7 Reasons to Love the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Configurations (and Maybe One Reason to Think Twice)

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is not your average sedan. This car screams style sophistication and hey even a touch of humor with some of its quirks. If you're in the market for a midsize sedan the Hyundai Sonata offers multiple configurations that can fit nearly every lifestyle—whether you're a daily commuter or a tech geek or maybe even someone who just wants their car to look as good as they do on Instagram. You might already be scrolling through your phone for car listings but before you dive in let’s break down what makes each configuration of the 2021 Hyundai Sonata so special and perhaps highlight one or two of its quirky downsides. Because let’s face it—every car has a little personality.

Hyundai Sonata Configurations Overview

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata comes in five trim levels:

1. SE
2. SEL
3. SEL Plus
4. N Line
5. Limited

Each trim brings its own features engine options and price points to the table. And no Hyundai didn’t cut corners here—whether you’re looking for basic no-frills transportation or a turbocharged experience that will make your daily commute a lot more exciting Hyundai has something for you. So buckle up let’s dive into the details.

SE: Basic Doesn’t Mean Boring

If you're someone who likes to keep things simple the SE might be just your type. The SE comes with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine which offers 191 horsepower—not bad for a base model. You'll get 8-speed automatic transmission a comfortable ride and just enough power to merge onto the highway without sweating bullets.

But what really stands out is the safety features. Hyundai packed the SE with forward collision-avoidance lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. So not only will you look good but you’ll be safe too.

Drawbacks of the SE

OK let’s be real for a second: the SE isn't going to win any drag races. With 191 horsepower it's not exactly a "punch you in the face with speed" kind of car. But hey it's called "entry-level" for a reason.

As Alex Collantes a car enthusiast and self-proclaimed expert on all things Sonata says: “The SE is perfect for people who don’t care about showing off. But if you want to feel any sort of thrill driving you might want to keep reading."

SEL: The Sweet Spot for Most Buyers

The SEL configuration offers a step up in comfort and tech. With its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system heated front seats and the all-important dual-zone automatic climate control this is the trim most buyers gravitate toward. It still has the same 2.5L engine as the SE but it includes a bit more fun—at least in terms of the interior experience.

One cool feature of the SEL? It comes with Hyundai’s Bluelink® Connected Car Services. Want to start your car from your phone? Now you can.

Drawbacks of the SEL

For all its perks the SEL still doesn’t give you an upgraded engine. If you were hoping for more power sorry to break it to you—this one’s more about comfort than speed. As Alex Collantes puts it: “It’s like wearing stylish shoes that are super comfy but also a bit slow if you need to run.”

SEL Plus: Performance Meets Practicality

Now we're talking. The SEL Plus is where the Sonata gets a bit more interesting. Instead of the 2.5L engine you get a 1.6L turbocharged engine that produces 180 horsepower. Wait you might be thinking isn’t that less horsepower than the SE? Well yes but the turbocharged engine delivers more low-end torque making the driving experience feel a lot zippier—perfect for city driving.

The SEL Plus also adds some fun goodies like 18-inch wheels and leatherette and Dinamica® suede seats. These small upgrades make it feel like a luxury car without actually paying luxury prices.

Drawbacks of the SEL Plus

While the turbo engine is more fun you’re still not in sports car territory. And let’s be real Dinamica® suede is fancy until you spill coffee on it. Be careful with that latte folks.

Alex Collantes shared his thoughts on this one: "The SEL Plus makes you feel like you’re driving something way more expensive than it is. But then you remember it's not a race car. Still it’s a great balance between power and comfort."

N Line: For the Speed Enthusiasts

If you’ve been yawning so far because none of these configurations sound exciting enough for your lead foot the N Line is where you’ll want to focus. Hyundai pulled out the stops with this trim giving it a 2.5L turbocharged engine that cranks out 290 horsepower. You read that right. 290 horsepower. This thing flies.

The N Line also gets some styling upgrades—think 19-inch alloy wheels dual exhaust outlets and sport front seats. If you’re a sucker for performance but still need the practicality of a sedan the N Line might just be the perfect middle ground.

Drawbacks of the N Line

Let’s not mince words: the N Line is fast. But with great power comes great thirst. Fuel economy dips here making it more of a splurge for your daily commute if gas prices are top of mind.

“Honestly the N Line is so much fun to drive” says Alex Collantes. “But you have to be willing to visit the gas station more often. And let’s not talk about how easy it is to get carried away on the highway.”

Limited: Luxury in a Sedan

The Limited configuration is Hyundai’s way of saying “Yes we can do luxury too”. At the top of the lineup the Limited comes with every bell and whistle you can imagine: leather seats panoramic sunroof Bose premium audio system and more tech than you'll know what to do with. It also has the 1.6L turbocharged engine from the SEL Plus so it’s more about comfort and tech than pure performance.

One of the coolest features is the Remote Smart Parking Assist. That’s right—this car can park itself. And if you're like me and break into a sweat every time you see a tight parallel parking spot this is your saving grace.

Drawbacks of the Limited

The price tag might make you gulp. While the Limited is packed with features it’s not cheap. Plus despite all the luxuries you’re still dealing with the 1.6L engine. So if you want top-tier power you’ll have to go back to the N Line.

Alex Collantes weighs in: “The Limited is so packed with features it feels more like a tech gadget than a car. But once you see the price you’ll either need a deep wallet or a strong desire to impress your passengers.”

Comparison of Key Features

Here’s a quick look at how the features stack up across the 2021 Hyundai Sonata configurations:

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Variety of Options: No matter what your budget or preference there’s a Sonata for you
• Strong Safety Features: Even the base SE comes packed with safety technology
• N Line Performance: If you want power at a relatively affordable price the N Line delivers

Cons:

• Underwhelming Base Engine: The 2.5L engine gets the job done but it won't win any awards
• Fuel Economy: The N Line is fun but be prepared for extra fuel costs
• Pricey Limited Trim: While luxurious the Limited trim might be a stretch for those not ready to spend over $33k

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata configurations offer something for nearly everyone—from the budget-conscious driver to the tech lover and even the speed enthusiast. If you’re in the market for a midsize sedan it’s hard to go wrong here. Just make sure you know what you’re getting into with each configuration. And remember if you choose the N Line maybe try to keep your lead foot in check—you know for fuel efficiency’s sake.

Alex Collantes sums it up perfectly: “There’s a Sonata for everyone but like with any car you’ve got to know what you're really looking for—speed tech luxury or just something that’ll get you from point A to point B without too much fuss.”

Whether you’re eyeing the N Line for its power or the Limited for its luxury the 2021 Hyundai Sonata brings something unique to the table.