2009 Sonata Pricing
02-03-08, 06:46 AM
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2009 Sonata Pricing
Interior is a lot better. Good power/mpg numbers.
2.4L 4 cyl: 175 hp, 22/32
3.3L 6 cyl: 249 hp, 19/29
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chicago '08 Preview: 2009 Hyundai Sonata
Posted Feb 3rd 2008 12:02AM by Damon Lavrinc
Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Hyundai
Hyundai recognizes that competition in the mid-size sedan segment is always heating up, so the little automaker that could is bringing a refreshed Sonata to Chicago, sporting a slightly new look, more interior amenities and new powertrains.
The 2009 Hyundai Sonata debuts with a choice of two revised mills that sport more power and fuel economy to rival the sedan's more expensive rivals. The Theta 2.4-cylinder inline-four is now in its second generation and makes 175 horsepower and 169 lb.-ft. of torque with a new five-speed automatic to help carve up the revs. The 3.3-liter V6 gets a 15-hp bump and is now making 249 hp and 229 lb.-ft. of torque. Aside from the upgraded engines, Hyundai is also hyping the Sonata's handling and will be offering a sport-tuned suspension on the SE model.
The exterior revisions are mild, with a new front bumper, grille, lights and wheels, while passengers inside now enjoy a completely revised interior that's much more visually interesting than before and is even available with an optional sat nav, a first for the Sonata. Hit the jump for more info and the official press release from Hyundai.
Three grades of trim will be available when the 2009 Sonata goes on sale later this year, beginning with the 2.4-liter four-equipped GLS. The SE can get motivation from either the inline-four or the V6 and be had with a B&M Racing five-speed manual or the optional auto 'box. It also comes standard with new 17-inch alloys, a spoiler, fog lamps, eight-way power seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Limited offers even more luxury appointments and buyers have the option of either the four-cylinder or the six with a SHIFTRONIC manu-matic five-speed gearbox.
PRESS RELEASE:
2009 SONATA: TRANSFORMED FROM THE INSIDE OUT FOR A MORE PREMIUM AND FUEL-EFFICIENT MID-SIZE SEDAN EXPERIENCE
CHICAGO, February 6, 2008 – As gas prices and competition in the mid-size sedan segment surge, Hyundai is introducing its refreshed Sonata at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show today. The 2009 Sonata features an all-new interior, enhanced suspensions and revised powertrains boasting both improved fuel economy and horsepower. The 2009 Sonata will be available at Hyundai dealers later this month.
The Sonata combines refined design, proven dependability, spirited performance and an extensive list of standard features to increase its appeal to a broader range of customers. For 2009, Sonata raises the bar for value and standard safety technology in the mid-size segment. Hyundai's sales leader boasts new features ranging from standard USB/iPod auxiliary inputs to available navigation and sport-tuned suspension. Combined with Sonata's continued leadership in safety – it remains the only mid-size sedan under $20,000 with standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) – the 2009 American-made Sonata is the smartest choice in the competitive mid-size sedan segment.
CHOICE OF TWO MORE POWERFUL AND FUEL-EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS
The 2009 Sonata debuts Hyundai's second-generation Theta four-cylinder engine. The Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine delivers more horsepower and quicker acceleration, while also improving fuel economy. In fact, the Sonata I4 is now more fuel-efficient than both Camry and Accord four-cylinder engines, delivering an impressive 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway fuel economy rating with the standard five-speed manual transmission or the newly available five-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®. The Theta II is rated at 175 horsepower and 168 lb.-ft. of torque. This high-tech, all-aluminum, 16-valve engine now features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both camshafts and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. A version of this engine also meets Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards.
Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline-four cylinder engine
Sonata's 3.3-liter V6 engine has also been improved for more performance and efficiency. It now pumps out 15 more horsepower and three more pound-feet of torque (249 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 229 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm). The first member of Hyundai's "Lambda" V6 engine family, this newly refined powerplant features all-aluminum construction, dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, CVVT on both camshafts and stiffer hydraulic engine mounts for optimum power, efficiency and refinement. A variable intake system is added for 2009, which further broadens its power curve, improving off-the-line acceleration and passing performance. New mileage figures for V6-powered Sonatas are 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway, which represents unsurpassed V6 fuel economy in the mid-size sedan segment.
All V6-powered Sonatas use Hyundai's five-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission, which features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. Neither Accord nor Camry offer manual-mode operation as standard equipment. The automatic transmission has a new reducing valve and solenoid valve for smoother shift quality while the manual transmission has been refined for more precise shifts.
