What is the Hyundai Sonata?
The Sonata is a mid-size, four-door family sedan that has been part of Hyundai’s range for decades. Its roomy layout and conventional boot make it a practical shape for everyday driving. Hyundai introduced the model in the 1980s, and it has continued through successive generations as the company expanded internationally.
The generations are Y2 (1989–1993), Y3 (1994–1998), EF (1999–2005), NF (2006–2010), YF (2011–2014), LF (2015–2019) and DN8 (2020–today). The Sonata’s styling and technology have changed over time; the LF generation included a plug-in hybrid, while the DN8 has a more expressive exterior and a curved display joining driver information and infotainment.
Engines and power
The Sonata’s engines and fuels have varied by market and generation. EU versions listed for 2010–2011 include diesel, petrol and other fuel types, with engines from 2.0 L to 3.3 L and power from 110 kW (150 PS) to 121 kW (165 PS). UK figures cover petrol and diesel engines from 2.0 L to 3.3 L. In the USA, listed versions include petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models with engines from 1.6 L to 3.3 L; Canada lists petrol and plug-in hybrid versions across the same engine-size span.
How economical is the Hyundai Sonata?
Official consumption varies by version and test procedure. The lowest listed UK figure is 6.1 L/100 km on NEDC. The USA’s lowest listed figure is 4.5 L/100 km under EPA testing, with a best combined rating of 52 MPG. Canada’s lowest listed figure is 5 L/100 km under the NRCan 5-cycle test. For plug-in hybrids, the lowest official weighted figure is 5.9 L/100 km in both the USA and Canada; it assumes that some driving is electric.
These results are not directly interchangeable: Europe uses WLTP or NEDC depending on the vehicle and year, the USA uses EPA procedures, and Canada uses its 5-cycle test. EU registration figures for 2010–2011 total 3,260. The most registered listed version was the 2.0 L diesel in 2010, with 2,474 registrations.
Where was the Hyundai Sonata sold?
The Sonata has appeared in figures for several markets: EU registrations for 2010–2011, UK versions for 2000–2009, US versions for 1989–2027 and Canadian versions for 1995–2026. The range of engines and fuel types has varied by country and model year.
Questions and answers
What type of car is the Hyundai Sonata?
It is a mid-size, four-door sedan offered across multiple generations.
Which Sonata generations are listed?
The generations are Y2, Y3, EF, NF, YF, LF and DN8, spanning 1989 to today.
Did the Sonata have hybrid versions?
Yes. The listed US lineup includes hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, and Canada lists plug-in hybrids.
Which market has the 52 MPG figure?
That is the best combined EPA rating listed for the USA.
