Comparison Review

Utility
The 2013 Hyundai Sonata and its cousin, the 2013 Kia Optima, both provide seating for five in the midsize sedan category. Although these two vehicles are related, each vehicle maintains its own distinctive style. The Sonata provides slightly more passenger volume than the Optima and a larger trunk. The Optima boasts a sportier appearance than the regal, elegant Sonata, and has ramped up its offering of standard features.

Performance
The Optima's 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine packs slightly more horsepower than the Sonata's (200 vs. 198), but both vehicles deliver identical performance in the 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder. The Sonata and Optima both offer a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, and the automatic includes an auto/manual control feature with available steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Both models offer an hybrid edition, with a net 206-hp hybrid engine and lithium-polymer battery.

Fuel Economy
Both the Sonata and Optima share identical fuel economy statistics, delivering 24/35 mpg for the 2.4-liter manual and automatic models, 22/34 mpg for the 2.0-liter turbo engine, and 35/40 mpg in hybrid performance.

Interior
The Sonata and Optima both deliver the standard features, including an audio system with USB/iPod inputs, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluetooth hands-free calling. The Sonata's Bluelink system, another standard offering, provides live-operator assistance for traffic and other assistance. The Optima counters with an available voice-activated UVO system, powered by Microsoft, which provides voice-commanded phone and music functions, and is packaged with a rear view camera. Both vehicles have an available rear heated seats, a rarity among midsize sedans in their class, and the Optima includes a standard cooled glove box. Both vehicles offer a panoramic tilt-and-slide sunroof.

Safety
Both the Sonata and Optima demonstrate stellar safety reputations, winning a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. Each vehicle delivers exemplary safety features and are closely matched, providing standard electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce, and active front head restraints.

Conclusion
With these two closely matched vehicles having so many similarities, it's hard to pick a clear winner between the Sonata and Optima. Both vehicles offer excellent value for the money, especially with a robust set of standard features and compelling upgrades. The difference lies in the fine details: the Optima is the more driver-centric of the two cars has edgier styling, and a few more standard features than the Sonata. The Sonata is the more comfortable of the two cars and better suited for young families.