Hyundai Sonata '09 V6 Road Test
An Unbiased Look at the Reworked Sonata and Its Performance
Though not as sweet as its musical namesake Hyundai's mostly new '09 Sonata is finally a car that shouldn’t be judged on price alone. Though still not the equal of Honda’s Accord, Toyota’s Camry or Chevrolet’s Malibu the reworked and restyled sixth generation Sonata is more sophisticated than its ’08 ancestor. It’s an inch or two larger in all major dimensions, carries more safety equipment and is slightly more powerful. It retains one of the industries’ best warranties and, at $23,850 base, is just a few dollars more than its predecessor.
Styling and Interior Accommodations
Outside the front-drive Sonata remains conservatively styled, a trait all vehicles in its class share. Inside it’s fairly attractive, the nicely shaped but thinly padded cloth front power buckets able to accommodate even jumbo-size people. In back the split/folding rear bench has realistic room for two. The trunk is large, nicely finished and boasts low liftover height.
Standard Equipment
The mid-line SE tested offers an astoundingly high level of standard equipment. The steering column tilts and telescopes; finding a comfortable position is easy. Power rack and pinion steering with auxiliary center controls and a leather-wrapped wheel keeps parking from becoming a hassle. Dual front, side, and side curtain airbags with active head restraints make this Montgomery, Ala. built vehicle safer. Full instrumentation along with a rudimentary trip computer tells you what's happening underhood. Well-designed cupholders are standard; nook and cranny storage areas abound. A power-operated sunroof is $870.
Creature Comforts and Safety
A tinny AM/FM/CD/XM Satellite/MP3 sound system, adequate air conditioning, cruise control, electric windows/mirrors/locks, keyfob entry and a burglar alarm are standard. Power four-wheel disc antilock brakes with Electronic BrakeForce Distribution produces better than average stopping distances. Electronic Stability and Traction Control units help keep you safe. A tire pressure warning system has been added for ’09.
Engine and Performance
Underhood the porky 3,458 pound Sonata utilized a mildly upgraded 3.3 liter, 249 HP four valve per cylinder aluminum V6 with variable valve timing. Zero to 60 times measured with a Belkin accelerometer during the week-long test period averaged 8.3 seconds, a few ticks behind the class leaders. Mileage on regular unleaded was observed at 16 city and 27 highway (EPA 19/29), about the same as its competitors. The engine is relatively smooth and quiet; low-end torque is abundant. The V6 was mated to an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with lockup torque converter. It shifted flawlessly.
Ride and Handling
The '09 Sonata's ride was smooth but far from supple. Bumps and potholes are negotiated with little fanfare by the 4-wheel independent suspension … but it still doesn't match the “buttoned down” feeling of the class leaders.
Handling is satisfactory, with body lean and stability through corners merely acceptable for a family car. The turning circle, at 36 feet, is slightly better its rivals. Towing capacity is 2,000 pounds.
The Verdict
Overall the ’09 Sonata is incrementally improved. Its interior materials, notable last year, need upgrading in the new model. Quality control, thankfully, has improved beyond the level of Detroit’s “Big Three.” This was a sore point when Hyundai was first imported to North America. Sadly, resale value remains low. Despite its demerits the Sonata is well worth test driving.
