2006 Hyundai Sonata

When people ask what kind of car I am testing and the answer is, "a Hyundai," their response is often a blank stare.
It’s not that they dislike the Korean carmaker. It’s just that, well, they were hoping to engage in lively conversation about cars, but the word “Hyundai” catches them out of the loop.
I think that’s about to change.
Ads for the redesigned 2006 Hyundai Sonata promise a sedan to exceed all expectations. My week’s test drive proved this isn’t just more of the usual hype.

The good news
The best news here is what you get for what you pay. Keep that in mind as you consider the positives:
The first glance gives the first clue that this Sonata has a new attitude. The lines are elegant, with a deep front overhang and sleek, wrapped rear taillights. Even better, mine was finished in a beautiful metallic-fleck “deep water blue” paint worthy of the luxury class. Nice touches like the chrome insets on the door handles, dual chrome-tipped exhaust and 17-inch alloys further this upscale look.

Inside my LX V6 model, the most tricked-out, quality gray leather seating welcomes five passengers. Front seat headroom and legroom accommodate comfortably. Front seats are heated, and the driver gets power adjustments and lumbar support. The audio system includes CD/MP3 capability and can be controlled from the steering wheel. Interior climate, headlamps on/off and mirror dimming all operate automatically. All of this and more comes standard on the LX.

Power for this Sonata comes from a 3.3L V6 with continuous variable valve timing. Rated at 235 horses and 226 pound-feet of torque, it exceeds the previous Sonata by 65 horses and 45 pound feet. That’s significant.

Spook those 235 horses and the tires chirp. It is plenty quick, despite rather hefty weight. The performance either equals or trumps much of its competition. The five-speed automatic transmission includes a manual mode, a rarity in this class. Electronic stability control with traction control, another unexpected plus, is also standard.

Also surprising at this price are the Sonata’s six airbags: dual front and side airbags and roof mounted side curtain for head protection. Anti-lock brakes are also standard equipment on this LX.

The handling dynamics in this Sonata compare favorably with others in its class. The overall driving experience is easy, precise and satisfying, but if you want to push it, the Sonata obliges. It remains relatively flat in fast curves and doesn’t go economy-sedan on you when challenged by more aggressive driving.

But my guess is it will spend most of its life taking the family on vacation and Mom to the mall. In that case, its crisp turning radius makes it easily maneuverable. Its cavernous 16 cubic feet of carpeted trunk will more than accommodate those shopping trips and vacations. It is well suited for long interstate rides.

All Hyundais continue to offer an amazing warranty designed to give buyers a comfort level with the relative unknown. Coverage includes 5 years/60,000 miles new vehicle warranty; 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance. Limited warranties are also available for extra cost.

The bad news
It’s difficult to find fault when the Sonata gives so much for such a reasonable price. If we were prone to nitpick (which we are), two things come to mind.

First, for a "large car" – which is the Sonata’s official classification – and interior dimensions that exceed its classmates, rear legroom could be more generous. My sense is Hyundai got a little overzealous with the trunk.

Second, rough pavement registers through the ride more than I would hope. It’s not that the ride jars passengers; the Hyundai’s shocks do a reasonable job of smoothing out these intrusions. Rather, I’m disappointed that we feel them at all. I suspect an effort to give this sedan sportier handling results in this sensitive ride. Depending on your priorities, the tradeoff could be a good one.

Is it worth it?
It used to be the Sonata undercut its chief competitors in price, and you understood why. It was less car for less money.

This new model changes all that. It still undercuts them in price, but in many ways offers more car. From its V6 power to its style and amenities, it feels less economy, more luxury than other cars in this class.

I am hugely impressed by this Sonata. It is a great sedan for the money, exceeding expectations in every way and capable of luring buyers from the venerable Japanese nameplates.

Hyundai may not become a household word overnight, but this Sonata proves it should filter into the vocabulary of savvy car shoppers.

Particulars
Front-engine, 5 passengers, 4 doors
Price
Base: $; 22,895 (includes destination)
As tested: $22,895
Safety
Airbags: dual front; dual side; curtain front and rear
Three-point seatbelts at all positions
Brakes: discs with anti-lock standard
Engine
Type: 3.3L DOHC 24V V6 (aluminum), variable intake-valve timingA
Power: 235 bhp @ 6000 rpm; 226 lb-ft torque @ 3500 rpm
Drivetrain
Transmission: 5-speed automatic with manumatic shift
Front-wheel drive
Exterior/Interior Dimensions
Wheelbase: 107.4 in.
Length/width/height: 188.9/72.1/58.0 in.
Curb weight: 3540 lb.
Ground clearance: 6.3 in.
Luggage capacity: 16 cu. Ft
Gas mileage
EPA rated at 20 mpg city/30 highway

Website: www.hyundaiusa.com

During her 16 years reviewing new vehicles, Beth Stein has written for Nashville's dailies (circ. 185,000), national magazines and BestStuff.com. She appeared coast-to-coast on-air for Road Test Magazine, Car And Driver Television and Motor Trend Television.