The Good
The 2012 Sonata offers a compelling blend of advantages. Practically, it boasts excellent fuel efficiency and strong value for money. Emotionally, its sleek design and comfortable, spacious interior appeal to those seeking a stylish and pleasant driving experience. Performance is adequate for daily driving, with a focus on smooth and reliable operation.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2012 Sonata include potential engine issues, specifically with the 2.4L engine relating to oil consumption and possible engine failure. Suspension components can wear prematurely. Some owners have reported issues with the panoramic sunroof. Be sure to check the vehicle history for recalls and completed repairs.
2012 Hyundai Sonata: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
2.4L Inline-4 (GLS, SE, Limited): 190-198 hp, 186 lb-ft of torque
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (SE, Limited): 274 hp, 269 lb-ft of torque
2.4L Hybrid Inline-4 (Hybrid): 166 hp (engine only), 190 hp (combined system output) - Horsepower: Ranging from 190 hp to 274 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
2.4L: EPA estimated 24 MPG city / 35 MPG highway
2.0L Turbo: EPA estimated 22 MPG city / 34 MPG highway
2.4L Hybrid: EPA estimated 35-40 MPG combined - 0-60 Times:
2.4L: Approximately 8.5 - 9.0 seconds
2.0L Turbo: Approximately 6.5 - 7.0 seconds - Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
GLS: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, CD player with satellite radio, and cloth upholstery.
SE: Added sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, rear spoiler, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and upgraded audio system. The 2.0T SE received the Turbo engine, paddle shifters and dual exhaust
Limited: Included leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, sunroof, premium audio system, and available navigation. - Hybrid: Included unique exterior styling, hybrid-specific instrument cluster, and regenerative braking system.
2012 Hyundai Sonata Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Front-Wheel Drive 2.0-T |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1504.11 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 147.07 cm |
| Overall Length | 482.09 cm |
| Overall Width | 183.39 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 279.4 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0L |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $26,345 USD |
| Invoice Price | $24,633 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $760 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Have?
How long will the 2012 Hyundai Sonata last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars, but the Sonata included standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. Optional features included a rearview camera and parking sensors.
Safety features included front, side, and curtain airbags. The 2012 Sonata received good crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning a "Top Safety Pick" award. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. Optional features included fog lights and automatic headlights. The Limited trim came with a sunroof and leather seats.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Hyundai Sonata Prices and Market Value
2012 Hyundai Sonata Cost of Ownership
2012 Hyundai Sonata Fuel Efficiency
2012 Hyundai Sonata Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Hyundai Sonata Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2012 Hyundai Sonata Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Compare to Other Sedan?
Alternatives to the 2012 Sonata would be the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord for their superior reliability, even if they might cost slightly more upfront. The Ford Fusion could be a suitable alternative for those seeking a stylish and well-rounded sedan, but it's advisable to check its reliability ratings as well. If reliability is a top priority, opting for a Camry or Accord is a better choice, even at a slightly higher price point.
Ranks #1110 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1110 | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Hyundai Sonata a Good Sedan?
J Hollingsworth on May 29, 2024
Power door locks played out couple of years ago, wasPower door locks played out couple of years ago, was quoted $400 per door to repair. The hood supporting struts played out, I have to carry a broom handle in the trunk to support the hood. So far the drive train has been trouble free, knock on wood. I would probably would not buy a Kia or Hyundai again.
Sidney Aumack jr on January 23, 2024
Making the yugo look good. 2012 Sonata junkI was lucky enough to get a new motor. Since I bought this 2012 Sonata it is one of the biggest lemons that was ever made. The dealership has had 4 different owners and there is always a problem with the car. Now I have flickering lights on the headlights front and back and cannot find an attorney to help. I have had some things fixed 4 or more times. The only reason I still have the car is because I cant sell it.
Amanda Romero on July 16, 2023
Worst purchase everI just purchased this vehicle in April and have had so many problems with it .totally disappointed the transmission linkage disconnected from shifter and the gas gas gage only works sometimes
Highway Traveler on January 2, 2023
Great Car with a Potential Flaw that is addressed.the 2012 Hyundai Sonata is a smooth comfortable car with a potential flaw that Hyundai has, in my opinion, addressed adequately. First the Pros: It is stylish in both the interior as well as exterior design. It is comfortable, even for me at 6'3" and is not tiring for extended periods on the highway. The fuel economy is good averaging for me about 32 MPG with mostly highway driving. The engine has reasonable power when needed and is generally smooth. The cons are that the 4-cylinder Theta-II engine that the Sonata Uses, (as well as the Santa Fe and Kia Optima and Sorento) has a known flaw that causes the
JIMMY AUMACK on August 25, 2022
ONE OF THE BIGGEST RIPOFFS IN AUTO HISTORYTHERE ARE SO MANY PROBLEMS THAT THEY SHOULD GIVE EVERY 2011 AND 2012 SONATA OWNERS THERE MONEY BACK. THEY SHOULD BE OUT OF BUSINESS. BUT AS HYUNDAI SAYS 'ITS NO FAULT OF OUR OWN'
Wynette Norwood on May 7, 2022
Hurt! Car recalls expired!It has a lot of recalls and my batteries keep draining because the brake lights come on by themselve it melted thousand for the brake lights it was was replaced in May 2019 I bought it from Carmax in Roseville, CA Hyundai had me take it to the Roseville dealer they are pointing to Carmax Carmax is pointing to Hyundai there is Class action suits on both of them I'm getting an attorney and it's also going limp while driving it. Hyundai said that only 1 recall was done the others expired Carmax said recalls don't expire.
Jean on April 15, 2022
DangerousCar was recalled in 2019 for the engine. Three years later car fatally broke down for the same problem. Only this time, not included under warranty. $6,500 bill. Scam and dangerous.
Unhappy on May 5, 2021
Worst car I have ever owned!!!Motor locked up, steering column rubber star bushing has to be replaced every couple of miles, 40,000 or so, recalls all the time, paint keeps popping off hood, roof and side panels. Cv joints has to be replaced, every so often the gas gauge goes to empty when the tank is half full or more. Steering column paint comes off.
Zack on March 11, 2021
Very good carThis car met all of my needs I'm really happy with it , I got it for good price I haven't got any mechanic problems
HateMySonata on February 22, 2021
Trash for Parts and Customer service SUCKSTrash!.. I often look to see if company is out of business or loosing tons of money and customers. They refused to reimburse for recall 180 after 2 trash motors. Gas leak 2 hrs aways from home after dealership hours and had after hours mechanic fix issue to get bk home. Bc it wasn't dealership I'm out of $200 and rental while local dealership run in circles
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma