I’ve got a 2015 Kia Optima, and yeah, the engine wasn’t great, but for the price, it did the job. I was planning on getting a Kia Stinger next, but that’s not happening. They don’t sell the K5 where I live, and the G70 is just too expensive for me. I really want something new.
I did consider some entry-level BMWs and similar cars, but I’m just not that loaded.
Honestly, the price of the Sonata N-Line is really tempting, especially considering how much power you get for the money. I’m kinda into how it looks too.
It would’ve been nice if it had AWD and some more options, but I can deal with what it’s got. Not crazy about the grey interior, but it’s not awful, just kinda plain.
One thing that worries me is hearing that the Dual Clutch Transmission can overheat. Plus, I’ve never actually seen one on the road… seems like everyone’s driving electric or SUVs these days.
So… am I making a mistake here or what? Someone talk me out of it before I do something impulsive.
I just picked up a 2023 Sonata N-Line last week, and I’ve already clocked over 600 km on it. Gotta say, I love the car. The tech is great, the handling is impressive, and the power is way more than you’d expect for a mid-size sedan.
But there are a few things to know… It doesn’t come with a sunglasses holder, which is annoying, and the DCT transmission can be weird at lower speeds. In Sport and Sport+ modes, it’s quick and snappy, but in normal mode or at low speeds, it feels jerky and awkward. That’s just how DCTs are, and if you’re gonna be stuck in traffic a lot, it might wear out faster. Also, the 19-inch wheels and sport suspension make the ride pretty stiff, so you’ll feel the bumps.
If those things don’t bother you, it’s an awesome car. Just make sure you test drive it a lot before you commit.
@Matt
Thanks a lot, that was really helpful. I live in a small town without much traffic, and I usually use a work truck for my daily commute. This car would mostly be for weekend trips, like 150-200 miles on highways. Sounds like it could be a good fit.
@William_Johnson
If that’s the case, you might also want to think about a hybrid or a Camry. They’d be a lot more comfortable for long highway drives. But yeah, if you want performance at that price, it’s tough to beat.
I got the 2024 version, and I’d say go for it. I live in a big city with a lot of stop-and-go traffic and haven’t had any issues with the DCT. The interior might look grey in pictures, but in person, it’s pretty much black. I’ve gotten plenty of compliments on it too. You might also want to check out the Elantra N.
@Flippa
Appreciate the input. I do like the sporty vibe of the Elantra N, and they’re priced the same. But honestly, being over 40, I feel like I might be too old for that kind of car.
William_Johnson said: @Flippa
Appreciate the input. I do like the sporty vibe of the Elantra N, and they’re priced the same. But honestly, being over 40, I feel like I might be too old for that kind of car.
TucsonTrekker said:
If you just want a fast sedan, it’s not a bad option. But if you’re after a really sporty feel, you might be disappointed.
I guess what I really want is a GT, but I just can’t afford it. I know the Elantra N would be more fun, but it wouldn’t be as comfortable. The Sonata N-Line seems more balanced between comfort and speed.
I’ve got a 2021 Sonata N-Line. I do construction and renovations, and I don’t always have my work truck on hand. This car has hauled everything from concrete to lumber and still runs great, just a bit beat up now. Had a transmission problem at 27,000 miles, but Hyundai sorted it out with great customer service. They gave me a rental and even cut me a check for the hassle. I’m sticking with the brand.
I used to own an SEL and a few other Sonatas. Solid cars overall. The dry clutch ones can be a bit sketchy, but the wet clutch models are usually fine. Front-wheel drive is the only real downside, but that’s true for a lot of performance sedans. Honestly, if your budget can stretch, I’d recommend looking at a used Polestar 2 or a Tesla. I made the switch to electric, and I don’t think I could go back.