- 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 Premium AT
- 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 Executive AT
- 2013 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 GDI Elite AT
In this article, we will be looking at the rate of depreciation experienced by the different Hyundai Sonata trims to speculate which should keep its value better.
Before crossover and SUV models dominated the marketplace, most individuals looking for a family vehicle had to consider a sedan and if the German offerings were too dear, Hyundai offered very good alternatives. Locally, the Korean automaker used to offer three sedan models, namely the Accent, Elantra and the flagship model, the Sonata.
While in some global markets, the Sonata is still on offer, most South Africans prefer the higher-riding crossover and SUV models and, as such, the Sonata is no longer offered locally. But if you are looking for this sedan, a few used Hyundai Sonata models can be found on AutoTrader here. But, before you get an Instant Offer on your current vehicle to purchase a Sonata, let us take a look at which trim level keeps its value the best.
2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 Premium AT
As alluded to earlier, the Hyundai Sonata has been discontinued locally. However, even some of these earlier models will tick all the boxes for the individual looking for an affordable family vehicle. The most affordable in the sixth-generation range is the Premium trim. The Sonata in Premium guise is powered by a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 131 kW and 228 Nm of torque.
Price new (2012): R 334 600
Average used price: R 179 900
Depreciation: 46.23%
Market average mileage: 101 283 km
2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 Executive AT
Like the Sonata in Premium guise, the Executive trim is powered by the same 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 131 kW and 228 Nm of torque. The main differences include items such as climate control and a sunroof, amongst others, to offer more value to customers.
Price new (2012): R 365 500
Average used price: R 141 950
Depreciation: 61.16%
Market average mileage: 135 854 km
2013 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 GDI Elite AT
The Hyundai Sonata in 2.4 GDI Elite guise positions itself as the flagship model in the range and, as can be expected, is filled to the brim with standard features and high-quality trim. One big difference under the bonnet is the switch from the multipoint electronic fuel injection to a direct injection system. This results in the performance figures increasing to 148 kW and 250 Nm of torque.
Price new (2012): R 439 900
Average used price: R 189 900
Depreciation: 56.83%
Market average mileage: 130 000 km
Verdict
Although the Executive and Elite derivatives were originally sold for a higher price than the Premium variant and are fitted with a lot more standard features than the entry-level model, both have experienced more depreciation. Thus, if you want the most value for your money, look at the Executive and Elite models as they can be had for quite affordable prices. However, if you are looking for the trim that will hold its value the best, it is the Premium.
Ryno FourieRyno started his career capturing press images of the latest and greatest vehicles which have subsequently adorned the covers and pages of prominent motoring titles locally and internationally. After a short stint as a photography lecturer, he once again joined the automotive industry as a sub-editor and photographer for a local publication, however, currently, you will find him spending most of his time in the studio creating written, video, and photography content as part of the AutoTrader content team.View News & Reviews
Keyword: Which Hyundai Sonata trim holds its value better?