Wow! I've never see anyone that can put out so much talking information without having to minse words and without taking a break to breath. Excelente rewiew and outstanding job.👏👏👏 Thank you 👍
sedans, plural as I count all of Genesis and Kia in this since they are all the same company. having said that you're right even of you just mean the Sonata.
@@frankmarzig1972 I won’t count Genesis because they don’t share the same nameplate or platform anymore. Genesis Motors was created in 2015 and is its stand-alone marque. I count Kia separate because again, different nameplate. Hyundai isn’t it’s parent company but simply owns a portion. The sonata, Elantra and accent have always been somewhat mediocre except for when it came to value.
@@MelloHubb reading comprehension is fundamental. I stated my reasoning as to why I counted each company exclusively. Genesis doesn't share any platform with Hyundai vehicles, Kia does however and I even stated Hyundai owns roughly 33% of Kia. Kia also owns bits and pieces of Hyundai. I count Kia separately because they operate under a different nameplate, and dish out different products in terms of exterior design, and interior fit and finish. So where was I wrong?
@@kyron2092 Correction... While the Hyundai "Motor Company" only owns roughly 33% of the Kia "Motor Company" its parent the Hyundai "Motor Group" own a majority of the rest of KIA... with the rest of the Hyundai 'chaebol' conglomerate subsidiaries owning most of the remaining shares... So the bottom line is Hyundai "Motor Group" owns and controls KIA as much as it does its other brands, such as like Genesis and the new IONIQ brand.... But ofc they are all different brands...
I'm torn. I like the style of the sonata better, and the digital gauges are really sweet - but I can't stand alcantara and no heated wheel is a deal breaker for me.
@@davids1816 Yeah it’s really weird how they chose to do the options, I’m kind of bummed that the N-line doesn’t get the smart park feature, while of course it’s a gimmick it might be cool to try out, and I presume it’s because of the different bumpers And the various sensors, but how hard would it have been to design the end line with that future. I really like the Sonata Limited’s caramel color leather, I’m not a huge fan of Black seats.
@@nicholasbabeaux2052 Hyundai has a weird totem pole , n line is actually bottom , It goes base, n line , hybrid , tech/premium pack, full n . From my understanding
I got my Sonata N-Line (Stormy Sea color) a little over a week ago, and traded my 2013 Sonata limited in. Also got the front and rear windows tinted, looks sweet. I tested in Sport mode about 3 times (I had to test it out in Sport, though I'm not gonna go too crazy as I wanna break the engine in) and boy does it hold the rpm's very well and it just takes off. When I was picking up dinner about 3 days ago, I was heading back to my car and this guy is sitting in his car parked behind me and he asks, "What year is that Sonata?" Told him 2021 and he asked if he could see the inside and I said sure. I showed him the inside and explained what the N-Line is and he was very impressed. I think he said he was a BMW/Mercedes guy but he also said he was a fan of Hyundai and I told him Hyundai hired Albert Brierman (I know I'm spelling his last name wrong) from BMW who was at the helm of BMW's M division for 20 years and what we are seeing with Hyundai's performance cars is a result of his hiring. The guy told me he was going to check out the N-Line at a dealership. I feel planted in this car and with the Pirelli P Zero All Season tires, I don't have an issue with them as well. I feel like I'm getting the grip I need on the road and even with the massive snow storm we just had here in New Jersey, I did not have one problem getting to and from work driving this car. Massive infotainment screen. Bose system. Comfortable sporty seats. Panoramic sunroof. Digital gauges. Wireless charging. On and on it goes. I love the inside too, and the interior ambient lighting being able to suit the color of it to your own makes it that much better.
Just bought the N-Line in Glowing Yellow, and totally love it. I must say, coming from a catless BRZ on coils, I find the ride quality cabin noise to be absolutely amazing 😂
Well it is a catfish so. I would probably get it in black too cause the front end is a lot uglier then the K5 GT. I like the back end of this better tho.
When I love all the lines of a car, I get a bright color; When I find something in the design undesirable, I get black. For me, the back end could use a little hiding, and black matches that huge grille :)
Yeah I didn't like it 2yrs ago, had forgot about it as there are not many around in Australia. But saw it again a week ago and love it. I prefer it to the latest 24 styling, which looks nice, but I prefer traditional look lights to a straight light bar. So ordered a NY23, picking up in a few days.
Best review of current 2021 best in class midsize sedans I have seen so far! Thank you for the video. Well done! Just bought my first ever sedan, the 2021 Sonata N line in white. I love all the contrast. I was stuck between the Kia K5 and Accord touring, but the Sonata looks have grown on me and the interior is my favorite of the three. It is missing a few features, like you mentioned in the video, but it also has really cool features that the others do not have like the ambient lighting and digital dash (much better than the k5 cluster imo). Thought I wanted leather seats until I saw the Sonata's seats in person. The seats look and feel great! Nonetheless, each car makes a sacrifice somewhere and all are great options for the price range but Hyundai was offering 0% financing and 3 month payment deferral. Add in the amazing warranty and 3 year complimentary service, sirusxm, and hyundai blue link, the Sonata was the car for me! Wont see many others like it since it is unique and that is a bonus to me!
I am a new owner of the 2021 sonata n line in black. Super excited, car is arriving in a week. I love the front grill specially in comparison to Honda accord idk what this guy is talking about. This car is a beast!
@@zingwilder9989 Mann I am fuckin loving it. I'm trying to patiently breaking in, waiting for that 1000 km so I can try sports +. And got a full ultimate 7 yr warranty so it's blessed. Love the nocturne gray.
Just ordered a MY23, picking up in days, in white finish, wanted Hampton Grey but couldn't find one locally. How's the car after owning it for a while? What's your city only driving fuel use like? That will be my daily driving style, city local traffic in work days. Can I please confirm if the sat nav, screen functions, and stereo can be operated whilst driving. With the Mazda 6 GT, I have it locks you out. You can use the rotary dial, which I'll miss, but not the entertainment system that's so dated.
I love the front end as well, so many haters out there. I do, however, like the MY24 rear end a little more, I may have to blacken out the rear boot strip.