A NEW, WELL-CRAFTED INTERIOR THAT IS STILL A "CLASS ABOVE"
The pleasant surprises continue inside where Hyundai designers have thoroughly revamped the cockpit to create the ambiance of an upscale, premium sedan. The sophisticated look is achieved thanks to a completely new center console and instrument panel, which borrows design cues and rich materials from the premium Hyundai Veracruz. The Sonata continues to be classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a Large Car, truly a "class above" Camry, Altima, Fusion and Malibu (all are categorized as mid-size cars). Even in trunk room, the Sonata shines. Sonata's 16.3 cu. ft. of trunk space give it an eight percent advantage over the Camry, and a 16 percent advantage over Accord.
Music lovers will welcome the 2009 Sonata's inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks (3.5 mm mini-jack and USB input) to accommodate and charge audio devices such as iPods®. Among the other refinements are the addition of dual-zone climate controls for the driver and front-seat passenger, and two-stage front seat warmers. A new factory-installed touch screen navigation system is now available as well.
More contrast has been added to the Camel and Gray interiors, and for the first time ever, Cocoa Brown is available. The front cupholders are also upgraded for more capacity and holding power. Hyundai's signature blue backlighting for interior gauges, switches and buttons highlights the vehicle's modern interior design.
SUPPLE RIDE, AGILE HANDLING
An advanced four-wheel independent suspension system combines a supple ride with sharper handling and steering response for Sonata GLS and Limited models. Up front is a double-wishbone system with coil springs, revalved, twin-tube, gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers, and a larger 26 mm stabilizer bar. The system's lower control arms increase handling precision while reducing vibration, and bushing size has been increased to better absorb the shock from road impacts.
In back, a new sophisticated multi-link system provides excellent handling along with superb ride quality and noise isolation. The rear spring rates have been increased by five percent, shocks revalved and the sway bar thickened from 15 mm to 16 mm. All together, this suspension now provides superior control of ride motions for a more dynamic driving experience.
The high-performance Sonata SE becomes an even more exciting and willing partner for enthusiastic drivers with its own unique sport-tuned suspension. The new sport-tuned suspension features a 15 percent stiffer front spring rate, 10 percent stiffer rear spring rate, unique strut valving at all four corners and 27 mm front and 17 mm rear stabilizer bars along with unique 17-inch alloy wheels and tires.
All Sonatas also now have quicker ratio steering for a crisp feel on turn in.
SOPHISTICATED EXTERIOR DESIGN
The design team added a more refined touch to Sonata's exterior design, with new bumpers, lamps, wheels and grille creating a more elegant, dynamic and taut stance.
The unibody design crafted of high-tensile steel features a concave hood design, distinctive rear-door cut lines, strong Z-lined body-to-bumper interfaces and four-barrel jeweled projector lens headlights. New chrome bodyside and bumper moldings match the chrome grille and chrome-accented exterior door handles on Limited models. The model range offers a choice of seven new colors.
UNSURPASSED ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY
On the safety side, 2009 Sonata's front collision performance has been further improved by tweaking the design of the engine subframe. The Hyundai Sonata is expected to earn the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) top five-star crash test rating for front and side impacts. This accomplishment was made possible by Sonata's strong body structure and advanced airbag technology. Sonata delivers an unsurpassed commitment to both active and passive safety technology. Every Sonata has lifesaving ESC as standard equipment. This is important because NHTSA has reported that ESC results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars.
The Sonata also features a state-of-the-art braking technology package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) that includes Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on the vehicle loading conditions.
In the event that a crash is unavoidable, the Sonata features six airbags-including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags-along with active front-seat head restraints. Other passive safety features include shingle-style rear-seat head restraints for improved visibility, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front-seat seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and a rear-seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for child seats.
THREE ENHANCED, WELL-EQUIPPED MODELS
From the well-equipped GLS, to the sport-focused SE, to the downright luxurious Limited, the 2009 Sonata lineup addresses the needs and desires of mid-size sedan customers with a highly competitive mix of features and benefits. Each model delivers a level of standard equipment that is a cut above competing models.
