The Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai has been making plenty of changes lately. While the Korean automaker has been here in the US since the late 1980s, it has recently gained plenty of momentum, and attention, from American consumers. With incredible value, modern styling, and robust warranties, Hyundai cars and SUVs are becoming increasingly popular. One model that's crucial to the lineup is the 2009 Hyundai Sonata. The Hyundai Sonata gets a modest update for this year, with interior and exterior changes, and even more power. So the question is, is it good enough to battle the likes of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord?

The Hyundai Sonata's biggest advantage has always been its value, as with many of Hyundai's models according to a Cheyenne Hyundai dealer. The Sonata in particular features air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and door locks, CD stereo, and much more as standard on the GLS. The Sporty SE model adds larger wheels and a sport suspension. The Limited is the top of the line model, and has heated leather seats, sunroof, universal garage door opener, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Additionally, a Boston Hyundai dealer points out that safety is a big component of what makes the Sonata a strong contender asa family hauler. The sedan offers dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain airbag, ABS brakes with brake assist, traction control, and electronic stability control, and active front head restraints.

The base engine that powers the Hyundai Sonata is a 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine with continuously variable valve timing. The engine now produces 175 horsepower and 168 lb ft of torque for 2009. Mated to either a five speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities, the 2009 Sonata is capable of achieving strong fuel economy as well. Expect 22/32 mpg with the automatic transmission.

Many Illinois Hyundai Sonata buyers are also expected to opt for the larger Lambda 3.3 liter V6 engine, which features 249 horsepower and 229 lb ft of torque for 2009. The larger engine is only mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with the ability to shift manually. Additionally, fuel economy with the V6 is 19 mpg city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Inside the Hyundai Sonata's cabin, Hyundai Chicago drivers will find a really comfortable interior, with quality materials and a modern design. The dash, center console, and doors feature quality materials that have soft surfaces and provide a quality look and feel that adds surprising value.

The interior not only features quality materials, but Hyundai Philadelphia notes there's always plenty of room in the front and the rear. Although the Sonata competes with the midsize sedan segment, the EPA technically classifies it as a large car thanks to its vast interior space.

Driver and passengers at Hyundai Texarkana also have no complaints when it comes to the Hyundai Sonata's storage space. The center console, for example, features a large cubby for storage, while the doors and also offer cavernous pockets. There are even entertainment options, thanks to standard iPod connectivity, and even a USB port and auxiliary input jack to connect a variety of devices.

With ample trunk space, the Sonata can also haul a variety of cargo. The opening of the space is not terribly large, but coupled with a standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat there should be enough room for longer objects. There are also genuine Hyundai parts available to help organize cargo and prevent it from moving while underway.

Riding in the new Hyundai Sonata is smooth and compliant. Kia dealers Denver points out that both Hyundai and Kia vehicles have managed to drastically improve their driving dynamics in recent years, making them fun to drive. Interior noise is also quiet, making the cabin a comfortable place even at highway speeds. Although it's not the sportiest vehicle in its segment, the steering, handling, and brake feel should be up to par with most drivers. The boost in power for 2009 also helps to make the latest Sonata a bit more fun to drive.

The 2009 Hyundai Sonata is priced several thousand dollars below its competition according to Hyundai Car Loans, which makes the Sonata a high value choice among buyers who are looking at popular models such as the Accord and Camry.

About the Author

Joe Kent is a writer for TK Carsites, an automotive website design and marketing firm in Orange, CA, that specializes in working with car dealers nationwide.