Ah, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. I remember driving the 2022 model, and it felt like slipping into a pair of comfortable, sensible sneakers—cozy, but not exactly making a statement. But hold onto your latte. Recently I was sent the 2024 version and it’s a model that struts in with an attitude, a new face, and a few tricks up its sleeve.
So then what are the differences?
The 2022 Sonata Hybrid was like that friend who shows up to a BBQ in khakis and a polo—decent, respectable, but you wouldn’t call it a showstopper. Sure, it had a few nice lines, and the LED lights gave it some charm, but it played it safe.
Enter the 2024 Sonata Hybrid, with a front end that looks like it’s been hitting the gym. It’s got this sleek, more aggressive grille, and the headlights? Sharper than your cousin’s sarcastic jokes at Thanksgiving. The new rear lights and those angular creases make it look like it’s ready for a Hollywood premiere, rather than just the daily commute. It’s a facelift that says, “Look at me,” without completely ditching its Sonata roots.
Now, let’s talk about the inside, where Hyundai has really taken the time to impress. In the 2022 model, you had a solid infotainment setup, like a good ol’ reliable trucker radio. A split screen with all the essentials, but it was nothing to write home about.
But the 2024 Sonata Hybrid? It’s like they’ve taken that trusty radio and swapped it for a full DJ set. The whole dash is reworked, with a snazzy single-piece display that blends the instrument cluster and touchscreen into one smooth unit. It’s got the bells, the whistles, and a new layout that makes the 2022 look like yesterday’s leftovers. Better materials, more polished—like putting on a leather jacket instead of that old hoodie.
Under the hood, there’s no mad reinvention here. The 2024 is rocking the same 2.0L four-cylinder paired with an electric motor, just like its 2022 sibling. But hey, why mess with a good thing? It’s got the same smooth acceleration, the hybrid powertrain still makes fuel stops an occasional event, and it’s as quiet as your dog when it’s up to something. Hyundai might have tweaked the software here and there for a bit more mpg, but unless you’ve got a spreadsheet, you probably won’t notice.
Where you might notice some change, though, is in the tech that keeps you between the lines. The 2022 version came with Hyundai’s SmartSense package—lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, all that jazz. But the 2024 is like trading in your flip phone for the latest iPhone. Hyundai’s spruced up the sensors and cameras, so the adaptive cruise is smoother, and the lane-keeping doesn’t feel like it’s constantly second-guessing itself. It’s the same system, but with a bit more confidence.
If you’ve got the 2022 model, you’re not exactly left in the dust. But if you’re in the market for a hybrid that doesn’t just do the job but does it with style, then the 2024 Sonata Hybrid is worth a serious look. It’s taken that comfortable, competent vibe of the 2022 and thrown in a dash of style, a pinch of tech, and just enough upgrades to make you consider shelling out for the newer model. If the 2022 is your reliable, slightly boring old friend, the 2024 has become the version that’s learned a few new jokes and dresses a little sharper. And honestly, who doesn’t want a little more flair on the freeway?
Finally let’s compare the price tags of the 2022 and 2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited. Now, the 2022 model? It’s sitting there at around $35,000 to $36,000. A pretty decent price for a hybrid that looks good, sips fuel like a sensible tea drinker and comes with enough tech to keep you entertained on those long, monotonous commutes. Nothing too crazy.
But then, Hyundai rolls out the 2024 version with its sharper suit, fancier tech, and a design that looks like it wants to pick a fight with the future. And, surprise, surprise, the price tag’s taken a little hike. You’re looking at $37,000 to $38,500 to park this flashy new thing in your driveway. Yup, about $2,000 to $3,500 more than the old model.
What does that extra cash get you? A snazzier interior, some upgraded tech, and a front end that looks like it’s been taking design tips from a concept car. Is it worth it? Well, that depends on whether you’re the sort who likes to save a few bucks or if you prefer to spend a little more and have your hybrid turn a few heads in the Whole Foods parking lot. Either way, Hyundai’s making you pay for the glow-up.
The 2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited
MSRP: $38,600
MSRP (as tested): $38,810
Engine: 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder (Gas/Electric Hybrid) 192 horsepower @6000 rpm, 139 ft.- lb torque @ 5000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
Fuel Mileage (EPA): 44 city, 51 highway, 47 combined
Fuel Mileage (as tested, mixed conditions): 46 mpg
Base Curb Weight: 3,687 lbs.
Exterior Dimensions
Length: 193.3 in.
Overall width without mirrors: 73.2 in.
Height: 56.9 in.
Wheelbase: 111.8 in.
Ground clearance: 5.3 in.
Interior Dimensions
Front head room: 38.4 in.
Front leg room: 46.1 in.
Front shoulder room: 57.9 in.
Front hip room: 54.6 in.
Rear head room: 37.4 in.
Rear leg room: 34.8 in.
Rear shoulder room: 56.1 in.
Rear hip room: 54.4 in.
Cargo capacity, all seats in place: 15.6 cu.ft.
Warranty
Basic: 5 yr./ 60,000 mi.
Drivetrain: 10 yr./ 100,000 mi.
Hybrid component: 10 yr./ 100,000 mi.
Rust: 7 yr./ unlimited mi.
Roadside assistance: 5 yr./ unlimited mi.
Greg has been published in major publications across the country including the Los Angeles Times, the Cleveland Plain Dealer and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He was also a contributor to Chicken Soup for the NASCAR Soul, published in 2010, and the Christmas edition in 2016. He wrote as the NASCAR, Formula 1, Auto Reviews and National Veterans Affairs Examiner for Examiner.com and has appeared on Fox News. He holds a BS degree in communications, a Masters degree in psychology and is currently a PhD candidate majoring in psychology. He is currently the weekend Motorsports Editor for Autoweek.