2009 Hyundai Sonata: Road Test
2009 Hyundai Sonata ▼
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- MSRP: $18,700 - $26,550
- Invoice: $17,922 - $24,809
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Our road test for the 2009 Hyundai Sonata includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Hyundai Sonata from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Hyundai Sonata, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Hyundai Sonata help you decide if a 2009 Hyundai Sonata is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
A slight power boost and new 5-speed automatic transmission for 4-cylinder models make them feel a bit stronger than 2006-2008 versions. They have more usable power from a stop and in highway merging and passing. The 2009 V6 Sonata doesn't feel any faster than a 2008 version. That said, the V6 is still quite strong, providing snappy takeoffs and good passing response. Revised programming makes the transmission more responsive than in previous Sonatas, but it still lags behind its rivals for overall smoothness. No manual-transmission models have been made available for testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, V6 Sonatas averaged 22.9-26.0 mpg in mostly highway driving. No opportunity yet to measure fuel economy of a 4-cylinder model. All use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6 | 6 |
Firmer suspension tuning on all 2009 Sonatas allows for decent, but not class-leading ride control. Most wayward body motions are well-suppressed, but the Limited (and GLS, which has the same suspension design) exhibits some bound and wallow over wavy pavement. Surprisingly, the SE model has the best ride of the bunch. Its sport suspension eliminates almost all unwanted motions at virtually no detriment to comfort.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5 | 5.9 |
All models are competent in everyday cornering. More aggressive moves reveal noticeable body lean and imprecise steering feel, particularly in the Limited. SE versions offer the best grip and balance.
QUIETNESS
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 |
Wind-noise suppression is good across the board. Neither the 4-cylinder nor V6 engine sounds especially refined, but both settle down nicely at idle and while cruising. The SE's more aggressive tires are noisier on all types of pavement.
CONTROLS
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.2 |
Sonata's new control layout mimics that of Hyundai's Veracruz SUV. Simple audio and climate functions are grouped close together on a center dashboard stack that's easy to reach on models equipped without the navigation system. Models with navigation absorb audio functions, complicating what should be simple adjustments. The gauges are easy to read, but the central information display for the odometer and transmission gear selection uses contrasting shades of blue that makes it hard to decipher at a glance.
DETAILS
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
The cabin is assembled with care from nicely textured materials. Closer inspection reveals some cost cutting, with hard plastics in many spots. SE's metal-look trim looks better than the faux wood used in the Limited, but neither comes off as tacky. The door and center console armrests have sparse padding.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Most any adult will have adequate headroom and legroom. Taller riders will have marginal headroom beneath the sunroof housing. Redesigned front seats have a longer bottom cushion for better long-distance comfort and support. Thin roof pillars and an upright driving position contribute to fine outward visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Headroom and legroom are sufficient, as is foot space. The bench seat is hospitable, but it could use slightly firmer padding for best comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Trunk space is ample, highlighted by split folding rear seatbacks and non-intrusive strut-type trunk hinges. Inside, the door pockets and two-tired center console bin are on the small side. A large, covered bin located under the climate/audio control stack compensates.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.3 |
Sonata may not trump the Chevy Malibu or Honda Accord for ride composure, handling prowess, or overall refinement. It does, however, have good power (especially the V6), a comfortable cabin, and lots of features in a sensibly priced package. This midsize sedan is a Recommended value that deserves a place on your shopping list.
Total Score
| Limited 4-cylinder | SE V6 | Limited V6 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64 | 67 | 64 | 63 |
Total Score: 65
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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