STRENGTHS:
Roomy, full-sized sedan at mid-sized prices; plenty of standard safety features; fuel-efficient
VALUE:
The Sonata is classed as a large car by the EPA, unlike mid-sized competitors Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion and Nissan Altima, yet it starts at well under $20,000 for the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder version. The fuel economy of the smaller engine adds to its value, with a city rating of 22 mpg and 32 mpg on the highway with the 5-speed automatic transmission. Even the V6 tops out at a respectable 29 mpg on the highway. Standard safety equipment and an upscale design bring the Sonata into the big leagues at a small price.
WHAT'S NEW:
The Sonata saw only a few upgrades in the past couple of model years, and 2010 is no different. As a concession to gas prices and demand for more fuel-efficient cars, Hyundai has dropped the V6 engine from the GLS trim level; the SE and Limited are still available with either a 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder engine. The interior received a thorough revamp in 2009, with nicer materials and a "flow-through" center console.