2011 Hyundai Sonata – Onwards and Upwards

The new Hyundai Sonata look stunning, with styling that makes the car seem many thousands of dollars than it should cost. This car jus looks incredible and had many people thinking it was a new Lexus or Mercedes-Benz. The sleek curves and high quality fit and finish may scream uber-expensive German premium sedan , but the Hyundai still offers incredible class-leading value. Prices are up from the previous version, but features and equipment offerings are very impressive.

For example The Limited model at ($28,999) has leather wrapped heated seats both front AND rear! While navigation equipped models have a rear- facing parking camera, and all models receive six air bags and comprehensive electronic safety aids such as anti- lock brakes, brake cornering control and a brake-assist system for emergency stops.

The new Sonata is also the class leader in interior room. The new Sonata will not be offered with a V6 engine. There will eventually be an upmarket 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder model and a hybrid as well, . The base four cylinder engine displaces only 2.4 litres, but, at 198 horsepower (21 hp more than the one in the Honda Accord and 29 more than the entry-level Camry’s), it is no shirker.

A six speed, smooth shifting auto transmission was fitted to our tester and the 2011 Sonata delivers a class- leading highway fuel consumption rating of 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The new Hyundai Sonata is also good on the road. Where the previous model rises soft and cushy, the 2011 feels sportier, tighter and more defined.

This is due to the stiffer springs combined with firmer dampers. Hyundai says the Sonata is now claims is almost 25% stiffer than the previous version and it certainly feels more sports orientated and responsive, As a measure of what you can expect, the Hyundai Sonata will according to Automotive Lease Guide hold its  value at 53% after three years, second only in this segment to the stalwart Honda Accord.

The new Sonata is hugely impressive looks wise and under the skin and offers incredible value for money. Highly recommended as one of the most impressive new sedans for this year.

2011 Hyundai Sonata – priced from $22,649 – $30,999