I watched this video over a year ago and it popped up on my feed today. At the moment I'm 18 months and about 26,000 miles in with mine. I set out to look at a K5 GT but there was none to be found. Mine came on the P Zero All Seasons, which I remedied after a few weeks with the Michelin PS4S. I certainly didn't buy it to go racing. I wanted a midsize daily driver with some fun to it. I've driven it 500 miles in a day and averaged 35mpg - mostly highway 80mph. And carrying a small 3 ton floor jack and a full size spare. FYI for those who have one, you can fit a full size spare in the trunk. Test fit on the front to be sure it clears the brakes, but pretty much any 18-in wheel from a 2011 forward Sonata or Optima should make a perfect spare. I have an 18in from a 2015 Sonata with a 235/45R18 tire. Clears the brakes and fits in the spare tire well perfectly. It's faster than it has any business being. It certainly surprised the hell out of me the first time I walked a Charger RT.
Getting my N Line Sonata tomorrow; simply been waiting for over a year for it to come out. Coming from a 2013 Sonata Limited....anxious to get my hands on this one. (Also in Dallas, TX).
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata has a problem where the engine seizes without warning. The average repair cost is about $5,000 and the average mileage at the time of seizing is around 90,000 miles. A class action lawsuit in 2015 found the 2.4-liter engine to be defective.
Thank You! The first review dealing with wheel spin and the lack of either AWD or a LSD, "That does make this a hoot and a half to drive..." Finally somebody who kind of gets this car. It is NOT a basic sedan trying to be a performance car, it is a performance car stripped down to a daily driving sedan. Cheers!
In Canadian N-line, we get headup display,heated frnt rear seats along with heated steering wheel and the price is 4K cheaper than the Honda accord 2.0 touring. And the Sonata design has started growing on me...
A couple months ago I got a 2021 Sonata Limited and I want that engine upgrade but dont know if I wanna give up some of my creature comforts but none the less people if you have not been a Hyundai or Kia product in the past 5 or 6 years please don't hate on them BEFORE you test drive not to mention the best car warranty in the game. Great job Alex
You should upgrade. At least you’ll still have a panoramic sunroof, all the safety features except the blind view camera, wireless charging etc, and built in Navi.
Don’t think I’ve replied to this video but appreciate your in-depth analysis as always. I sold my Infiniti and signed a lease on a ‘23 N-Line (in “refrigerator white”; I wanted the “Glowing Yellow” gold color but it’s discontinued for ‘23 😡). Because the market is so crazy, I didn’t want another luxury marque for now, although hoping to lease a G80 Sport, but this Sonata N-Line is a very nice and capable in-between before I do - absolutely loving it! Went to check out the K5GT and it’s ok but the markups were horrendous to ~$50k with egregious lease quotes; I ended up with the N-Line at sticker w/a *very* reasonable 3yr lease. - Hyundai’s done a remarkable job, especially as Germanic as it feels in a lot of regards.
Thanks Alex, I was waiting for this review......i am really liking this Sonata.......probably the only thing it needs is the lsd from the Veloster N.........OR maybe not............wheel spin is fun!
I got my 2021 Limited last week. The torque pull is much better than I imagined! I can imagine the torque and HP coming out of the N Line! Limited is enough for me, plus I love the technology features that I would not the N Line. Great Car all around!
It's 2021 now, only the Korean manufacturers are applying newest electronics tech in their mid level vehicles. Most Japanese brands have electronics as if they are manufactured 10 years ago.
Agreed, just selling my 2015 Mazda 6 GT, always wanted to get a newer Mazda 6 GT Turbo, but even the 23 mazda 6 has the exact same screen entertainment Sat nav system, so behind with the times....
Alex, when manufacturers put together vehicle programs, they seek to meet particular target pricing for all models. At the top end, sometimes this means omitting features to meet the desired target price. I suspect that's the case here (and with Toyota). In exchange for the "go-fast" bits, they omit some other goodies in order to meet target cost and retail pricing goals.
Of course, but that doesn't mean they couldn't offer the features as part of a package. If you look at the Palisade for instance it lacked a few features at launch but they quickly put together a package to round out the top-end offering.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide That's true, Alex. But as I believe you pointed out in a video a couple of years back adding options to a vehicle can complicate the entire production process and has an impact not only for the vehicles that have the option but for those that don't simply because complicating the production process adds costs. It's an especially obvious impact in European brands with pages and pages of options that can be added/deleted to customize a particular vehicle. KIA and Hyundai achieve their MSRP advantage compared to European manufacturers by providing very, very few individual options at a particular trim level and package a large number of options as one moves up from one trim level to another. Further, there is nothing that dealers hate more than having two almost identical vehicles sitting on the lot with a window sticker difference that results from adding an option or two that fewer consumers want. It usually turns out that the more expensive vehicle is discounted to move it off the lot. It does appear, however, that KIA at least has made their MSRP pricing somewhat more complex in the last year or so. Rather than a single trim ladder where individual options are bundled in huge packages defined by trim levels, they appear to have adopted a dual ladder approach, one ladder that moves up in terms of bells and whistles and the other that adds performance features. The two ladders then culminate in top trim that incorporates all (or almost) all of the features from each trim ladder.
Pick my red one up this week. We here in Australia get everything the limited has got on the N line because we only get the N line this time for some reason. I can't wait because the test drive was awesome.
0-60 times on this model are traction limited, other tests were probably in colder climate (throttle house is in Canada afaik), Alex is in California that's probably why his 0-60 time was quicker in comparison, warmer = more grip.
@@bradleyscarreviews In the rolling race the Accord was slower than the Sonata, so it had less power, Sonata just lost too much traction from a standstill.
And the Veloster N go 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds with the DCT. I can't wait for the next generation Veloster N to receive the upcoming 2.3l turbo 4 engine with the 7k redline.
A huge change with these 2021 Hyundai and Kias are the new 2.5 turbo and non turbo engines now have Multi-Port Injection as well which solves the issue of carbon build up and burning through oil (eventually setting fire to the engine) that older models had. This is huge and makes these cars much more reliable. I'm not sure what other brand still has Port Injection besides Toyota. That's a huge reason Toyota's are still super reliable.
@@JT-fq2bl yeah but they don't make sedans like this in the US anymore, only SUVs and trucks. Also how is their reliability? Older models haven't been the best
The K5 AWD seems like a better driving choice, despite the smaller engine. A refreshed Stinger is coming for 2022, with the same 2.5T, as well as the 3.3T. Seems like a RWD Stinger will be the best choice, especially in the lower affordable trims. It's going to be more fun to drive as well as a comfortable cruiser.
