2002 Hyundai Sonata

My first reaction to the 2002 changes in Hyundai’s Sonata was, “Thank heavens they got rid of the repentant dog look.” While the Sonata’s extensive makeover in 1999 represented giant steps in overall quality and appeal, its drooped rear end and rather meek front perspective left a lot to be desired in terms of physical presence. Reminded me of my golden retriever when she gets into the trash. But this year, in addition to a larger displacement engine and subsequent boost in power, a better safety system and improved standard equipment, the Sonata received a much more dignified profile. Fog lamps, 10-spoke16-inch alloy wheels and a bigger trunk were also thrown in for good measure.

The Korean carmaker continues to make the right moves towards major respectability, yet holds the line on price. The 2002 Sonata proves it.

The Good News
The best asset the Sonata carries is its warranty. Hyundai offers a limited bumper-to-bumper 5-year or 60,000-miles coverage plus limited powertrain coverage for 10 years or 100,000 miles. Even if the car is sold, Hyundai still backs the Sonata’s powertrain for 5 years or 60,000 miles.

It’s Hyundai’s way of addressing past quality concerns, and it’s a convincing one. They’re assuming much of the risk buyers feel when they choose this relatively unknown Korean over the Hondas and Toyotas of the world.

The warranty is only part of the lure, however. The Sonata GLS V6 I tested, the more upscale of the lineup, works very hard at providing much of what Accord and Camry buyers like at a price well under that competition.

For 2002, the Sonata’s twin cam V6 increases from 2.5 liters to 2.7 and gains 11 horses in the process. It now produces 181 horses and 177 lb-ft of torque. The power feels reasonable for this sedan and brings it more in line with its competition. A four-speed automatic transmission with a lock-up torque converter and overdrive includes a “manual” mode so driver can select the gear if he/she wishes.

The suspension has also been tweaked this year for a better ride and handling, and Hyundai continues to focus on noise, harshness and vibration control. The result is a sedan that minds the driver reasonably well and keeps passengers comfortable. The luxury factor has become an expectation, even in this pedestrian class and Hyundai intends to keep in step.

To that end, the interior has also been revised with nicer wannabe wood and new instrument panel and dash. The yummy seat fabric resembles black velvet, which is lovely but easily trashed. There are plenty of standard extras, like power accessories, keyless entry, security system, CD audio, cruise, air conditioning.

Safety also improves this year with driver and passenger side air bags, seat belt pretensioners, side impact sensors and Passenger Presence Detection system that keeps air bags from deploying if a seat is empty.

All in all, the Sonata continues to be updated in competitive ways. Yet the price remains well under the $20,000 mark.

The Bad News
As much as Hyundai wants to us to believe the Sonata V6 is every bit the car a Camry or Accord is and gives us this great warranty to allay our fears on quality issues, we’re not fooled. From its smallish seats to its overall integrity, subtle cues reveal this Sonata is not yet playing in that league. It’s not as smooth, not as refined, not as satisfying. But it isn’t as expensive either, and therein lies its ace.

Gas mileage
EPA rated at 20 mpg city/27 highway.

Price
Manufacturer’s base, $17,499;
Price as tested, $18,080

Is it worth it?
When you look at the Sonata GLS with all its equipment, a V6 engine, improved looks and great warranty then compare that pricetag to a comparably equipped Camry or Accord, you will find the Sonata is a good buy. It’s a very nice sedan at a very nice price. Is it going to topple the empires built by Honda or Toyota any time soon? No. But it is going to give the customer with a little less change in his pocket a chance to drive more sedan than he thought he could afford. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

Beth Stein is a life-long car buff and free-lance journalist living in Nashville. She has reviewed new vehicles in print for 12 years as a weekly columnist for Nashville’s daily newspapers and on television for Road Test Magazine and Motor Trend Television. Currently, her reviews appear nationally on Car And Driver Television.