SONATA GLS
The 2009 Sonata GLS continues to provide value and a sizable price advantage compared with its four-cylinder competition, undercutting the lesser-equipped base 2008 Honda Accord and 2008 Toyota Camry. All Sonata models have offered standard ESC since May 2005. This is important, as NHTSA claims ESC is the most effective lifesaving technology since the seatbelt. In comparison, Toyota still offers ESC only as an option on the 2008 Camry, while Honda Accord has only recently matched Sonata with standard ESC on the new 2008 Accord, more than two years after Sonata made this commitment to active safety technology leadership.
Sonata features a new, sophisticated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine matched to a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission, with a new five-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission optional.
The Sonata GLS features an impressive array of standard active and passive safety features including ESC, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), six airbags, ABS and active front head restraints. Other standard features include power windows, door locks and outside heated side mirrors, keyless entry with alarm, an AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, air conditioning, cruise control and tilt-adjustable steering column.
The Popular Equipment Package includes automatic headlights, chrome window belt moldings, woodgrain interior accents, power driver seat with adjustable lumbar support, steering wheel audio controls and a trip computer. A sunroof is also available.
SONATA SE – I4 OR V6 PERFORMANCE, REMARKABLE VALUE
The sport-focused SE adds a unique sport-tuned suspension as standard equipment, matched with a smooth-shifting B&M Racing five-speed manual transmission (2.4L four-cylinder) or optional five-speed automatic (3.3L V6). Other performance-oriented SE features include 17-inch alloy wheels with unique, handling-focused 215/55R17 all-season performance tires, rear decklid spoiler, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift ****, special cloth seats with leather bolsters, and an eight-way power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support. SE tires feature stiffer sidewalls and a unique tread design for more responsive steering and capable handling. The Sonata SE V6 adds dual chrome exhaust tips.
Other standard features include automatic headlights, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, chrome window belt moldings, telescoping steering wheel and a trip computer. The Premium Package includes an AM/FM/XM/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system with USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs, six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier, power tilt-and-slide sunroof, and an electrochromic auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink® and a compass.
SONATA LIMITED
The feature-packed Sonata Limited is a fully equipped luxury model for mid-size sedan buyers who want it all-at a great price. The interior features luxurious leather seating surfaces, a standard Infinity AM/FM/XM Satellite/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system with six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier, an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats and power sunroof. Other upgrades include automatic temperature control, an electrochromic auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink and compass, sliding center armrest, premium scuff plates and 215/55R17 tires. The Sonata Limited is so well equipped that the only option besides the engine choice is a navigation system. Sonata Limited four-cylinder and V6 models feature a five-speed automatic transmission with the added control of SHIFTRONIC manual shifting.
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2009-...sonata/620613/
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/03/c...yundai-sonata/
2.4L 4 cyl: 175 hp, 22/32
3.3L 6 cyl: 249 hp, 19/29
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chicago '08 Preview: 2009 Hyundai Sonata
Posted Feb 3rd 2008 12:02AM by Damon Lavrinc
Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Hyundai
Hyundai recognizes that competition in the mid-size sedan segment is always heating up, so the little automaker that could is bringing a refreshed Sonata to Chicago, sporting a slightly new look, more interior amenities and new powertrains.
The 2009 Hyundai Sonata debuts with a choice of two revised mills that sport more power and fuel economy to rival the sedan's more expensive rivals. The Theta 2.4-cylinder inline-four is now in its second generation and makes 175 horsepower and 169 lb.-ft. of torque with a new five-speed automatic to help carve up the revs. The 3.3-liter V6 gets a 15-hp bump and is now making 249 hp and 229 lb.-ft. of torque. Aside from the upgraded engines, Hyundai is also hyping the Sonata's handling and will be offering a sport-tuned suspension on the SE model.
The exterior revisions are mild, with a new front bumper, grille, lights and wheels, while passengers inside now enjoy a completely revised interior that's much more visually interesting than before and is even available with an optional sat nav, a first for the Sonata. Hit the jump for more info and the official press release from Hyundai.
Three grades of trim will be available when the 2009 Sonata goes on sale later this year, beginning with the 2.4-liter four-equipped GLS. The SE can get motivation from either the inline-four or the V6 and be had with a B&M Racing five-speed manual or the optional auto 'box. It also comes standard with new 17-inch alloys, a spoiler, fog lamps, eight-way power seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Limited offers even more luxury appointments and buyers have the option of either the four-cylinder or the six with a SHIFTRONIC manu-matic five-speed gearbox.
