Differences Between Se And Limited

6129 Views 7 Replies 6 Participants Last post by rmaler, May 1, 2014

bsongo

Discussion Starter · Jul 28, 2010

Hi,

I am very close to purchasing a 2011 Sonata. I test drove one this past weekend and I fell in love!
I really like the limited trim without navigation, but it looks like the colors I want (White, Dark Blue, or Dark Gray) are not available! 
The dealers have some SE versions with Navigation available.
My question is what is the ride difference like? I understand that the rims are 18 inches on the SE version and 17 inches on the Limited version.
Also, I wanted to find out if there was a difference between the navigation systems between the two trims. It looks like the limited version gets an Infinity Sound System?

I appreciate the help!

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JohnLH

· #2 · Jul 28, 2010

According to the brochure, the Limited adds:

QUOTE

SE Equipment Plus:
+ Power tilt-and-slide sunroof
+ 17-inch alloy wheels
+ Side mirror turn signal indicators
+ Leather seating surfaces
+ Heated front and rear seats
+ Dual automatic temperature control
+ In-dash 6-disc CD-changer
+ HD Radio™ Technology with Multicasting (late availability)
+ 360-watt Dimension® premium audio system
+ Unique interior accents (Piano Black or Woodgrain)
+ Floor console-mounted rear vents
+ Premium door sill plates with “Sonata” badge
+ Auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink® and compass
- Deletes sport-tuned suspension and dual exhaust
- Deletes steering wheel mounted paddle shifters

to the SE.

Of note though is the SE's:

+ 18-inch Hyper Silver alloy wheels with Performance tires
+ Sport-tuned suspension
+ Dual exhaust

The "sport-tuned" suspension gives it a somewhat rougher ride but tighter handling.

Something you said does not make sense - ALL of the colors are available on All of the models (GLS, SE, Limited), so you can have what you want if you are willing to look and wait.

Oh, and Welcome to the board.

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patp811#yahoo.com

· #3 · Jul 28, 2010

I am certainly NOT a Sonata expert - but there are some great minds on this website.
In the 3 months it took me to research, shop, drive and order my car I drove all 3 models.
While I LOVED the SE look-wise (the dual exhaust, the wheels), I did not like the ride. I guess because I came from a long history with Honda Accords. I personally liked the Limited handling much better.
Plus I didnt think the SE would handle as well in the Buffalo winters.
So make sure to drive both - wait for your favorite color - dont settle - and keep an eye on this website!! I have learned so much about this car from these folks!! Welcome!! :thumbsup:

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JohnLH

· #4 · Jul 28, 2010

Drat -

Just noticed I forgot something.

The SE's Nav (from the brochure):

QUOTE

Navigation and Sunroof Package:
+ Power tilt-and-slide sunroof
+ Navigation system with high-resolution touch-screen display
+ HD Radio™ Technology Multicasting (late availability)
+ 360-watt Dimension® premium audio system

While the Limited's Nav:

QUOTE

Navigation Package:
+ Navigation system with high-resolution touch-screen display
+ Rear backup camera
+ 400-watt Infinity® audio system
+ HD Radio™ Technology with Multicasting (late availability)
- Navigation package deletes in-dash 6-disc CD changer

If the audio system is important to you, I'd suggest listening to both, too.

Bringing a CD so you can compare the exact same music is also a good idea.

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jdubs

· #5 · Jul 28, 2010

The SE has a noticeably stiffer suspension which I prefer. The 18's do make the ride be a little harsh at times. Just make sure you drive both before you buy.

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midas69

· #6 · Jul 28, 2010

QUOTE (bsongo @ Jul 27 2010, 07:10 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=345337

I really like the limited trim without navigation, but it looks like the colors I want (White, Dark Blue, or Dark Gray) are not available! 
The dealers have some SE versions with Navigation available.
My question is what is the ride difference like? I understand that the rims are 18 inches on the SE version and 17 inches on the Limited version.
Also, I wanted to find out if there was a difference between the navigation systems between the two trims. It looks like the limited version gets an Infinity Sound System?

I'm a little confused. First you say you like the Limited without navigation, but then you ask in the last sentence about the difference between the navigation systems in the two trim models. As mentioned, besides the radio difference, you also get the rear view camera in the Limited trim.

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bsongo

Discussion Starter · #7 · Jul 28, 2010

thanks for the answers!
i test drove both the se and limited yesterday and i really liked the limited smooth ride better.
now for the right price...

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rmaler

· #8 · May 1, 2014

I recently purchased a 2011 Limited in white/tan leather interior and nav and the ride is real smooth Although you might find the SE version somewhat sportier(dual exhaust etc) you can take a Limited and while investing small amount of $ you can make this car sportier as well by adding a spoiler chrome trim around windows including the pillar post and its becomes a "Special Edition" 1 of a kind Sonata an eye turner

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