2022 Hyundai Sonata vs 2022 Lexus ES

The 2022 Lexus ES had long been a staple in the Lexus lineup, evolving over seven generations since its debut in 1990. Despite a decline in sales since its peak in 2007, the ES continued to attract a loyal customer base, primarily among an older demographic. This presented a challenge for Lexus, as the brand sought to appeal to younger buyers without alienating its existing clientele. The latest generation, launched in 2018, was built on the Global Architecture-K platform, shared with models like the Lexus RX and Toyota Camry. The ES featured elegant proportions and a sleek roofline, though its spindle grille and assertive headlamp shapes were polarizing. Inside, the ES offered a well-assembled interior with bold two-tone leather seating in the F Sport model, though the asymmetrical dashboard and analog chronometer added a touch of clutter.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata had undergone a transformation over the years, shedding its early reputation as a Honda Accord mimic. By learning from its competitors, Hyundai improved the Sonata's quality and design, giving it a unique identity. The seventh-generation Sonata, redesigned for 2020, featured a distinctive wide grille and sloped rear roofline. Inside, the Sonata offered a spacious cabin with functional design elements, though rear-seat space was adequate rather than generous. The Sonata N Line added sporty touches, including a body kit and unique interior accents, transforming the car's appearance from mild to wild. The Sonata's cabin was equipped with modern conveniences, and the Limited trim featured leather seats and a two-tone interior.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models with distinct powertrains. The ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It achieved an EPA rating of 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway/28 mpg combined. The ES 350, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, achieving 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway/26 mpg combined. The hybrid ES 300h combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a net 215 hp, excelling in fuel economy with 43 mpg city/44 mpg highway/44 mpg combined. The ES 250 AWD was noted for its smooth handling but lacked the performance expected in a luxury sedan.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata offered a range of engines, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. A turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, available on SEL Plus and Limited trims, delivered 180 hp and 195 lb-ft. The Sonata N Line featured a 290-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission, providing a sportier driving experience. All Sonatas were front-wheel drive, and the N Line's performance enhancements made it a standout in the lineup. The Sonata offered a smooth ride and competent handling, with a quiet cabin that rivaled more luxurious brands.

The 2022 Lexus ES provided 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space, with a pass-through for long items and fold-flat rear seats in the ES 250 and ES 350. The sedan's lower center of gravity and ground clearance contributed to better handling compared to its SUV counterpart, the Lexus RX. Inside, the ES offered ample storage, with large bottle pockets and a spacious center console. The dashboard layout was functional, with a prominent volume knob for easy access.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata boasted 104.4 cubic feet of passenger space, earning it a "Large Car" classification by the EPA. Front-seat headroom and legroom were class-leading, while rear-seat space was adequate for two adults. The Sonata's 16-cubic-foot trunk accommodated a full set of luggage. The Remote Smart Parking Assist feature, standard on the Limited trim, allowed the Sonata to maneuver into tight spaces autonomously, adding a touch of convenience and novelty.

The 2022 Lexus ES came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker Pioneer sound system. Upper trims upgraded to a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The ES featured a 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist. Lexus Enform connected services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote, offering various trial memberships.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata's infotainment system varied by trim, with base models featuring an 8-inch touchscreen and six speakers. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and wireless device charging. The SEL trim included a panoramic sunroof and Highway Driving Assist. Pairing devices via Bluetooth was seamless, and the Bose audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2022 Lexus ES received top safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 included a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. Standard blind-spot monitoring and 10 airbags further enhanced safety.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata also boasted a comprehensive safety package, with features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and driver-attention warning standard on all trims. The NHTSA awarded the Sonata five stars for overall crash protection, while the IIHS gave the 2021 model top ratings in crash tests. The Sonata's advanced safety systems operated seamlessly, providing peace of mind without unnecessary alerts.