Hyundai Sonata Deals

2009 Hyundai Sonata Review

Keep singing that tune

The Hyundai Sonata is one of a few cars that keeps getting better with age. When it was originally introduced in the U.S., it had the dubious honor of following the less-than-stellar Stellar. Though nearly anything could have been an improvement over that hilariously utilitarian sedan, the Sonata started out by slowly improving the company's mid-sized sedan formula. Now, the Sonata is a curious blend of nearly every mid-sized sedan. In a market where you're punished for being too different, it plays the middleman card better than the Camry.

Engines range from a frugal 175 horsepower 4-cylinder to a 249 horsepower V6. Both aren't top of their class — but they're not at the bottom, either. Fuel economy stands at 22/32 city/highway mpg for the smaller engine, and 19/29 mpg for the V6. A penalty of "only" three mpg between each engine suggests the 4-cylinder is well past its prime, and will be replaced soon. The engines are bolted to typical Hyundai chassis tuning where you feel isolated from the feeling of motion, yet the steering carries a more direct feel than some of its rivals.

Inside, you'd almost swear you're driving a Lexus. Well, maybe not if you've actually been in a Lexus — the materials are still a grade or two lower than what you'd find in an IS — but certainly the measure of anything in its class. Whereas Mazda with its 6 and to some extent the Honda Accord dial in a relatively sporty interior layout as you climb the price ladder, the Sonata begins to take a more luxurious route. Leather, chrome and fake wood abound in the top Limited trim. The interior can be outfitted with luxury items such as heated seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, while iPod/USB and auxiliary jacks and a competent stereo are standard. Navigation is available on Limited models for an additional ,250.

All things considered, the Sonata is a car us car guys recommend to non-car people. Its ease of operation, good value, and good warranty are big plus points. Sure, it'll depreciate more than (most of) its competition, but it feels well-built and should last a number of years. The only problem? If history has taught us anything, the Sonata keeps getting better with age — meaning you may be driving Sonatas for a while.