2008 Hyundai Sonata Limited
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one of our favorite cars, the Hyundai Sonata seemed to be less thrilling this
test drive. We found it rather ordinary, not something we've felt in the past.
Maybe it's time for a remake? Fortunately it's coming for 2009 and was introduced
at this year's Chicago Auto Show.
The
interior in this 2008 Sonata didn't feel luxurious even though it was equipped
with leather, the ride wasn't as soft and the engine lacked any get up and
go. At first it seemed that there might be something wrong in the delivery
of power to the engine it was so draggy. But after a few minutes, it picks
up to normal cruising speed. We don't remember that in past test cars.
The 2008
Hyundai Sonata is equipped with much standard equipment including the usual
A/C, power doors/mirrors and locks. The driver's seat is power, the passenger,
manual. Keyless entry, fog lights, premium door sill plates and heated front
seats are standard on the Limited model. A sliding center armrest is appreciated
because if you drive with the arm down, it's almost impossible to comfortably
reach the console or cupholders.
A tilt/telescopic
steering wheel is standard, Homelink Transceiver, automatic temperature control
and steering wheel audio controls (ugh!), along with the Infinity AM/FM/XM/CD
changer with external amp and subwoofer.
Options
were few on the 2008 Sonata and included sunroof ($900), carpeted floor mats
($85) and Cargo mats ($90).
So we
are glad to hear a freshened Sonata is in the wings featuring all-new interior,
enhanced suspensions and revised powertrains. Improved horsepower and fuel
economy will be welcome. Other new features will include standard USB/iPod
auxiliary inputs to available navigation and sport-tuned suspension. Even
with these 2009 upgrades, Sonata will still be able to boast that they are
the only mid-size sedan under $20,000 with standard Electronic Stability Control.
Three
models are available in the Sonata: well-equipped GLS, sport SE and luxury
Limited. The 2009 Sonata will feature Hyundai's second-generation Theta four-cylinder
engine, a 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder with more horsepower (175).
Sonata's 3.3-liter V6 engine will also be improved, adding 15 more horsepower.
Our suggestion would be to opt for the V6 engine.
A firmer
ride for 2009 is featured, along with several exterior upgrades, from seven
new colors to refigured headlights, taillights and foglights.
It pains
us not to give our favored Hyundai a great rating, but we have every confidence
that when the 2009 is available for testing (it is available in dealerships
now), we'll find it worthy.
Reviewed by Susan Frissell. Womenwithwheels.com