Conclusion

Sensible transportation i.e. a family car is what most people are looking for. Nowadays cars come in all shapes and sizes. Comfort and safety are some of the most important criteria that potential buyers have. Car builders are working to satisfy these requests and I can safely say that Hyundai and its parent company, Kia, have been working very hard indeed.

The new Sonata now has many of the attributes to seriously compete with the Camry and Accord. The problem is that the overall package does not demonstrate the same level of superiority (in terms of build quality) that the other two have. What needs to be considered the most is what you are getting for your money. If we compare equally equipped models, the difference can be as high as $5,000 to $8,000. The question is what the car will be like in 5 years. Hyundais, as I have said, are constantly improving but they still have a way to go. I think the Sonata does deserve consideration and it has a great 5 year / 100 000 km warranty.

Good stuff:
Smooth powerful engines
Interior room and comfort

Not so good stuff:
Some less than desirable plastics
Unbelievably annoying chimes

Competitors:
Honda Accord
Toyota Camry
Nissan Altima
Ford Fusion
Mazda 6