I'd love to drive the N-Line. I have a 2019 Accord 2.0 and would be interested to see the differences once behind the wheel. I love my Accord and won't be trading it in anytime soon but I must admit the Sonata N-Line is intriguing.
I just bought a Legacy Touring XT. While its a little slower, the AWD definitely helps when I do punch it. Plus the ride is quiet and smooth. So yeah, may not be the handler the N Line is, but its a better highway cruiser for sure.
What I have learned after looking at all these "sport" sedans like Mazda 6 turbo, Sonata N, K5 GT is that you need to either make it AWD or have LSD to compensate for how much power it's delivering.
First one to add an electric motor to the rear wheels of these front drive performance sedans wins. GM did it for the front wheels on the E-Ray and it's awesome!
@@lttsr 4.3 is the fastest i've seen which is .7 - .85 seconds (almost one second) faster than the Sonata N Line. ua-cam.com/video/JCtFatTgzKs/v-deo.html In this video, the 0-60 time isn't given, but the quarter mile time was 12.83 which probably requires a 0-60 in the 4.3 range or a very high trap speed, but the trap speed was only about 106 mph, which indicates the 0-60 was probably even quicker than 4.3 seconds. Car and Driver had the Sonata as low as 5.0 seconds from 0-60, but still took 13.6 seconds to reach the quarter mile with the similar trap speed of 105 mph...
@@OlJackBurton using regular launch control my stinger GT does 4.5 0-60 n 12.8 at 108.5 in the 1/4. Using parking break launch 4.2 0-60 n 12.55 at same 108-109ish in the 1/4.
I have this exact same car it's a wonderful car . I bought it 2 days ago . But need to return to fix my back left window it jumps and gets stuck . But other then that it's an amazing the performance and handling is super nice
Fantastic review! I have seen them all on YT and this is the best by far. I have leased Hyundai Sonata limited cars since my motorcycle accident March 2010. Bought my first one and then traded it in on a leased turbo one year later. A black 2021 N-Line will be my 5th Sonata. I look forward to the additional power. We are having hand controls installed Tuesday June 1st, and cant wait! Both KIA and Hyundai have an adaptive mobility program that provides up to $1000 rebate on having the car modified for a paraplegic like myself. Each Sonata has been better than the last. Even though the steering warmer and memory seating is gone in the N-Line. Perhaps I will end the lease early in 1 or 2 years, depending on what comes next. Almost switched to KIA, but the last K5 GT in St. Louis MO was sold before I could sign on the dotted line. I should have jumped on it. K5 is much better looking IMO.
Missing the 200s. Sport suspension, sport seats, aluminum paddles, 60% of torque going to the rear wheels in sport mode via the awd. Also, fusion sport was a BEAST!
lol the sonata n line beat the fusion sport in 0-60. Face the facts. This sonata has sport suspension, and sport seats. The 0-60’is much faster than the 200 without launch control.
Just paid off my 2011 2.0t limited sonata I bought in 2016 and probably going to look for a used N line in a year or two to replace it. Hopefully in that yellow color
@@dougn2350 you’re right, what I’m seeing out here in Florida proves what you say. The vast majority of new Sonatas on the street, which there are a lot, are the lower trim-level ones.
Excellent video, best by far of the four or five long-format videos I've seen on the Sonata N-Line. What made it the best? Time spent in all the right places, for the correct length of time. Many of the videos I watched spent too much time on the exterior, or interior, or features, and not enough on performance or handling (or they were young kids giggling uncontrollably whenever the gas was floored). This one was perfectly balanced across all subjects, including contrasting and comparing with other brands. The technical understanding and driving skill was also beyond that of the other videographers. I pick up my new Sonata N-Line tomorrow after never having driven one (there are none in my area available to test drive), but my sense is that this video has me well prepared as to what to expect, and I'm looking forward to it more than ever. I've been an Acura guy for many years, with a BMW and an Audi stuck in there. More than any other, I've loved my Acuras. I'm changing brands here because my beloved 2015 Acura TLX broke a rod and needed a new engine. I needed a new car quickly, and wasn't planning on buying a new car just yet, so I wanted something reasonably priced, but fun and practical. Last weekend I rented a Kia K5 base model, and was so impressed I started looking at the K5 GT and the Sonata N-Line. Between the two, the N-Line turned out the better deal and was more immediately available, so I bought one. Looking forward to roasting those front tires - thanks, Alex!
In Canada, we get the K5 GT in one trim only, fully loaded, including an LCD instrument cluster, heads up display and a heated windshield. I have one coming in July and my first mod will be some stickier summer tires instead of those P zero all seasons.
I prefer the more chiseled look of the K5.. however the Sonata's is still nice.. Both of them no an LSD option even if it meant giving up half the power train warranty.. we need a N-line performance decision that sell those performance parts
@AlexOnAutos as an owner of a 2.0T Accord I can assure you it doesn’t run out of steam at 50/60MPH…as it’s bone-stock 1/4 mile E.T. at 14.2s @102MPH prove
How's the car been 2 years on? What's the wheel spin like in everyday normal mode, is it still there or only in the sports modes? What's only city local traffic fuel use like? What's the overall drive, ownership been like?
@@The-Wise-One Me personally, I haven't had any problems with the vehicle. No wheel spin under normal everyday driving. Unless you have a natural heavy gas foot (from a dead stop) like people who drive mustangs or cameros, you shouldn't have an issue. Even in sport mode it's all dependent on how much gas you're giving it from a dead stop. I can only comment on the highway and interstate fuel mpg as that's mostly my driving. I get about 35mpg on average. Overall the car handles well and the power is definitely there whenever you need it. The shifting is very smooth and quick with the DCT. Don't bother trying to race anyone from a dead stop, you'll spin the tires for days.
@@jdubdoubleu thanks.. I've got one ordered, should arrive in days. Not looking to race, sounds like just need to be gentle of acceleration when taking of from a stand still. Surely it does not spin every time? There are so many haters out there, it's incredible.
That huge gloss black gear button selector and the steering wheel is an abomination lol If it were up to me I'd take the Sonata but with the K5 steering wheel and gear selector.
