A fun sedan all around
This is Hyundai’s second-generation Sonata N Line, with the first generation being based on the older design. This one has better tech and a better ride, but it is a hair slower and slightly less aggressive in corners. There are very few vehicles outside of Hyundai/Kia’s universe that directly compare with the Hyundai Sonata N, as most competitors offer far less compelling powertrains. As good as it is, it still has its downsides that may have you considering other cars instead.
Hyundai
Reason to love it #1: Outstanding powertrain
Hyundai equipped the Sonata N Line with a banger of a powertrain that can transform from a daily driver to a screamer with a press of the accelerator. It sports a turbocharged 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that makes 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters.
Hyundai
Reason to love it #2: Excellent all-around road manners
Despite having large 19-inch Sonata N Line-specific wheels with Pirelli P Zero All Season
245/40R-19 94W M+S tires, the ride is remarkably compliant. It has a sport-tuned suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link design in the rear setup. Despite that additional firmness, the Sonata N Line does a brilliant job at sorting out daily commuting and canyon carving hooliganism. Steering feel is mid-level, but the steering weight is excellent, as are the brakes.
Reason to love it #3: Affordable, well-equipped, and very economical
While Hyundai markets the Sonata N Line with a $35,500 MSRP, you’ll probably be closer to $37,000 once you’re done with fees, if you stay away from the options list. Even without the expensive paint options (there are eight color options and some have a $500 or $1000 price tag), and minus extra accessories, you get lots of kit for the dough.
Inside, you get two 12.3-inch screens, one for driver information and the other as an infotainment touchscreen. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with wireless phone charging, are standard, as well as a panoramic sunroof. The seats are very comfortable and have their own unique styling. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata S Line is very thrifty for a powerful vehicle, with an EPA rating of 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway on regular fuel.
Hyundai
Reason to love it #4: It’s unique
Remember when I mentioned the old first-generation Ford Taurus SHO? It’s because the Hyundai Sonata S Line reminds me of it. Both have gobs of power, are fairly lightweight, and are/were unique for their midsize sedan class. This remains the same, as other than its cousin, the Kia K5 GT, there are no vehicles I can think of in this class that compete feature to feature. Yes, Toyota used to have a badass V6 TRD Camry – but that’s history. Honda, Toyota, Nissan, and others have no answer for the awesomeness that is the 2025 Hyundai Sonata N Line.
Reason to think twice #1: Sacrifices were made
There are two things that are either missing or need to be replaced on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata N Line: a six-speed manual transmission option (I know, only a few people would buy it) and replacing the all-season tires. As far as performance goes, the all-season tires have lowered nearly every performance number (acceleration, grip and braking), over the previous summer tire offered. I get it: just as the lack of a manual transmission option makes sense, it also makes sense to have something logical like a tire that can be used year-round. It’s still a bummer.
Hyundai
Reason to think twice #2: Boy racer image
If you were hoping that the new Hyundai Sonata N Line would be a more grown-up option over the equally excellent Elantra N, you would be correct. With that being said, it still looks a bit juvenile to some. Much of that has to do with the huge wheels, massive quad tailpipes, and some of the color options. It’s not that bad, but the sound, design, and swagger help it stand out.
Hyundai
Final thoughts
There are numerous other reasons this car is outstanding, including great safety technology, rear-seat comfort, and a spacious 16 cubic foot trunk, among other features. It’s not for everyone, but I think it’s a car that puts a smile on your face, and it’s more than happy to be a docile daily commuter, too. How many vehicles can do that for this price?
