Singing Sonata’s praises

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 06 April 2013 | 18.38

I find it difficult to shine a spotlight on any car in the convoluted midsize sedan market. That being said, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata should be on a sedan buyer's list of cars to test-drive when considering the offerings from Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Nissan or Toyota. While there are few features that tip the scales in favor of the Sonata, there is still plenty to like about the sedan from the South Korean automaker.

I've been a big fan of Hyundai's Sonata since I first drove a hybrid version three years ago. A spacious and well-built interior is what continues to strike me most about the Sonata. Our sharp-looking test Sonata had a sparkling ruby red exterior that contrasted well with its two-toned camel and dark brown interior. Heated front and rear leather seats, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, and dual zone climate control are standard features that stood out to me with our test model, which had a base price of $25,845. These are features that usually cost extra on many of the competitors' offerings. Seats throughout the cabin were comfortable with plenty of leg room.

Our test model included a $2,900 "limited premium package" with a high-resolution touch screen and navigation. The package also included a backup camera, a premium sound system and a panoramic sunroof. The added features were simple to use and blended well with the Sonata's upscale interior, but they bumped up the total cost to just under $30,000.

Our test Sonata had adequate power from a 190-horsepower, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. Gas mileage was a respectable 28 mpg combined city and highway. I was pleased to see that Hyundai is still using a smooth-shifting, six-speed automatic transmission as many competitors are switching to continuously variable transmissions. While CVTs have greatly improved — the Honda Accord is a great example — I still enjoy the predictable shifting of the conventional automatic.

Hyundai does a good job balancing the comfort and performance of the Sonata's ride quality. I found the sedan's suspension slightly cushy — some might say too cushy — but it did a good job of dampening bumpy roads ravaged by a snowy New England winter.

There are no losers in the crowded midsize sedan market. The 2013 Sonata offers a modest list of standard features that stand out against the competition. But when you throw in the added features, the Sonata falls in line with the other manufacturers, all pretty much hitting the $30,000 mark. Ditto with fuel economy and overall quality. While a slightly better ride quality might be found elsewhere, it's hard to overlook the 2013 Sonata, especially when you factor in Hyundai's extended warranty.


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