I guess the Charger is classed as a full-size sedan? Don't really get why there's such a claimed difference between the two categories, compact sedans are very obviously smaller, but midsize and fullsize seem to be pretty darn close
I would get the 2022 Stinger top trim with heads up first and if I was limited in financial resources I would definitely take the K5 for its looks alone over the Sonata.
With a lighter full N version, possible to take out any RWD on the twisties. e.g Type-R. However, might not be possible to get a midship to be light enough on its feet.
I am wondering if there will be a detailed comparison video between Sonata N-line and KIA K5 GT. I understand they are similar in many ways, but there are little things that could turn people on/off which people might want to know before making the decision to purchase one of these vehicles. Thanks
@@bradleyscarreviews Yeah I saw that :) it's unusual for him to do that, but I think a side-by-side comparison still would be a great content for the consumers.
I think if you view Alex' K5 GT and Sonata N-Line reviews back-to-back (as I've just done) you'll get the detailed comparisons you're looking for as well as more details about each model than would be possible in a single video. I strongly suspect that the reason that he didn't combine the reviews into a single comparison video is that he didn't have the two vehicles at the same time. The Sonata was available about a week before the KIA according to his comments.
Loved this car for many months/ now waiting with berated breath for it to be available in Australia 🇦🇺 hopefully at the end of March/ as it’s early March now.🤞
@@bradleyscarreviews question bro, are you working for Kia or Hyundai. Cuz you always on all my comments. Or you just think Kia or Hyundai is the best car manufacturers.
Can always rely on Alex to call out that rear turn signals aren't amber. Akin to the trunk comfort index. Maybe a shirt idea about amber turn signals???
It's strange that there are now Kia, Hyundai and Genesis. Kia and Hyundai competes with one another quite a lot and they share a lot of components as well. Hyundai is suppose to be a bit more upscale than Kia but I don't know why they have decided to now have 3 different makes.
I can't deal with this exterior redesign! The previous model, much better looking. Kia K5, much better looking. Hyundai Elantra N, much better looking. I hope it works out?
Saw an N line Sonata down the road today. Looks meaner than my Audi!
Wow! I've never see anyone that can put out so much talking information without having to minse words and without taking a break to breath.
Excelente rewiew and outstanding job.👏👏👏
Thank you 👍
Hyundai finally created a desirable sedan. I'm slowly falling in love it lol
sedans, plural as I count all of Genesis and Kia in this since they are all the same company. having said that you're right even of you just mean the Sonata.
@@frankmarzig1972 I won’t count Genesis because they don’t share the same nameplate or platform anymore. Genesis Motors was created in 2015 and is its stand-alone marque. I count Kia separate because again, different nameplate. Hyundai isn’t it’s parent company but simply owns a portion. The sonata, Elantra and accent have always been somewhat mediocre except for when it came to value.
@@kyron2092 you're actually wrong there. They all fall under hyundai motor group and share some of the same things.
@@MelloHubb reading comprehension is fundamental. I stated my reasoning as to why I counted each company exclusively. Genesis doesn't share any platform with Hyundai vehicles, Kia does however and I even stated Hyundai owns roughly 33% of Kia. Kia also owns bits and pieces of Hyundai. I count Kia separately because they operate under a different nameplate, and dish out different products in terms of exterior design, and interior fit and finish. So where was I wrong?
@@kyron2092 Correction... While the Hyundai "Motor Company" only owns roughly 33% of the Kia "Motor Company" its parent the Hyundai "Motor Group" own a majority of the rest of KIA... with the rest of the Hyundai 'chaebol' conglomerate subsidiaries owning most of the remaining shares...
So the bottom line is Hyundai "Motor Group" owns and controls KIA as much as it does its other brands, such as like Genesis and the new IONIQ brand....
But ofc they are all different brands...
The ventilated seats are a big win for the K5 here in Dallas TX. I lean that way.
That weird fake leather is gonna suck in areas such as SoCal so looks like they really had to to counterbalance.
@@SoCalBIGmike Real leather sucks in hot weather. How is it any better than fake leather in that regard?
The limited sonata has cooled seats
@@chrish8229 Yep, we have a 2016 Limited with the cooled seats as does my 2017 Optima SXL
These things are such a great bargain, loaded every option for under 34k with a 10 year 100k mile warranty!!
I'm torn. I like the style of the sonata better, and the digital gauges are really sweet - but I can't stand alcantara and no heated wheel is a deal breaker for me.
@@davids1816 Yeah it’s really weird how they chose to do the options, I’m kind of bummed that the N-line doesn’t get the smart park feature, while of course it’s a gimmick it might be cool to try out, and I presume it’s because of the different bumpers And the various sensors, but how hard would it have been to design the end line with that future. I really like the Sonata Limited’s caramel color leather, I’m not a huge fan of Black seats.
@@nicholasbabeaux2052 i think they don't offer it because it will compete with their Genesis model, the base G70.
@@GAATL_Viet totally it's a very fine line, but the smart park is available on the Sonata Limited of course
@@nicholasbabeaux2052 Hyundai has a weird totem pole , n line is actually bottom ,
It goes base, n line , hybrid , tech/premium pack, full n .
From my understanding
I work as a tech at a Hyundai dealer, just took delivery of my 2021 red N-Line. I love it!
Did you get employee discount?
I got my Sonata N-Line (Stormy Sea color) a little over a week ago, and traded my 2013 Sonata limited in. Also got the front and rear windows tinted, looks sweet. I tested in Sport mode about 3 times (I had to test it out in Sport, though I'm not gonna go too crazy as I wanna break the engine in) and boy does it hold the rpm's very well and it just takes off. When I was picking up dinner about 3 days ago, I was heading back to my car and this guy is sitting in his car parked behind me and he asks, "What year is that Sonata?" Told him 2021 and he asked if he could see the inside and I said sure. I showed him the inside and explained what the N-Line is and he was very impressed. I think he said he was a BMW/Mercedes guy but he also said he was a fan of Hyundai and I told him Hyundai hired Albert Brierman (I know I'm spelling his last name wrong) from BMW who was at the helm of BMW's M division for 20 years and what we are seeing with Hyundai's performance cars is a result of his hiring. The guy told me he was going to check out the N-Line at a dealership.
I feel planted in this car and with the Pirelli P Zero All Season tires, I don't have an issue with them as well. I feel like I'm getting the grip I need on the road and even with the massive snow storm we just had here in New Jersey, I did not have one problem getting to and from work driving this car.
