Overview

What's New for 2012:
- Engines tuned for slightly better fuel economy
- Navigation system fitted with a higher-resolution screen
- Panoramic sunroof added to the Limited trim level
- New Blue Link telematics system

Exterior Features
The 2012 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan, and is offered in five different trim levels. The Sonata is sold in one 4-door body style. Sixteen-inch steel wheels are standard.

Interior Features
The 2012 Hyundai Sonata offers seating for 5 passengers. Base Sonatas feature cloth upholstery, air conditioning, full power accessories, heated mirrors, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and more. Upgraded trim levels are fitted with such features as full leather upholstery, rearview camera, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Optional Features
Major options are bundled into packages, which include the Navigation package and Sunroof package. The sole option package on the range-topping Sonata Limited trim includes navigation, rearview camera, and a premium Infinity audio system.

Under the Hood
Hyundai Sonatas are fitted with one of three different engines. Base Sonatas feature a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 198 horsepower. That engine is slightly modified to produce 200 horsepower in upper trim levels. The optional engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder rated at 274 horsepower. The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual, with a 6-speed automatic optional (the 6-speed automatic is standard with the turbocharged engine). All Hyundai Sonata models are front-wheel drive.

Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy figures for the 2012 Hyundai Sonata are:

- Hyundai Sonata with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission: 24/35 mpg (city/highway)
- Hyundai Sonata with 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission: 22/34 mpg (city/highway)

Safety
Standard safety features of note on the 2012 Hyundai Sonata include side curtain air bags, active head restraints, and emergency telematics. In government crash tests, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata received an overall rating of 5 (out of 5) stars, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Sonata sedan received a "Good" rating--the Institute's highest--for frontal-offset and side-impact crash protection. Roof strength results from the Institute were also "Good."