Front impact
Dummy readings showed that the driver's left knee would have been injured by contact with the lower edge of the steering column shroud. Protection of this body region was compromised for both passenger and driver by structures in the dashboard which presented a potential hazard to the knees and femurs. All three pedals were displaced rearward by more than 100mm, posing a risk of injury to the driver's lower legs and ankles.

Side impact
Hyundai were not satisfied with the original performance of the Sonata in side impact. Euro NCAP allowed Hyundai to make improvements to the car and re-tested the modified vehicle.

Child-protection
The front passenger airbag can be disabled by means of a switch. However, information provided to the driver regarding the status of the airbag is not sufficiently clear. The presence of ISOFIX anchorages in the rear outboard seats was not clearly marked. The Sonata was awarded maximum points for the protection offered to the three-year old dummy in the dynamic tests (front and side impacts).

Pedestrian protection
The part of the bonnet likely to be struck by an adult's head was rated predominantly 'fair'. However, neither the bumper nor the front edge of the bonnet scored any points for the protection they offered.