Massive infotainment screen. Bose system. Comfortable sporty seats. Panoramic sunroof. Digital gauges. Wireless charging. On and on it goes. I love the inside too, and the interior ambient lighting being able to suit the color of it to your own makes it that much better.
thank you for this. love the perspective of a car owner. how long do you plan on keeping it?
@@twystedhumour I keep my cars for years. I plan on keeping it for a long time.
@@askme2985 can you do a 0-60, because people keep on saying that these numbers are fake.
@@askme2985 I know they aren’t though of course.
The gauge cluster has improved. Even having launch control. 😀
Just bought the N-Line in Glowing Yellow, and totally love it. I must say, coming from a catless BRZ on coils, I find the ride quality cabin noise to be absolutely amazing 😂
Lucky guy
I love how much mechanical knowledge this dude has compared to other reviewers.
I am getting mine in black. Looks so much better in black.
Well it is a catfish so. I would probably get it in black too cause the front end is a lot uglier then the K5 GT. I like the back end of this better tho.
the black definitely pops the best out of all of them
When I love all the lines of a car, I get a bright color;
When I find something in the design undesirable, I get black.
For me, the back end could use a little hiding, and black matches that huge grille :)
Possibly the best car review I've ever seen
The design is starting to grow on me now
Same. The car overall really grew on me after I just had a rental Sonata. Really liked it, and it was the base model.
There’s a yellow one near me, and it is absolutely beautiful
Yep I still love my Mazda 6 but the N-line bumper looks really good. Performance is also very impressive compared to the Accord 2.0t and Camry V6
Yeah I didn't like it 2yrs ago, had forgot about it as there are not many around in Australia. But saw it again a week ago and love it. I prefer it to the latest 24 styling, which looks nice, but I prefer traditional look lights to a straight light bar. So ordered a NY23, picking up in a few days.
Best review of current 2021 best in class midsize sedans I have seen so far! Thank you for the video. Well done! Just bought my first ever sedan, the 2021 Sonata N line in white. I love all the contrast. I was stuck between the Kia K5 and Accord touring, but the Sonata looks have grown on me and the interior is my favorite of the three. It is missing a few features, like you mentioned in the video, but it also has really cool features that the others do not have like the ambient lighting and digital dash (much better than the k5 cluster imo). Thought I wanted leather seats until I saw the Sonata's seats in person. The seats look and feel great! Nonetheless, each car makes a sacrifice somewhere and all are great options for the price range but Hyundai was offering 0% financing and 3 month payment deferral. Add in the amazing warranty and 3 year complimentary service, sirusxm, and hyundai blue link, the Sonata was the car for me! Wont see many others like it since it is unique and that is a bonus to me!
I am a new owner of the 2021 sonata n line in black. Super excited, car is arriving in a week. I love the front grill specially in comparison to Honda accord idk what this guy is talking about. This car is a beast!
@@zingwilder9989 Mann I am fuckin loving it. I'm trying to patiently breaking in, waiting for that 1000 km so I can try sports +. And got a full ultimate 7 yr warranty so it's blessed. Love the nocturne gray.
Just ordered a MY23, picking up in days, in white finish, wanted Hampton Grey but couldn't find one locally. How's the car after owning it for a while? What's your city only driving fuel use like? That will be my daily driving style, city local traffic in work days.
Can I please confirm if the sat nav, screen functions, and stereo can be operated whilst driving. With the Mazda 6 GT, I have it locks you out. You can use the rotary dial, which I'll miss, but not the entertainment system that's so dated.
I love the front end as well, so many haters out there. I do, however, like the MY24 rear end a little more, I may have to blacken out the rear boot strip.
I watched this video over a year ago and it popped up on my feed today. At the moment I'm 18 months and about 26,000 miles in with mine. I set out to look at a K5 GT but there was none to be found. Mine came on the P Zero All Seasons, which I remedied after a few weeks with the Michelin PS4S. I certainly didn't buy it to go racing. I wanted a midsize daily driver with some fun to it. I've driven it 500 miles in a day and averaged 35mpg - mostly highway 80mph. And carrying a small 3 ton floor jack and a full size spare. FYI for those who have one, you can fit a full size spare in the trunk. Test fit on the front to be sure it clears the brakes, but pretty much any 18-in wheel from a 2011 forward Sonata or Optima should make a perfect spare. I have an 18in from a 2015 Sonata with a 235/45R18 tire. Clears the brakes and fits in the spare tire well perfectly.
It's faster than it has any business being. It certainly surprised the hell out of me the first time I walked a Charger RT.
Getting my N Line Sonata tomorrow; simply been waiting for over a year for it to come out. Coming from a 2013 Sonata Limited....anxious to get my hands on this one. (Also in Dallas, TX).
What color?
congrats.
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata has a problem where the engine seizes without warning. The average repair cost is about $5,000 and the average mileage at the time of seizing is around 90,000 miles. A class action lawsuit in 2015 found the 2.4-liter engine to be defective.
@@asfdafasdfwfrg4168 so what’s your point?
@@asfdafasdfwfrg4168 thats why a bought the 2012.no problems with mine..120000 miles now
Thank You! The first review dealing with wheel spin and the lack of either AWD or a LSD, "That does make this a hoot and a half to drive..." Finally somebody who kind of gets this car. It is NOT a basic sedan trying to be a performance car, it is a performance car stripped down to a daily driving sedan. Cheers!
In Canadian N-line, we get headup display,heated frnt rear seats along with heated steering wheel and the price is 4K cheaper than the Honda accord 2.0 touring. And the Sonata design has started growing on me...
And we get the premium headlights too
Alex, Catfishy? No way! This is a torque-steering Sturgeon.
Love this car. Go mid-sized sedans!
A couple months ago I got a 2021 Sonata Limited and I want that engine upgrade but dont know if I wanna give up some of my creature comforts but none the less people if you have not been a Hyundai or Kia product in the past 5 or 6 years please don't hate on them BEFORE you test drive not to mention the best car warranty in the game. Great job Alex
You should upgrade. At least you’ll still have a panoramic sunroof, all the safety features except the blind view camera, wireless charging etc, and built in Navi.
