2024 Hyundai Sonata vs Lexus ES 350: 9 Reasons to Choose Your Ride Wisely
The 2024 Hyundai Sonata and Lexus ES 350 are solid contenders in the mid-size sedan market. Each has its perks—whether you crave a sporty look or crave comfort—but which one is really the better choice? In this head-to-head comparison, we'll dive deep into performance, features, comfort, and quirks of each vehicle. By the end, you’ll know exactly why one car might just have an edge over the other. Let’s buckle up and get going.
Overview: A Quick Glance at Both Cars
The 2024 Hyundai Sonata is all about value and tech-savvy touches. With its new bold redesign and available hybrid variant, it continues to impress those looking for a stylish yet budget-friendly sedan.
The Lexus ES 350, on the other hand, screams luxury and comfort. It's a little pricier but comes with the reputation of the Lexus brand, along with high-end materials and attention to detail inside and out.
So which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Performance: The Engine That Drives Them
Sonata’s Power and Punch
The 2024 Sonata has several engine options, from a 2.5L inline-4 to a turbocharged 1.6L. Its power output ranges from 180 hp to 290 hp for the N-Line trim. The Sonata’s 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, especially in the N-Line, which is geared towards sporty driving.
What’s Cool:
- Sporty N-Line trim: Feels like a sportscar for a fraction of the price.
- Fuel efficiency: With up to 38 mpg on the highway for the base engine, it's pretty thrifty.
Potential Drawback (With Humor):
"Hey Sonata why so much buzz when you shift?" Some drivers might notice a little noise when the engine gets excited—think of it as the Sonata trying to sing its own tune at higher RPMs.
Lexus ES 350: Refined but Relatively Calm
The ES 350 keeps things simple with one solid option: a 3.5L V6 engine churning out 302 hp. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the ES is all about smoothness and refinement. It's the type of car that doesn't ask too much from you while still giving a rewarding drive.
What’s Great:
- Effortless acceleration: The V6 is buttery smooth and has more than enough power.
- Quiet cabin: The ES 350 practically floats down the highway with little noise.
Potential Drawback (With Humor):
“Who let grandpa in the driver’s seat?” If you're looking for something sporty or engaging ES 350 might feel a little too... responsible. Its handling is more about comfort than carving up corners.
Interior and Comfort: Where the Real Battle Begins
Sonata: Tech Heaven with a Cozy Vibe
Hyundai has really stepped up its game in recent years and the Sonata’s interior is proof of that. It comes with an 8-inch touchscreen (or 10.25-inch on higher trims) wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a modern, sleek dashboard layout.
Interior Highlights:
- Impressive legroom: Your passengers will thank you.
- Heated and ventilated seats: Available for those who want to be toasty or cool.
What Could Be Better:
“Are we there yet?” While comfortable the Sonata's seats aren’t as plush as some rivals. For long drives it may leave you craving a little more cushion.
Lexus ES 350: Luxurious and Laid-Back
The Lexus ES 350 cabin is where luxury comes to life. Soft leather seats premium materials and thoughtful design make it a joy to be inside. The 12.3-inch touchscreen is responsive and easy to use and the optional Mark Levinson sound system will blow your mind.
Interior Highlights:
- High-quality materials: You won’t find any cheap plastic here.
- Incredibly comfortable seats: Perfect for road trips or city drives.
A Little Flaw (With Humor):
“Where’s my mixtape?” Lexus sticks to a touchpad controller for its infotainment system, which can feel a bit finicky at times. You may find yourself doing a little touchscreen dance trying to select the right option.
Technology & Features: Battle of the Bells and Whistles
Sonata: Tech-Savvy and Feature-Rich
One of the Sonata’s big selling points is its technology package. It offers things like Remote Smart Parking Assist, Hyundai’s Digital Key (which lets you use your smartphone as a key), and plenty of safety features.
Tech Perks:
- Wireless charging: Ditch the cables and stay charged.
- Driver-assist features: Adaptive cruise control lane-keep assist and forward collision warning come standard.
ES 350: A Touch of Class with Tech to Match
Lexus is not behind in the technology race. The ES 350 comes equipped with Lexus Enform, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features known as Lexus Safety System+ 2.5.
Tech Advantages:
- Heads-up display: Gives you a fighter-pilot feel with key info on the windshield.
- Intuitive climate control: Set it and forget it with dual-zone auto settings.
