Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL
Our scoring places the 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL at 7.8/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this sedan. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.5/10, while Performance at 6.9/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We score reliability at 8.0/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. The 8.5/10 safety score puts it near the top of the class on this dimension; the official trim-level results at nhtsa.gov are worth a final check.
Performance at 6.9/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Tech rates a reasonable 7.8/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $36,253–$42,413, 31 MPG, seating 5, the Hyundai Sonata SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. The 7.8/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL is a solid, well-rounded sedan that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. The main caveat is performance — worth checking if those dimensions are priorities for you. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL ranks #347 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 74% of the segment. Its 7.8/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $36,253 starting price is about 31% above the segment's median of $27,664.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Sonata SL Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Hyundai Sonata SL scores 7.7/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.8 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL
Is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL reliable?
We rate the 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL's reliability 8.0/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL worth buying?
It scores 7.8/10 overall, ranking #347 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 74% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL cost?
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata SL starts at $36,253 and ranges up to $42,413 across trims (MSRP when new). At 31 MPG, expect roughly $1,694/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Sonata SL years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Sonata SL years we've rated are 2015 (7.3/10), 2018 (7.5/10), 2017 (7.5/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.0/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Hyundai Sonata SL
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More Hyundai Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Hyundai models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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