@@bradleyscarreviews yea I'm really considering it thx
@@dredawg679 ur welcome! Make 0-60 vids also. Ima subscribe so I get a notification
@@bradleyscarreviews that sound like a good idea 😁😁
@@dredawg679 I’m from the carribean so I like to speed😏.
Don’t think I’ve replied to this video but appreciate your in-depth analysis as always. I sold my Infiniti and signed a lease on a ‘23 N-Line (in “refrigerator white”; I wanted the “Glowing Yellow” gold color but it’s discontinued for ‘23 😡). Because the market is so crazy, I didn’t want another luxury marque for now, although hoping to lease a G80 Sport, but this Sonata N-Line is a very nice and capable in-between before I do - absolutely loving it! Went to check out the K5GT and it’s ok but the markups were horrendous to ~$50k with egregious lease quotes; I ended up with the N-Line at sticker w/a *very* reasonable 3yr lease. - Hyundai’s done a remarkable job, especially as Germanic as it feels in a lot of regards.
I’m super happy with my 20 Sonata Limited
Thanks Alex, I was waiting for this review......i am really liking this Sonata.......probably the only thing it needs is the lsd from the Veloster N.........OR maybe not............wheel spin is fun!
I've been really loving a lot of things coming from Korea lately!
Built in Alabama, I think.
Try kimchi. You will be hooked for life lol.
I got my 2021 Limited last week. The torque pull is much better than I imagined! I can imagine the torque and HP coming out of the N Line! Limited is enough for me, plus I love the technology features that I would not the N Line.
Great Car all around!
Color?
@@dougn2350 Quartz White w/ black interior
It's 2021 now, only the Korean manufacturers are applying newest electronics tech in their mid level vehicles.
Most Japanese brands have electronics as if they are manufactured 10 years ago.
Agreed, just selling my 2015 Mazda 6 GT, always wanted to get a newer Mazda 6 GT Turbo, but even the 23 mazda 6 has the exact same screen entertainment Sat nav system, so behind with the times....
Alex, when manufacturers put together vehicle programs, they seek to meet particular target pricing for all models. At the top end, sometimes this means omitting features to meet the desired target price. I suspect that's the case here (and with Toyota). In exchange for the "go-fast" bits, they omit some other goodies in order to meet target cost and retail pricing goals.
Of course, but that doesn't mean they couldn't offer the features as part of a package. If you look at the Palisade for instance it lacked a few features at launch but they quickly put together a package to round out the top-end offering.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide That's true, Alex. But as I believe you pointed out in a video a couple of years back adding options to a vehicle can complicate the entire production process and has an impact not only for the vehicles that have the option but for those that don't simply because complicating the production process adds costs. It's an especially obvious impact in European brands with pages and pages of options that can be added/deleted to customize a particular vehicle.
KIA and Hyundai achieve their MSRP advantage compared to European manufacturers by providing very, very few individual options at a particular trim level and package a large number of options as one moves up from one trim level to another. Further, there is nothing that dealers hate more than having two almost identical vehicles sitting on the lot with a window sticker difference that results from adding an option or two that fewer consumers want. It usually turns out that the more expensive vehicle is discounted to move it off the lot.
It does appear, however, that KIA at least has made their MSRP pricing somewhat more complex in the last year or so. Rather than a single trim ladder where individual options are bundled in huge packages defined by trim levels, they appear to have adopted a dual ladder approach, one ladder that moves up in terms of bells and whistles and the other that adds performance features. The two ladders then culminate in top trim that incorporates all (or almost) all of the features from each trim ladder.
Pick my red one up this week.
We here in Australia get everything the limited has got on the N line because we only get the N line this time for some reason. I can't wait because the test drive was awesome.
Alex the 2022 stinger will be getting the same engine as sonata and discontinuing the base 2.0 liter
Wow 5.1 secs 0-60! Quite faster then the accord 2.0t! That throttle house drag race make me think it was misleading
0-60 times on this model are traction limited, other tests were probably in colder climate (throttle house is in Canada afaik), Alex is in California that's probably why his 0-60 time was quicker in comparison, warmer = more grip.
Tires I'm sure are a factor Canada vs here, **but** we will be re-testing the Accord to see if Honda has tweaked anything.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide I have a feeling Honda sent them a tuned accord hahahalmao
@@bradleyscarreviews In the rolling race the Accord was slower than the Sonata, so it had less power, Sonata just lost too much traction from a standstill.
They were also on winter tires
I love your detailed analysis of all these cars snd their competition great job keep up the good work
0-60 in 5.1sec?! in a Sonata?! That's crazy to think about. That's less than a second difference to Porsches a couple years ago.
The Sonata have more HP then the Accord 2.0T yet it slower? That's unacceptable so as the Camry V6. LOL
@@tousshong9438 what do you mean? The accord gets 5.5-5.7 0-60 lmao
Yeah, my bad. This Sonata is quicker .
And the Veloster N go 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds with the DCT. I can't wait for the next generation Veloster N to receive the upcoming 2.3l turbo 4 engine with the 7k redline.
@@JT-fq2bl there will be a 2.3l? Where did you get that info?
Am buying this soon
A huge change with these 2021 Hyundai and Kias are the new 2.5 turbo and non turbo engines now have Multi-Port Injection as well which solves the issue of carbon build up and burning through oil (eventually setting fire to the engine) that older models had. This is huge and makes these cars much more reliable. I'm not sure what other brand still has Port Injection besides Toyota. That's a huge reason Toyota's are still super reliable.
Ford.
@@JT-fq2bl yeah but they don't make sedans like this in the US anymore, only SUVs and trucks. Also how is their reliability? Older models haven't been the best
Reliability doesn’t really matter to most people who are buying/leasing new cars these days since most of them won’t keep them long term
@@kristians2704 leasing yeah but a lot of people keep their cars long term if they buy them used
@@brett2396 yeah if you’re looking at used cars then reliability is imoprtant but this is a review of a NEW car.
The K5 AWD seems like a better driving choice, despite the smaller engine.
A refreshed Stinger is coming for 2022, with the same 2.5T, as well as the 3.3T. Seems like a RWD Stinger will be the best choice, especially in the lower affordable trims. It's going to be more fun to drive as well as a comfortable cruiser.
The refreshed 2022 Stinger should be very interesting... if they dont get too radical with the styling like the Elantra and Tucson
This is my everyday vehicle to afford Alex.
