Hyundai - Sonata

1998-02  2002-05 

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Third generation Sonata is an executive saloon for sub-Mondeo money. No match for traditional Euro-execs, but it does nothing badly and is a value choice as a comfortable cruiser.

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	Lots of comfortable car for not much money
	Lively engines give good performance
	Generous equipment levels
	Hyundai badge has little status
	Styling lacks subtlety or sophistication
	Will continue to lose value rapidly

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Hyundai made inroads in the UK economy car sector but fared less well with their bigger models. Status and heritage are everything in the executive sector; precisely the areas where Sonata falls short.
Sonata is easy to own thanks to good reliability, reasonable fuel economy and low prices. Just don't expect it to be sought after or worth much when you come to resell. Apart from the badge, a major factor that kills Sonata's rational appeal is its horrible facial grin.
Inside, there's plenty to feel pleased about. The big cabin has lots of legroom, noise levels are low unless the engines are revved hard, equipment includes air con and the usual executive goodies (including leather seats on the V6), and there's a roomy boot.
There's little to choose between 2.0 and V6 in performance terms, so the 2.0 makes more sense. It drinks less and is cheaper to insure.