2nd place - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Limited (78.9%)
We had high hopes for this car. Hyundai's Sonata has cemented itself in our psyche as more than just a good bet, and this was for the previous generation. The new one? It's that much better. For a deal-busting $28,999, this Limited Sonata's equipment list puts all--let me repeat that--all luxury auto manufacturers to serious shame. This "Regular Joe" car includes features that are typically reserved for the ultra-high-end. How about rear heated seats, dual-zone auto climate control with an air quality control system, a 7-speaker Dimension audio system and a touch-screen navigation system with a back-up camera?

The talented new Sonata carries a spirited 198-hp 2.4L engine coupled to a 6-speed automatic that make it the quickest to 100 km/h from a standing start. (photo: Auto123.com)

The Sonata scored especially well for interior volume and ease of access. This cavernous cabin welcomes 5 passengers with a smile. As you can see, and as usual, the Hyundai is jam-packed with goodies on the inside. The dashboard is well laid-out, however the deception here comes in the form of cheap, hard plastics that do not fit together as well as we'd like. On the outside, the car has changed. So much so that where "bland" was the codeword for design in the past, "exciting" and "stylish" are the new buzzwords for this car's sleek new bodylines. The Sonata landed the second-best marks in the looks department.

Don't be believing for one second that the Hyundai is a bore to drive. The talented new Sonata carries a spirited 198-hp 2.4L engine coupled to a 6-speed automatic that make it the quickest to 100 km/h from a standing start. Even so, the tranny is not very fond of being pushed around; that works out beautifully as the Sonata is an excellent leisurely family cruiser.

If the #1 car doesn't fit the bill, this one will!

"This car is my absolute favourite! I'm off to buy one right now. Once I get it, I'm going to parade around amongst BMWs and Mercedes' alike, proud of my intelligent purchase. What an impressive package!" - André Deslauriers

	PERFORMANCE	DRIVING DYNAMICS	SECURITY	GENERAL APPRECIATION
Fusion	79.8 %	77.9 %	81.8 %	75.0 %
Accord	75.7 %	74.7 %	80.0 %	74.3 %
Sonata	75.2 %	77.1 %	80.3 %	80.7 %
Mazda6	75.7 %	76.4 %	76.9 %	68.6 %
Legacy	78.2 %	78.7 %	80.5 %	75.0 %
Kizashi	75.2 %	85.9 %	81.4 %	87.1 %
Camry	78.7 %	75.0 %	79.7 %	76.4 %