PRESS RELEASE:
2009 SONATA: TRANSFORMED FROM THE INSIDE OUT FOR A MORE PREMIUM AND FUEL-EFFICIENT MID-SIZE SEDAN EXPERIENCE
CHICAGO, February 6, 2008 – As gas prices and competition in the mid-size sedan segment surge, Hyundai is introducing its refreshed Sonata at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show today. The 2009 Sonata features an all-new interior, enhanced suspensions and revised powertrains boasting both improved fuel economy and horsepower. The 2009 Sonata will be available at Hyundai dealers later this month.
The Sonata combines refined design, proven dependability, spirited performance and an extensive list of standard features to increase its appeal to a broader range of customers. For 2009, Sonata raises the bar for value and standard safety technology in the mid-size segment. Hyundai's sales leader boasts new features ranging from standard USB/iPod auxiliary inputs to available navigation and sport-tuned suspension. Combined with Sonata's continued leadership in safety – it remains the only mid-size sedan under $20,000 with standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) – the 2009 American-made Sonata is the smartest choice in the competitive mid-size sedan segment.
CHOICE OF TWO MORE POWERFUL AND FUEL-EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS
The 2009 Sonata debuts Hyundai's second-generation Theta four-cylinder engine. The Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine delivers more horsepower and quicker acceleration, while also improving fuel economy. In fact, the Sonata I4 is now more fuel-efficient than both Camry and Accord four-cylinder engines, delivering an impressive 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway fuel economy rating with the standard five-speed manual transmission or the newly available five-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®. The Theta II is rated at 175 horsepower and 168 lb.-ft. of torque. This high-tech, all-aluminum, 16-valve engine now features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both camshafts and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. A version of this engine also meets Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards.
Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline-four cylinder engine
Sonata's 3.3-liter V6 engine has also been improved for more performance and efficiency. It now pumps out 15 more horsepower and three more pound-feet of torque (249 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 229 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm). The first member of Hyundai's "Lambda" V6 engine family, this newly refined powerplant features all-aluminum construction, dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, CVVT on both camshafts and stiffer hydraulic engine mounts for optimum power, efficiency and refinement. A variable intake system is added for 2009, which further broadens its power curve, improving off-the-line acceleration and passing performance. New mileage figures for V6-powered Sonatas are 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway, which represents unsurpassed V6 fuel economy in the mid-size sedan segment.
All V6-powered Sonatas use Hyundai's five-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission, which features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. Neither Accord nor Camry offer manual-mode operation as standard equipment. The automatic transmission has a new reducing valve and solenoid valve for smoother shift quality while the manual transmission has been refined for more precise shifts.
A NEW, WELL-CRAFTED INTERIOR THAT IS STILL A "CLASS ABOVE"
The pleasant surprises continue inside where Hyundai designers have thoroughly revamped the cockpit to create the ambiance of an upscale, premium sedan. The sophisticated look is achieved thanks to a completely new center console and instrument panel, which borrows design cues and rich materials from the premium Hyundai Veracruz. The Sonata continues to be classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a Large Car, truly a "class above" Camry, Altima, Fusion and Malibu (all are categorized as mid-size cars). Even in trunk room, the Sonata shines. Sonata's 16.3 cu. ft. of trunk space give it an eight percent advantage over the Camry, and a 16 percent advantage over Accord.
Music lovers will welcome the 2009 Sonata's inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks (3.5 mm mini-jack and USB input) to accommodate and charge audio devices such as iPods®. Among the other refinements are the addition of dual-zone climate controls for the driver and front-seat passenger, and two-stage front seat warmers. A new factory-installed touch screen navigation system is now available as well.
More contrast has been added to the Camel and Gray interiors, and for the first time ever, Cocoa Brown is available. The front cupholders are also upgraded for more capacity and holding power. Hyundai's signature blue backlighting for interior gauges, switches and buttons highlights the vehicle's modern interior design.
SUPPLE RIDE, AGILE HANDLING
An advanced four-wheel independent suspension system combines a supple ride with sharper handling and steering response for Sonata GLS and Limited models. Up front is a double-wishbone system with coil springs, revalved, twin-tube, gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers, and a larger 26 mm stabilizer bar. The system's lower control arms increase handling precision while reducing vibration, and bushing size has been increased to better absorb the shock from road impacts.
In back, a new sophisticated multi-link system provides excellent handling along with superb ride quality and noise isolation. The rear spring rates have been increased by five percent, shocks revalved and the sway bar thickened from 15 mm to 16 mm. All together, this suspension now provides superior control of ride motions for a more dynamic driving experience.
