According to company forecasts, over 70 percent of all units sold in Canada will be motivated by the 2.4L 4-cylinder Theta II engine. A host of technical revisions allowed engineers to bump horsepower from 162 to 175 while increasing torque from 164 to 168 lb-ft. Much of these gains are the result of a new dual variable valve timing system.

While it may not be the strongest in its class, the Sonata's V6 engine is most impressive under acceleration.

Spirited V6
The 3.3L Lambda V6 is also more potent for 2009, producing 249 horsepower instead of 235 (and three additional foot-pounds of torque). While it may not be the strongest in its class, this mill surprises by delivering spirited accelerations and convincing passing maneuvers. Thusly powered, the Sonata looks like a family hot rod.

While the base model comes with a 5-speed manual transmission, every other Sonata uses a 5-speed SportShift automatic. "Less than 5 percent of our customers asked for the manual, explains Mr. Vernile. That's why it's not available with other models."

After all, given how pleasant to work with the SportShift unit is, the idea of toying with a stick during rush hours is no longer appealing. The fifth gear added for 2009 also makes the driving experience smoother while improving fuel economy.

Revamped interior
Built at Hyundai's Montgomery (AL) assembly plant since 2006, the Sonata comes back with a revamped interior. The new dashboard looks more organic, especially with the much smaller center stack.

The controls are still conveniently laid out. The redesigned front seat cushions are 16-mm longer and 14-mm wider while being further reclined by 2 degrees. Despite the lack of side support (especially on winding roads), these buckets prove comfortable on the highway. And how "cool" is this: every 2009 Sonata comes with heated seats. Drivers who live up North will undoubtedly welcome this new standard feature.

The new dashboard looks much more organic.