Certified Pre-Owned 2020 HyundaiSonata SEL Sedan I-4 cyl

New Price!
Exterior & Design

Walking up to the 2020 Sonata SEL, the design strikes you immediately as modern, sporty, and purposeful. Hyundai took a risk with this generation: sweeping lines, a raked roofline, slim headlights, a dynamic coupe like silhouette even though this is a four door sedan.

17inch alloy wheels that give a more refined look and better curb appeal.

Sport front fascia and sport rear fascia meaning more aggressive bumpers front and rear, visually lower, more sculpted.

Twin tip muffler a stylistic accent (and a mild nod to performance) rather than full performance tuning.

Heated side mirrors, with integrated turn signal indicators. Adds both convenience in cold weather (important in Midwest winters) and safety/visibility.

Colors and trim details: the SEL usually has more chrome accents than some base models (though less than the top trims). LED or LED accent lights for DRLs, with a design intended to catch attention without being flashy. The body shape is wider and lowered compared to past models (35 mm lower, 60 mm wider, per CarMaxs review) which helps with both aesthetics and handling presence.

Interior, Comfort & Conveniences

Inside, the SEL gives a nice blend of practicality and comfort. It feels upscale compared to basic trims, though not quite luxury level. For someone shopping at Michigan City Hyundai, the SELs interior touches will likely feel like you got more for your money.

Key interior features include:

Seats: Your drivers seat tends to be power adjustable (often 8way) with lumbar support. The front passenger may have manual or power adjustments depending on package. Cloth is standard; higher trims get leather. Heated front seats are standard on the SEL.

Materials and trim: Soft touch materials in places that matter (door panels, dashboard top), some higher gloss / metallic finishes around vents, center console, etc. The design is intended to reduce visual clutter, with textured knobs and intuitive interface elements.

Instrument cluster & display: On the SEL, you get a color LCD instrument cluster display (in SE the display is more basic). With optional packages, you can get a larger 12.3inch digital gauge cluster.

Infotainment & smartphone integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support are included or optional (depending on package). The touchscreen tends to be well integrated, with physical buttons/knobs for volume, tuning, etc., easing usability.

Climate and comfort: Dual zone automatic climate control may be available. It allows different settings for driver and passenger. Heated mirrors and seats, often.

Other convenience features that distinguish the SEL:

Proximity key entry with pushbutton start. No need to fumble for keys when your hands are full.

Handsfree Smart Trunk Release: If you approach the vehicles rear with the key fob and stand near the trunk, the trunk will open automatically. Very helpful when loading groceries, luggage, etc.

A 4.2inch color LCD display (for things like trip info, instrument readouts) is part of the SEL upgrade over base trims.

Powertrain, Performance & Driving Impressions

For many buyers in this area, driving performance and fuel economy matter a lot on highways, city roads, during winter, etc. The Sonata SEL delivers well here.

Engine: The standard engine on the 2020 Sonata SEL is a 2.5liter inline 4cylinder (Smart stream I4) making about 191 horsepower at ~6100 rpm and 181 pound feet of torque at ~4000 rpm.

Transmission: It uses an 8 speed automatic transmission. Shifts are smooth, and performance is consistent.

Fuel economy: According to EPA estimates, you're looking at about 27 mpg city / 37 mpg highway for the SEL with the 2.5L. Combined somewhere around 31 mpg or so depending on driving style.