The high-performance Sonata SE becomes an even more exciting and willing partner for enthusiastic drivers with its own unique sport-tuned suspension. The new sport-tuned suspension features a 15 percent stiffer front spring rate, 10 percent stiffer rear spring rate, unique strut valving at all four corners and 27 mm front and 17 mm rear stabilizer bars along with unique 17-inch alloy wheels and tires.
All Sonatas also now have quicker ratio steering for a crisp feel on turn in.
SOPHISTICATED EXTERIOR DESIGN
The design team added a more refined touch to Sonata's exterior design, with new bumpers, lamps, wheels and grille creating a more elegant, dynamic and taut stance.
The unibody design crafted of high-tensile steel features a concave hood design, distinctive rear-door cut lines, strong Z-lined body-to-bumper interfaces and four-barrel jeweled projector lens headlights. New chrome bodyside and bumper moldings match the chrome grille and chrome-accented exterior door handles on Limited models. The model range offers a choice of seven new colors.
UNSURPASSED ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY
On the safety side, 2009 Sonata's front collision performance has been further improved by tweaking the design of the engine subframe. The Hyundai Sonata is expected to earn the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) top five-star crash test rating for front and side impacts. This accomplishment was made possible by Sonata's strong body structure and advanced airbag technology. Sonata delivers an unsurpassed commitment to both active and passive safety technology. Every Sonata has lifesaving ESC as standard equipment. This is important because NHTSA has reported that ESC results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars.
The Sonata also features a state-of-the-art braking technology package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) that includes Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on the vehicle loading conditions.
In the event that a crash is unavoidable, the Sonata features six airbags-including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags-along with active front-seat head restraints. Other passive safety features include shingle-style rear-seat head restraints for improved visibility, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front-seat seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and a rear-seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for child seats.
THREE ENHANCED, WELL-EQUIPPED MODELS
From the well-equipped GLS, to the sport-focused SE, to the downright luxurious Limited, the 2009 Sonata lineup addresses the needs and desires of mid-size sedan customers with a highly competitive mix of features and benefits. Each model delivers a level of standard equipment that is a cut above competing models.
SONATA GLS
The 2009 Sonata GLS continues to provide value and a sizable price advantage compared with its four-cylinder competition, undercutting the lesser-equipped base 2008 Honda Accord and 2008 Toyota Camry. All Sonata models have offered standard ESC since May 2005. This is important, as NHTSA claims ESC is the most effective lifesaving technology since the seatbelt. In comparison, Toyota still offers ESC only as an option on the 2008 Camry, while Honda Accord has only recently matched Sonata with standard ESC on the new 2008 Accord, more than two years after Sonata made this commitment to active safety technology leadership.
Sonata features a new, sophisticated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine matched to a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission, with a new five-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission optional.
The Sonata GLS features an impressive array of standard active and passive safety features including ESC, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), six airbags, ABS and active front head restraints. Other standard features include power windows, door locks and outside heated side mirrors, keyless entry with alarm, an AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, air conditioning, cruise control and tilt-adjustable steering column.
The Popular Equipment Package includes automatic headlights, chrome window belt moldings, woodgrain interior accents, power driver seat with adjustable lumbar support, steering wheel audio controls and a trip computer. A sunroof is also available.
SONATA SE – I4 OR V6 PERFORMANCE, REMARKABLE VALUE
The sport-focused SE adds a unique sport-tuned suspension as standard equipment, matched with a smooth-shifting B&M Racing five-speed manual transmission (2.4L four-cylinder) or optional five-speed automatic (3.3L V6). Other performance-oriented SE features include 17-inch alloy wheels with unique, handling-focused 215/55R17 all-season performance tires, rear decklid spoiler, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift ****, special cloth seats with leather bolsters, and an eight-way power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support. SE tires feature stiffer sidewalls and a unique tread design for more responsive steering and capable handling. The Sonata SE V6 adds dual chrome exhaust tips.
Other standard features include automatic headlights, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, chrome window belt moldings, telescoping steering wheel and a trip computer. The Premium Package includes an AM/FM/XM/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system with USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs, six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier, power tilt-and-slide sunroof, and an electrochromic auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink® and a compass.
