Now in the fourth year of its current generation, the 2014 Hyundai Sonata is no longer an outsider trying to find a sliver of the market share. The Sonata is well established and holds its own in the crowded pack of family sedans like the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry and Mazda 6.
While not a newbie in 2014, the Sonata has been tweaked enough to stay fresh. The changes include: driver-selectable steering effort, a sport-tuned exhaust (SE 2.0T only), available xenon headlights and LED taillights (Limited only), a ventilated driver seat (Limited) an optional blind-spot monitoring system, an improved stability control system and two new touchscreens.
The interior styling has also been refreshed, and Hyundai has added sound muting to assist with the previously less than quiet ride, particularly on the freeway.
Key Takeaways
- Test car: Sonata Limited 2.0T with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, a six-speed automatic and 274 horsepower.
- Limited Technology package: a panoramic sunroof, xenon headlights, LED taillights, the 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation and a 12-speaker Infinity sound system.
- Trims: GLS, SE and Limited, plus a Sonata Hybrid.
- New for 2014: driver-selectable steering effort, an optional blind-spot monitoring system, an improved stability control system and two new touchscreens.
- Rivals named: Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry and Mazda 6.
- Power: The turbo-charged offering is plenty sufficient.
The Weekly Driver Test Drive
The 2014 Hyundai Sonata is available in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. There’s also a Sonata Hybrid.
Standard equipment on the GLS includes 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, heated mirrors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, a 60/40-split rear seatback, Hyundai‘s BlueLink telematics system, a trip computer, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an iPod/USB audio interface and an auxiliary audio jack.
Limited Trim and Options
The Sonata Limited starts with most of the SE’s standard and optional features, including the Premium package minus navigation.
The Limited also has 17-inch alloy wheels and a softer suspension. It also comes standard with full leather upholstery, a ventilated driver seat, heated rear seats, rear climate vents, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and upgrades accents.
My weekly driver was the Limited 2.0T, the same version I drove two years ago, the last time I test reviewed a Sonata. The turbo-charged edition adds the SE 2.0T’s 18-inch wheels, dual chrome exhaust tips and shift paddles.
The optional Limited Technology package has a panoramic sunroof, xenon headlights, LED taillights, the 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation and a 12-speaker Infinity sound
Powertrain and Driving Impressions
The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, with its six-speed automatic, generates 274 horsepower and is Hyundai’s answer those who might opt for a six-cylinder engine. The latter is not available. The turbo-charged offering is plenty sufficient. It’s quick off the line and has considerable pride and power when asked to change lanes or maneuver in demanding situations.
As a family sedan, four adults are comfortable, although the sloping roof does reduce backseat headroom
2014 Hyundai Sonata Verdict
Overall, it’s hard not to like the Sonata. From its swooping exterior reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz to its spacious and well-designed interior, it’s no wonder Hyundai stock in the increasingly competitive family sedan segment keep performing well.
Likes
Lots of trims and engine choices
Strong, balance handling.
Spacious trunk.
Overall comfort.
Long warranty.
Dislikes
Limited headroom due to sloping roofline
Facts & Figures: 2014 Hyundai Sonata
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 274 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 21 city / 31 highway / 24 combined mpg |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
James Raia
A sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004. In addition to founding this site in 2004, James writes a Sunday automotive column for The San Jose Mercury and East Bay Times in Walnut Creek, Calif., and monthly auto review and wellness columns for Gulfshore Business, a magazine in Southwest Florida. An author and contributor to many newspapers, magazines and online publications, co-hosted The Weekly Driver Podcast from 2017 to 2024.
It’s still a Hyundai….