Tech Quirk (With Humor):
“Hey Lexus why so extra?” Some drivers might find the Lexus Enform system a bit over the top—it’s like having a butler that insists on offering you 12 different drink options when all you wanted was water.
Pricing and Value: Where Your Dollar Goes
Hyundai Sonata: Wallet-Friendly with Premium Touches
The Sonata starts at around $25,000 which is a great value considering all the features it comes with. Even the higher trims won’t break the bank and you get a lot of bang for your buck.
What Makes It Worth It:
- Affordable premium features: Leather seats panoramic sunroof Bose audio—yes please!
- Strong warranty: Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty keeps your mind at ease.
But Remember:
“Premium on a budget still means a budget.” While the Sonata packs in value don’t expect Lexus-like materials. You get what you pay for but it’s still an excellent deal.
Lexus ES 350: Luxury with a Price Tag to Match
The ES 350 starts around $42,000 and can go up to $50,000+ with added options. It’s a pricier option but it’s all about that premium Lexus feel.
What Makes It Worth It:
- Lexus quality and reliability: Known for long-lasting vehicles and excellent customer service.
- Resale value: The ES 350 tends to hold its value well over time.
A Little Reality Check:
“Wait that’s how much for a trim upgrade?” The cost of adding features can stack up quickly in the ES 350 making you feel like you just booked a first-class ticket instead of economy.
Safety: Keeping You Secure on the Road
Sonata’s Safety Net
The Sonata has a strong suite of safety features. Forward collision warning lane keep assist blind-spot monitoring and more are standard. It also earned high marks from the IIHS and NHTSA for crash safety.
Safety Extras:
- Safe Exit Warning: Alerts you if a car or cyclist is approaching when you're parked.
- Highway Drive Assist: Keeps you centered on the road and maintains a set distance from the car ahead.
ES 350’s Security Blanket
Lexus takes safety seriously too. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 includes pedestrian detection lane departure alert with steering assist and road sign assist. The ES 350 also scored well in crash safety tests.
Standout Safety Features:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Can sense when there’s someone on the road.
- Adaptive High Beams: Automatically adjust based on traffic conditions for better nighttime visibility.
Driving Experience: Smooth or Spirited?
Sonata: Fun But Practical
The Sonata’s handling is confident but leans more toward practicality than sporty. If you opt for the N-Line, you'll get 19-inch wheels stiffer suspension and that extra boost in horsepower to make things more exciting.
Driving Feel:
- Responsive steering: Feels connected to the road.
- Selectable drive modes: Switch between Normal Sport Smart and Eco modes.
ES 350: Comfort Cruiser
The ES 350 is all about a smooth and comfortable ride. It’s quiet composed and the suspension soaks up bumps like a sponge.
Driving Feel:
- Quiet ride: You’ll barely hear a thing on the highway.
- Relaxed handling: Great for long trips but maybe not the best for twisty roads.
Verdict: Which Sedan is Right for You?
Choosing between the 2024 Hyundai Sonata and the Lexus ES 350 really comes down to what you value most in a car. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that’s packed with tech and delivers a stylish design the Sonata is hard to beat. But if you prioritize luxury comfort and have a little more to spend the ES 350 will pamper you in ways the Sonata can't match.
Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast, summed it up well: “The Sonata gives you more bang for your buck but the ES 350 is like slipping into a luxury spa—you just can’t put a price on that comfort. It’s really about what kind of driver you are.”
Quick Recap
- Best for Budget & Tech: Hyundai Sonata
- Best for Comfort & Luxury: Lexus ES 350
- Best for Sporty Feel: Sonata N-Line trim
- Best for Long Drives & Quiet Cabin: Lexus ES 350
Conclusion
Ultimately the 2024 Hyundai Sonata and Lexus ES 350 are both standout mid-size sedans with their own unique appeal. The Sonata brings value tech and sporty vibes especially in the N-Line while the ES 350 delivers luxury comfort and a smooth driving experience. Weighing your budget driving style and feature preferences will help steer you towards the right choice.
Now that you've got the lowdown—time to book a test drive and see which car feels just right for you!
References
- Hyundai Official Website – Specifications and Pricing for the 2024 Sonata
- Lexus Official Website – Specifications and Pricing for the 2024 ES 350
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) – Crash Test Ratings
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) – Crash Test Ratings
- Consumer Reports – Vehicle Reviews and Comparisons
- Alex Collantes’ Personal Experience and Opinion on 2024 Hyundai Sonata vs. Lexus ES 350