SONATA LIMITED
The feature-packed Sonata Limited is a fully equipped luxury model for mid-size sedan buyers who want it all-at a great price. The interior features luxurious leather seating surfaces, a standard Infinity AM/FM/XM Satellite/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system with six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier, an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats and power sunroof. Other upgrades include automatic temperature control, an electrochromic auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink and compass, sliding center armrest, premium scuff plates and 215/55R17 tires. The Sonata Limited is so well equipped that the only option besides the engine choice is a navigation system. Sonata Limited four-cylinder and V6 models feature a five-speed automatic transmission with the added control of SHIFTRONIC manual shifting.
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2009-...sonata/620613/
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/03/c...yundai-sonata/
Last edited by carguy101; 02-03-08 at 06:50 AM.
02-03-08, 08:48 AM
#2
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (20)
Wow...
02-03-08, 11:01 AM
#4
Lexus Champion
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Redondo Beach, CA
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The Sonata is one car I actually ask for now when I rent from Hertz. Usually I find something like a G6 or Taurus waiting for me, and I march right back to the booth to get something actually drivable. The Sonata's interior, while not quite as plush as the 2009 looks like it will be, is indeed every bit the match of the Accord or Camry. It rides smoothly, has adequate power and handling, and is well-proportioned. Whoever thinks the Koreans haven't arrived in the world of carmaking hasn't taken a look at a Hyundai lately!
02-03-08, 11:50 AM
#6
Lexus Fanatic
If you are renting a car in bad weather, though, ask for an AWD Taurus (or Fusion) if Hertz has them. One of the Sonata's few faults is the lack of an AWD version.
02-03-08, 01:17 PM
#7
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (20)
Because, right now, it doesn't have to be, or rather I think that's Toyota's view. Their bean counters and product strategists are seeming more and more like GM's of the 80's than ever. Cut a bit here, cut a bit there... no one will notice. 
The Venza interior is a positive sign though... I bet they refresh the Camry interior soon.
The Venza interior is a positive sign though... I bet they refresh the Camry interior soon.
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02-03-08, 01:46 PM
#9
Lexus Fanatic
I saw the pics of the new interior in a new Car and Driver comparo and I am impressed. The new interior looks very nice and the dash more or less mimicks a luxury car interior, the new Altima interior looks pretty nice too but not as nice as this new Sonata. I would say it is just a little step below the new Accord interior but much nicer then the rest of its competition. Unfortunately the new Sonota dash even looks a little more modern and nicer then the new Hyundia rwd luxury sedan that is coming out.
02-03-08, 02:23 PM
#10
Lexus Champion
Because, right now, it doesn't have to be, or rather I think that's Toyota's view. Their bean counters and product strategists are seeming more and more like GM's of the 80's than ever. Cut a bit here, cut a bit there... no one will notice.
The Venza interior is a positive sign though... I bet they refresh the Camry interior soon.
The Venza interior is a positive sign though... I bet they refresh the Camry interior soon.
Last year Camry sold 473,108 cars (+5.2%) and Sonata sold 145,568 cars
(-2.6%). With continuing improvements to the Sonata, Malibu, new gen Accord etc. Toyota will be wise to keep their eye on the ball. If history is any guide, I think/hope they probably will.
02-04-08, 04:16 AM
#14
Interior
I think it looks nice in general but not down/ the open cup holders - I just see all kinds of dust & particles getting in there that will be hard to get out.
Interesting that there is only D & nothing else like 2 or L, I guess it is rare people use that mode & perhaps thats what the sport shifter is for?
Interesting that there is only D & nothing else like 2 or L, I guess it is rare people use that mode & perhaps thats what the sport shifter is for?
02-04-08, 05:20 AM
#15
Lexus Fanatic
Because, right now, it doesn't have to be, or rather I think that's Toyota's view. Their bean counters and product strategists are seeming more and more like GM's of the 80's than ever. Cut a bit here, cut a bit there... no one will notice.
The Venza interior is a positive sign though... I bet they refresh the Camry interior soon.
The Venza interior is a positive sign though... I bet they refresh the Camry interior soon.
Hyundai also needs to so something along those lines. The new Sonata would be an excellent platform to start from for a mid-sized, Outback-type sedan or wagon with AWD. The AWD hardware and drivetrain is already in place on the Tuscon and Santa Fe. But it would be hard to beat Subaru's AWD system.....IMO it is simply the best in the under-35K category.
Last edited by mmarshall; 02-04-08 at 05:25 AM.