2017 Hyundai Sonata: What's Changed

CARS.COM

• Most significant changes: Base prices are significantly lower on Sport 2.0T and Eco models. Adaptive headlights are standard on Limited models.
• Price change: Hyundai has cut the base price by $600 on the Eco model and a whopping $2,325 on the Sport 2.0T. On other models, prices are up $300 on the base sedan and $200 on the SE. They’re unchanged on the Sport 2.4-liter, down $200 on the Limited 2.4 and up $275 on the Limited 2.0T.
• On sale: Late July
• Which should you buy, 2016 or 2017? 2016, except for Eco and Sport 2.0T, which are cheaper for 2017.

Related: What’s the Best Midsize Sedan for 2016?

Hyundai is struggling with the same market dynamics as other manufacturers: More people are buying SUVs, making sedans like the midsize Sonata harder to sell. Sonata sales are up in 2016, but that has been with the help of generous incentives.

For 2017, Hyundai has cut prices on some Sonata models, including knocking $2,325 off the Sport 2.0T trim, bringing it down to $27,435, including the destination charge. It also has streamlined equipment offerings, so most models have few or no options. For example, last year Premium and Tech packages were available on the Sport models; this year, only a Value Edition Package with fewer features is available.

For the Sonata hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, the only changes are a new standard audio system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Prices haven’t been announced for those models.

The Sonata was redesigned for 2015 but comes up bland and unfulfilling compared to the Honda Accord, Chevrolet Malibu, Mazda6, Nissan Altima and Volkswagen Passat. The current Sonata is quieter, more refined and has better ride quality than its predecessor, yet it lacks pizzazz both in appearance and performance.

The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder delivers lackluster acceleration, making the turbocharged 1.6-liter (used in the Eco trim) and 2.0-liter four-cylinders (optional in Sport and Limited) more entertaining. Ample passenger and cargo room give the Sonata good utility for a midsize sedan and Hyundai’s long warranties provide peace of mind without paying extra for an extended service contract.