2012 Hyundai Sonata: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2012 Hyundai Sonata is a slight fuel-economy improvement for gas-engine models after minor engine recalibration. This is otherwise a light update, not a redesign.
About the 2012 Hyundai Sonata
6th generation (YF, 2011-2014), second model year after the 2011 redesign.
Hyundai positions the Sonata as a family sedan that looks and feels less conservative than many midsize rivals. The pitch centers on dramatic styling, a roomy cabin that Hyundai says is large-car sized inside, strong four-cylinder efficiency, and a generous feature list for the class. In this generation, Sonata stands apart from Camry and Accord by leaning harder into design flair and equipment value, while the Hybrid adds fuel savings without giving up midsize-sedan space.
The 2012 Sonata ranges from the practical GLS to the sport-focused SE, the comfort-oriented Limited, and the fuel-saving Hybrid. The SE has firmer suspension, paddle shifters, and 18-inch wheels, while the Limited adds leather, heated front and rear seats, premium audio, and a panoramic sunroof. The Hybrid pairs its gas-electric system with a conventional 6-speed automatic.
What changed, by category
2012 Hyundai Sonata specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto 6-Spd w/Shiftronic & Active ECO System | Auto 6-Spd w/Shiftronic & Active ECO System | Auto 6-Spd w/Shiftronic & Active ECO System | Auto 6-Spd w/Shiftronic & Active ECO System |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Hybrid | Gas |
| MPG City | 22–24 mpg | 24 mpg | 34 mpg | 22–24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34–35 mpg | 35 mpg | 39 mpg | 34–35 mpg |
| Horsepower | 200–274 hp | 190–198 hp | 206 hp | 190–274 hp |
| Torque | 186–269 lb-ft | 179–184 lb-ft | 154 lb-ft | 179–269 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.4 cu-ft | 16.4 cu-ft | 10.7 cu-ft | 16.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Hyundai Sonata redesigned?
No. The 2012 Hyundai Sonata carries over the design introduced for 2011, with only modest updates to fuel economy, navigation-screen clarity, steering calibration, and Limited equipment.
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Hyundai Sonata?
The biggest change is a slight fuel-economy improvement for gas-engine Sonatas. Hyundai made minor recalibrations to the 2.4-liter and 2.0-liter turbo engines.
What changed on the 2012 Sonata Limited?
The 2012 Sonata Limited makes its panoramic sunroof standard and receives the gas lineup’s minor fuel-economy recalibration. It remains the comfort-focused trim, with leather seating, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone climate control, and premium audio.
Did the 2012 Sonata Hybrid change from 2011?
No major hybrid-system change occurred for 2012. The Sonata Hybrid continues with a 2.4-liter gas-electric system, a lithium-polymer battery, and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What changed with the 2012 Sonata navigation system?
Navigation-equipped 2012 Sonatas receive a higher-resolution touchscreen. The sharper display is the main technology update for the year.