Hyundai Sonata Sings A European Tune In A Japanese Karaoke
First impressions of the Sonata 2-liter may be a little overwhelming. It is, in most respects, a more readily recognizable product of European origin. The nose in particular effectively conveys a message of style, elegance and obscurity in design, a large chrome grille with the company’s emblem. And the rear deck, high and softly shaped, conceals a generous class leading cargo space. However many of you reading with will say, ‘what about resale value and parts pricing?’ Well you have good reasons to ask! But consider this. A 5 year, 300k warranty. This warranty covers plastic panels inside and electronics also. There is also coverage for the drivetrain and suspension. This means some 5 years of minimal running costs. Now lets look at the asking price. Compared to the nearest rivals, it is some RM15,000 cheaper with at least RM10,000 worth of added features. Features like panoramic roof and hill start assist which are missing from the competition and a premium audio. This means a RM25k lead. Take the value of a 5 year used competitor and a 5 year used Sonata and then it does start looking more equal in nature…right? Back to my review.
Hyundai did a complete makeover and thanks to its generous proportions, the Sonata is roomy enough for five adults. The front seats offer 8-way power adjustment.
There is key-less entry and exit and a start stop ignition button to the right of the steering wheel. The instrument panel holds large, readable analog gauges, plus the usual array of warning lights and some important digital readouts.
Both versions of the Sonata have a tilt steering wheel, automatic climate control, power windows/mirrors/door locks, panoramic glass roof and a good sound system which is I-pod ready.
This Sonata’s biggest asset is its driving experience more akin to that of a major German brand. The Sonata’s ride-handling balance is excellent with class is long-distance comfort. There is also hill start assist control and a brake assist system.
Twin front airbags are included and a 300,000 kilometer or 5 year warranty (whichever comes first).
This Sonata is undeniably a quality product, one that offers the amenities and road manners of its best rivals at a reasonable price.
Only its previous models resale value and its questionable previous plastic quality issue prevents many buyers from visiting showrooms today. However with its great new warranty package and reasonable asking price, Hyundai wants to change all the previous negativities in their coming products also.
Hyundai Sonata 2-liter CVVT Specifications
Engine: In-line 4-cylinder Dual CVVT 16-V
Capacity: 1998cc
Gearbox: 6-speed TripTronic
Torque: 165Nm @ 6200rpm
Horsepower: 198bhp @ 4600rpm
Top Speed: 170km/h as tested
Price: RM135,888.00 Standard/RM143,888 High Spec
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