2002-2005 Hyundai Sonata: Full Review

Sonata acceleration is modest but adequate in four-cylinder form, at about 10 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. V6 models are noticeably quicker: around 8.7 seconds with an automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is acceptably smooth, but is sometimes slow to downshift for passing and also too eager to upshift, making its manual shift gate more useful than usual. In a mix of city/highway driving, a Sonata GLS V6/automatic averaged 19.7 mpg. With more highway driving, a GLS V6/automatic averaged 22.4 mpg. A Sonata LX/automatic logged a surprising 25.2 mpg in a combination of swift urban work and performance tests. Both engines use regular fuel. The Sonata's compliant suspension soaks up most bumps with ease, though these sedans float a bit over large dips and humps. Comfort-biased tires keep impact harshness pleasingly low. Steering/handling is modest but predictable, despite marked body lean in fast corners. The GLS and LX are helped by 16-inch wheels, versus 15-inch on other Sonatas. Brakes are a little touchy in routine use, and managed only a class-average showing in a simulated emergency stop--even with ABS. But the non-ABS system resists lockup and nosedive is well checked. Road noise drowns out wind rush at highway speeds, but is not objectionable. Neither is engine noise, though both engines sound rather coarse and aren't quite as smooth as rival Japanese units. Both the Sonata and Optima have mostly large, well-placed gauges and controls. All power-window switches are illuminated. Materials are hard to fault for the price, but glossy woodgrain plastic trim on higher-line models cheapens the ambience and the available leather lacks richness. Front occupants get ample head and leg room. Comfortable front seats offered manual or power height adjustment. They sit relatively high to windows, so outward vision is commanding. The rear seat is wide enough for two adults who have decent headroom but must sit knees-up if front seats are pushed very far back. The rear cushion is somewhat low and a bit too soft for best support, but has a fold-down center armrest. Hyundai's flat-floor trunk has a smallish opening, but good volume. Compact hinges don't dip into the load area. The seatback folds easily but not quite flat, and the pass-through isn't full-width. Interior storage space is generous.

Value for the Money
For equipment and comfort, Sonata and its Optima compatriot are impressive values that came with generous warranties when new. No wonder both have drawn record sales. Steep depreciation and low resale values, as with most South Korean cars, help enhance their value on the used-car market. Overall, these two appeal as bargain-priced Toyota Camry alternatives, with little need for apology.