2023 Hyundai Sonata SE 4dr Sedan

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata SE 4dr Sedan is a stylish and practical midsize sedan that blends modern design with everyday functionality.
As the base trim in the Sonata lineup, it offers a compelling mix of comfort, technology, and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for families, commuters, or anyone seeking a reliable daily driver.

Exterior Design

The Sonata SE boasts a sleek, aerodynamic profile with Hyundai’s signature “Sensuous Sportiness” design philosophy.
Its low, wide stance is accentuated by a bold front grille featuring a cascading pattern and slim, angular LED headlights that provide excellent illumination.
Daytime running lights are integrated into the headlight design, adding a sharp, modern touch.
The sedan rides on 16-inch silver aluminum wheels, which complement its clean lines and subtle chrome accents around the windows and grille.
The rear features LED taillights connected by a thin strip across the trunk, creating a distinctive and contemporary look.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the 2023 Sonata SE offers a spacious and well-designed cabin that comfortably seats five passengers.
The front seats are upholstered in premium cloth and provide ample support for long drives, while the rear bench offers generous legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers.
The trunk provides 16 cubic feet of cargo space, which is competitive for the midsize sedan class, making it suitable for groceries, luggage, or weekend getaways.

The interior design is minimalist yet refined, with a dashboard layout that prioritizes ergonomics and ease of use.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Sonata SE is powered by a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with dual-port injection.
This naturally aspirated engine delivers 191 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 181 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering a balance of efficiency and responsiveness.
It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, ensuring smooth and well-timed shifts.
The sedan is front-wheel drive, equipped with ABS and driveline traction control for confident handling in various conditions.
While not a performance standout, the Sonata SE provides a comfortable and composed ride, ideal for city driving and highway cruising.

Fuel Economy

The 2023 Sonata SE is designed with efficiency in mind, achieving solid EPA mileage ratings for a midsize sedan.
Actual fuel economy varies based on driving habits, conditions, and maintenance, but it’s engineered to be a frugal option in its class, appealing to cost-conscious drivers.

Technology and Infotainment

The Sonata SE comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that serves as the hub for entertainment and connectivity.
It supports AM/FM/HD radio and includes two first-row LCD monitors for a clear, user-friendly interface.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and hands-free calls.
A keyfob with remote keyless entry provides convenient access to all doors, and heated side mirrors enhance visibility in colder weather.
The system is intuitive and responsive, catering to tech-savvy drivers without overwhelming complexity.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority in the 2023 Sonata SE, which comes with a robust suite of standard driver-assistance technologies.
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection helps prevent collisions, while lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control enhance highway safety.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are included, providing added peace of mind in busy traffic.
The sedan has earned high safety ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS, reflecting its strong crashworthiness and protective features.

Comfort and Convenience

Manual air conditioning keeps the cabin comfortable, though it lacks the dual-zone climate control found in higher trims.
The steering wheel is tilt-and-telescopic, allowing drivers to find their ideal position, and the vehicle includes a hands-free smart trunk release for easy loading.
Power windows, locks, and mirrors are standard, along with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that adds versatility for carrying longer items.

Driving Experience

The Sonata SE prioritizes a smooth and quiet ride over sporty handling, making it well-suited for relaxed commutes or family trips.
Its suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections, though it may feel slightly firm compared to some rivals.
Steering is responsive enough for everyday needs, and the sedan maintains composure on winding roads, though it’s not designed to compete with performance-oriented models.

Overall Impression

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata SE 4dr Sedan is a well-rounded vehicle that excels in delivering value, safety, and modern style.
It’s an attractive option for buyers who want a dependable midsize sedan with a strong feature set, without the need for the extra power or luxury of higher trims.
With its eye-catching exterior, roomy interior, and advanced technology, the Sonata SE stands out as a practical yet sophisticated choice in its segment.