2018 Hyundai Sonata Trim Comparison

2018 Hyundai Sonata in Laconia, NH

The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a stylish, mid-size sedan that offers a host of desirable features along with sporty performance, all for an affordable price. This isn't a budget sedan, but its price tag doesn't put it into the unreachable-for-most luxury category. 

     

With five trim levels, the 2018 Hyundai Sonata offers enough options to let you get all the features you want in your sedan. You can enjoy a great ride with the basic trim level, or you can opt all the way up to the Limited trim for all the luxury features you want. Here's a look at the different trim levels to help you decide which might be right for you:

Sonata SE

The SE is the basic trim level for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata, and it starts at $22,050. The base model is fitted with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 185 horsepower and gets a combined fuel efficiency of 29 mpg. The drive train includes a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and an auto-manual mode. Drive mode select is also included.

Plenty of safety features that are usually reserved for higher trim levels are included on the base 2018 Hyundai Sonata, including blind spot detection and cross-traffic alert. Of course, a backup camera also comes standard.

Some of the interior features in the base model include a 7-inch infotainment system display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A remote trunk release, auto-off headlights, keyless entry, and smart device integration are all included with the base model. You'll enjoy driving the base Sonata, and you'll have enough convenience features to make your ride a fun one.

Sonata Eco

Drivers are more conscious of the impact that their behaviors have on the environment in both the short- and long-term. The Eco trim level of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, helping drivers to reduce their impact on the environment in Laconia, NH, and beyond. The Eco, which starts at $22,650, comes with a 1.6-liter intercooled, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 178 horsepower and gets an estimated combined 31mpg. The Eco is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and has Shiftronic for manual shifting capability.

Besides these eco-friendly engine changes, the Eco trim level is identical to the base trim level in terms of styling and features. Everything you get with the base model will come with the Eco trim level.

Sonata SEL

The SEL trim level comes with the same power train as the base model 2018 Hyundai Sonata, but it comes with a lot more convenience features and a few other extras. The SEL trim level starts at $23,700, making it an affordable option if you want to get a little more than what the base model offers.

On the exterior, the SEL adds performance tires in the front and back, though no other performance upgrades are included. Inside, you'll find a lot more features, including keyless start, hands-free liftgate action, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated mirrors, HD and satellite radio, a hands-free communication system, heated front seats, a power driver seat with lumbar support, and integrated turn signal mirrors.

Some features start to become optional on the SEL trim level, as well, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist.

Sonata Sport

The Sport trim level shifts the focus to performance enhancement, helping you get more out of your ride without having to give up the safety and styling of a sedan. The power train remains the same as the base model unless you upgrade to the Sport 2.0T, which comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic mode for manual shifting.

Even with the same drive train, the Sport trim level offers enhanced performance through the dual exhaust, paddle shifters, and rear diffuser. Upgrade to the Sport 2.0T, and you'll also get a sport-tuned suspension, larger front brakes, 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin tires, and a dual-pinion R-MDPS.

Inside, the Sport trim level offers sport seats with leather upholstery, aluminum pedals, a sport instrument cluster, 3D tech appearance trim, and a sunroof. You'll not only get enhanced performance with this trim level, but you'll also get enhanced styling to match.

Sonata Limited

The Limited trim level offers all the luxury features you want, some of which were optional on the lower trim levels and some of which were not available. The Limited trim includes the basic power train, or you can upgrade to the Limited 2.0T to get the same power train as the Sport 2.0T trim level.

Outside, the Limited adds features like dynamic bending lights, dark chrome rocker panels and door handles, and LED head lights and tail lights. Inside, you'll get leather seats, a driver's seat memory system, ventilated front seats, dual automatic temperature control, and woodgrain appearance trim. Other add-ons include a vehicle anti-theft system, electrochromic rearview mirror, mirror memory, and a power passenger seat.

If you upgrade to the Limited 2.0T in Laconia, NH, you get automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, a heated steering wheel, navigation system, an eight-inch color touchscreen, infinity premium audio, wireless phone charging, and a rear parking assistance system.

   

Which Is Right for You?

The best way to really get a feel for how the trim levels for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata differ is to take a test drive of the new sedan and experience the different features for yourself. Your local Hyundai dealership should have a few of the trim levels in stock, giving you the opportunity to try out the features and see how they make a difference to your driving experience.

Remember that some options packages are available to give you some features without changing trim levels. Talk to the sales associate about the options, and explore financing options to figure out what will best fit your budget. You can easily find the right configuration for your driving preferences and your finances.