The Sonata is one of this relatively young company’s longest-running models. The fifth-generation version is, however, all new – giving it a vital distinction over today’s lacklustre model. The extent of the outgoing car’s mediocrity is highlighted by the used market’s willingness to pay just 18 per cent of the list price for it after three years. Experts CAP and Glass’s reckons that will almost double with the new model. So is it doubly more appealing? Certainly you now won’t be embarrassed to drive it. The dimensions are set somewhere in between a Mondeo and an exec saloon, giving it a degree of presence, while the sharply cut lines have some appeal in places. The rear looks like an old Toyota Camry but that’s no bad thing, while you will swear the front headlights and wings have been stolen from an Audi A4. Flattering comparisons, while the 17-inch alloys give it a stance confident enough to carry them off. Special mention too for the paint quality, which is leagues ahead of many other Hyundais.
Inside
New Hyundai Sonata - interior
The improvements continue as you get in, where there’s tight, crisp assembly and some soft-feel materials to enjoy. Initially you’ll be fiddling with the seat height lever, but accept it’s set far too high even on its ‘lowest’ setting and try to forget it, and the lack of side support, because the tidy cabin is the Sonata’s key selling feature. Why? Because, for a £16,495 list price, it is loaded with equipment. Not just all-electric windows, electric mirrors, CD player, air con and trip computer, but luxuries such as full leather interior, MP3-compatible stereo, front fog lamps and ESP stability control. The latter is a first for any Hyundai, reducing the risk of skids, spins or other such drama. Six airbags are an additional passive safety net.
Inside
New Hyundai Sonata - interior
The improvements continue as you get in, where there’s tight, crisp assembly and some soft-feel materials to enjoy. Initially you’ll be fiddling with the seat height lever, but accept it’s set far too high even on its ‘lowest’ setting and try to forget it, and the lack of side support, because the tidy cabin is the Sonata’s key selling feature. Why? Because, for a £16,495 list price, it is loaded with equipment. Not just all-electric windows, electric mirrors, CD player, air con and trip computer, but luxuries such as full leather interior, MP3-compatible stereo, front fog lamps and ESP stability control. The latter is a first for any Hyundai, reducing the risk of skids, spins or other such drama. Six airbags are an additional passive safety net.
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