The mid-sized sedan segment is loaded with several different models to choose from. Outside of trucks, this is the best selling segment of the auto industry. The first vehicles people think of in this segment are the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The Accord and Camry have been among the best selling and highest rated sedans on the market for years. Many Honda or Toyota drivers are loyal buyers; typically opting to buy a newer version of their sedan when they are ready for a new car. These vehicles offer a great mix of fuel efficiency and safety; while also providing enough space to comfortably seat a family of five on their next road trip. This combination of factors and their price range (from the lower $20’s to mid $30’s) offer a great value to a wide range of consumers.
Although Honda and Toyota have historically flown above the rest of the pack, they may not have such an easy time doing that moving forward. Several new sedans have filled the market over the past 10 years following the lead of these industry giants. Manufacturers have tried to “one-up” the Camry and Accord by offering different equipment packages or performance upgrades to stand out. Many of these attempts have come up short; but this fall we may have a new contender atop this segment. Surprisingly, this contender is the all-new 2018 Hyundai Sonata
The 2018 Sonata is a new model that builds upon the bland design of the 2015-2017 model. Hyundai has designed an all-new front and rear fascia for the Sonata to go along with an updated interior button layout, and plenty of standard equipment. The Sonata comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen display, which serves as the backup camera monitor and includes Apple Carplay and Android Auto, 16-inch alloy wheels, and Blind-Spot Detection! (In fact the 2018 Sonata is the only mid-sized sedan to offer Blind-Spot Detection as a standard feature) You also receive “America’s Best Warranty” with the Sonata which will allow you to have peace of mind for up to 100,000 miles without having to purchase an expensive extended warranty.
Available features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist System, and you can choose from 3 different powertrain options:
- 2.4L GDI Engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (Standard)
- 2.0L Turbo engine paired with a 8- speed automatic transmission (Available on Sport and Limited Models)
- 1.6L Turbo engine paired with a 7-speed “EcoShift” Dual Clutch transmission (Eco Model Only)
Hyundai is looking to change the way you think of family sedans with this new Sonata. Cnet.com has posted an article that goes into more detail about the 2018 Sonata. Check it out and go test drive one if you are in the market for a new vehicle. https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/auto/2018-hyundai-sonata/preview/