I'd love to drive the N-Line. I have a 2019 Accord 2.0 and would be interested to see the differences once behind the wheel. I love my Accord and won't be trading it in anytime soon but I must admit the Sonata N-Line is intriguing.
had a chance to drive it today, surprisingly it was pretty fast
I just bought a Legacy Touring XT. While its a little slower, the AWD definitely helps when I do punch it. Plus the ride is quiet and smooth. So yeah, may not be the handler the N Line is, but its a better highway cruiser for sure.
What I have learned after looking at all these "sport" sedans like Mazda 6 turbo, Sonata N, K5 GT is that you need to either make it AWD or have LSD to compensate for how much power it's delivering.
I totally agree.
The Mazda6 is available in AWD
First one to add an electric motor to the rear wheels of these front drive performance sedans wins. GM did it for the front wheels on the E-Ray and it's awesome!
5.15... damn, that's stinger speed
The Stinger is almost one second faster. More like Mustang ecoboost speed...
@@OlJackBurton The Stinger does it in 4.5-4.7. Never seen a Stinger close to the 3s unless tuned
@@lttsr 4.3 is the fastest i've seen which is .7 - .85 seconds (almost one second) faster than the Sonata N Line.
ua-cam.com/video/JCtFatTgzKs/v-deo.html
In this video, the 0-60 time isn't given, but the quarter mile time was 12.83 which probably requires a 0-60 in the 4.3 range or a very high trap speed, but the trap speed was only about 106 mph, which indicates the 0-60 was probably even quicker than 4.3 seconds. Car and Driver had the Sonata as low as 5.0 seconds from 0-60, but still took 13.6 seconds to reach the quarter mile with the similar trap speed of 105 mph...
@@lttsr I have a stinger GT just watch my videos I do 4.2 easy 100% stock
@@OlJackBurton using regular launch control my stinger GT does 4.5 0-60 n 12.8 at 108.5 in the 1/4. Using parking break launch 4.2 0-60 n 12.55 at same 108-109ish in the 1/4.
I have this exact same car it's a wonderful car . I bought it 2 days ago . But need to return to fix my back left window it jumps and gets stuck . But other then that it's an amazing the performance and handling is super nice
Just purchased one, YELLOW, I get crazy stares ...forgot to mention...FAST!!!!
How the car 2 years in. Is the wheel spin still there in normal mode? What's the city fuel use like? Overall experience?
Not this car but I am getting a Stinger once the Mini lease runs out this year.
This thing in black looks👍👍👍
Fantastic review! I have seen them all on YT and this is the best by far. I have leased Hyundai Sonata limited cars since my motorcycle accident March 2010. Bought my first one and then traded it in on a leased turbo one year later. A black 2021 N-Line will be my 5th Sonata. I look forward to the additional power. We are having hand controls installed Tuesday June 1st, and cant wait! Both KIA and Hyundai have an adaptive mobility program that provides up to $1000 rebate on having the car modified for a paraplegic like myself. Each Sonata has been better than the last. Even though the steering warmer and memory seating is gone in the N-Line. Perhaps I will end the lease early in 1 or 2 years, depending on what comes next. Almost switched to KIA, but the last K5 GT in St. Louis MO was sold before I could sign on the dotted line. I should have jumped on it. K5 is much better looking IMO.
Missing the 200s. Sport suspension, sport seats, aluminum paddles, 60% of torque going to the rear wheels in sport mode via the awd. Also, fusion sport was a BEAST!
lol the sonata n line beat the fusion sport in 0-60. Face the facts. This sonata has sport suspension, and sport seats. The 0-60’is much faster than the 200 without launch control.
Great review, definitely looking at getting a 23 sonata
How did you go? Did you pick up a MY23? If so, how has it been owning one?
@@The-Wise-One decided to wait for the 2024 model
Why do you vastly prefer amber turn signals to red? Just curious, I don't think it's something that's ever bothered me one way or the other
Easier to differentiate between a driver signaling and applying brakes especially in your peripheral.
Much safer to have amber
My next new car is gonna be a tough decision lol......
These are all great cars coming including maybe an updated mustang next year......
I agree
5.1 sec Sonata, 5.7 hemi Charger 5.4 seconds to 60 👀👀👀
Car and Driver got 5.0 seconds. It seems Alex is a very good driver/drag racer...
Suspect
Just paid off my 2011 2.0t limited sonata I bought in 2016 and probably going to look for a used N line in a year or two to replace it. Hopefully in that yellow color
Alex, you should just start showing the 0-60s! These people just can’t get over the fact that the sonata n line so the fastest in the segment!
It really depends on weather as well
That Sonata N-Line sounds as the closest thing to a perfect car for the average American, especially with that legendary warranty Hyundai/Kia has.
Agreed. But even with the base engine most drivers will be real happy
@@dougn2350 you’re right, what I’m seeing out here in Florida proves what you say. The vast majority of new Sonatas on the street, which there are a lot, are the lower trim-level ones.
Great job and review. Excellent job! Nice car.
Excellent video, best by far of the four or five long-format videos I've seen on the Sonata N-Line. What made it the best? Time spent in all the right places, for the correct length of time. Many of the videos I watched spent too much time on the exterior, or interior, or features, and not enough on performance or handling (or they were young kids giggling uncontrollably whenever the gas was floored). This one was perfectly balanced across all subjects, including contrasting and comparing with other brands. The technical understanding and driving skill was also beyond that of the other videographers. I pick up my new Sonata N-Line tomorrow after never having driven one (there are none in my area available to test drive), but my sense is that this video has me well prepared as to what to expect, and I'm looking forward to it more than ever.
I've been an Acura guy for many years, with a BMW and an Audi stuck in there. More than any other, I've loved my Acuras. I'm changing brands here because my beloved 2015 Acura TLX broke a rod and needed a new engine. I needed a new car quickly, and wasn't planning on buying a new car just yet, so I wanted something reasonably priced, but fun and practical. Last weekend I rented a Kia K5 base model, and was so impressed I started looking at the K5 GT and the Sonata N-Line. Between the two, the N-Line turned out the better deal and was more immediately available, so I bought one. Looking forward to roasting those front tires - thanks, Alex!
BEAUTIFUL taillights
In Canada, we get the K5 GT in one trim only, fully loaded, including an LCD instrument cluster, heads up display and a heated windshield. I have one coming in July and my first mod will be some stickier summer tires instead of those P zero all seasons.
I prefer the more chiseled look of the K5.. however the Sonata's is still nice.. Both of them no an LSD option even if it meant giving up half the power train warranty.. we need a N-line performance decision that sell those performance parts
love his reviews
@AlexOnAutos as an owner of a 2.0T Accord I can assure you it doesn’t run out of steam at 50/60MPH…as it’s bone-stock 1/4 mile E.T. at 14.2s @102MPH prove
Just bought one yesterday
Lucky guy
How's the car been 2 years on? What's the wheel spin like in everyday normal mode, is it still there or only in the sports modes? What's only city local traffic fuel use like? What's the overall drive, ownership been like?
@@The-Wise-One Me personally, I haven't had any problems with the vehicle. No wheel spin under normal everyday driving. Unless you have a natural heavy gas foot (from a dead stop) like people who drive mustangs or cameros, you shouldn't have an issue. Even in sport mode it's all dependent on how much gas you're giving it from a dead stop. I can only comment on the highway and interstate fuel mpg as that's mostly my driving. I get about 35mpg on average. Overall the car handles well and the power is definitely there whenever you need it. The shifting is very smooth and quick with the DCT. Don't bother trying to race anyone from a dead stop, you'll spin the tires for days.
@@jdubdoubleu thanks.. I've got one ordered, should arrive in days. Not looking to race, sounds like just need to be gentle of acceleration when taking of from a stand still. Surely it does not spin every time? There are so many haters out there, it's incredible.
@@The-Wise-One rarely any wheel spin for me. The gas pedal is touchy at first until you get used to it.
Like my 4 spoke wheel. It fits my driving style.
I like your cameras angles- it looks like you are playing a video game . 😁😁😁 nice review
Hyundai/Kia is overplaying everything just to compete Only time can tell if they really nailed it
I would get the Kia Stinger GT.
More expensive
Got my 2019 kia stinger GT for $32,400 in November 2019.
Very good car... But i will go for the accord
I wish they would have just added the 360 camera, HUD and ventilated seats/heated wheel for an extra 3k or so
Good job Hyundai!
I like that there’s no handle on the trunk, it keeps the image sleek
That huge gloss black gear button selector and the steering wheel is an abomination lol If it were up to me I'd take the Sonata but with the K5 steering wheel and gear selector.
Tough choice but stinger, and n line tie, then k5 gt, trd, accord
2022 Stinger will get the 2.5T from N-Line
I guess the Charger is classed as a full-size sedan? Don't really get why there's such a claimed difference between the two categories, compact sedans are very obviously smaller, but midsize and fullsize seem to be pretty darn close
Amazing review
I'd still get the Stinger. I like the hatchback.
I’d get a loaded K5 because it has more features and looks a lot better.
This is as fast as an Infiniti G37. Very impressive for a entry level midsized sedan.
I'm going sideways Alex. A stinger GT2 is in my future.
Wait for the 2022 model. Dropping the 2.0T in favor of the 2.5T from the N-Line
18:22 ... every review I've seen has the same giddy reaction when they hit the gas.
I would get the 2022 Stinger top trim with heads up first and if I was limited in financial resources I would definitely take the K5 for its looks alone over the Sonata.
With a lighter full N version, possible to take out any RWD on the twisties. e.g Type-R. However, might not be possible to get a midship to be light enough on its feet.
How would this compete performance wise against a new baseline WRX?
I am wondering if there will be a detailed comparison video between Sonata N-line and KIA K5 GT. I understand they are similar in many ways, but there are little things that could turn people on/off which people might want to know before making the decision to purchase one of these vehicles. Thanks
He just uploaded the k5 gt video! The sonata to me is more of the performance sedan
@@bradleyscarreviews Yeah I saw that :) it's unusual for him to do that, but I think a side-by-side comparison still would be a great content for the consumers.
@@aleksitanninen agreed
I think if you view Alex' K5 GT and Sonata N-Line reviews back-to-back (as I've just done) you'll get the detailed comparisons you're looking for as well as more details about each model than would be possible in a single video. I strongly suspect that the reason that he didn't combine the reviews into a single comparison video is that he didn't have the two vehicles at the same time. The Sonata was available about a week before the KIA according to his comments.
The sudden trunk test caught me off guard😂👍
Loved this car for many months/ now waiting with berated breath for it to be available in Australia 🇦🇺 hopefully at the end of March/ as it’s early March now.🤞
I heard the 2022 Stinger will be getting this engine.
The Stinger might be my next car.
N line in Korea and Canada get all the features. For some reason they really thought dumbing down the interior for the US only was a great idea.
I'll be test driving the new Hyundai Sonata at Enterprise car rental.
One dealership near me , afford 50 dollars just to test drive it,I might go test drive one just to get that 50 😁😁😁
@@kromahj you should! Make a 0-60 vid also
Only the base sonata will be at Rental places
@@bradleyscarreviews question bro, are you working for Kia or Hyundai. Cuz you always on all my comments. Or you just think Kia or Hyundai is the best car manufacturers.
@@kromahj they aren’t. I just like them!
Hadar From “FoolyLiving” sent me ‼️ I’ve been looking for more reviews
Alex, do you think this new DCT can handle all the torque of the 2.5L turbo in 1st gear, or do you think the software is torque-limiting the engine?
Can always rely on Alex to call out that rear turn signals aren't amber. Akin to the trunk comfort index. Maybe a shirt idea about amber turn signals???
Head up display? Heated steering wheel? Looks so nice
Doh on me. You covered that nicely later in the video.
Why no mention of the Stinger? It’s bigger which to me makes it more family friendly.
Sweet car
It's strange that there are now Kia, Hyundai and Genesis. Kia and Hyundai competes with one another quite a lot and they share a lot of components as well. Hyundai is suppose to be a bit more upscale than Kia but I don't know why they have decided to now have 3 different makes.
Options
Think of it this way;
Hyundai = Buick
Kia = Pontiac
Genesis = Cadillac
If you're old enough to remember the GM lineup from decades ago.
I can't deal with this exterior redesign! The previous model, much better looking. Kia K5, much better looking. Hyundai Elantra N, much better looking. I hope it works out?