2006 Hyundai Sonata SE review from North America

At about 7k miles before I was embarking on a trip, I checked all fluids and noticed the fluid in the coolant reservoir was low. This was the 3rd time I had topped it off, so I took it to the dealer and was told there was a small leak from a drain plug in the engine block. It was taken care of. I still top off the reservoir every time I change the oil, every 5k miles.

Next time it goes to the dealer I will have them check the cooling system. Hasn't overheated, but it should not require a refill at this stage of the game.

Also, the check engine light went on about 1 month ago. Was told by an auto parts store it was an oxygen sensor. The light went out 2 days later. The vehicle runs fine.

This is the first new car I have purchased, and though I think of a car as 4 wheels and an engine to go from point A to point B, I did do my homework.

I did test drive a Camry, Accord, and an Altima, and those are all fine cars. However, for the money and all that this car has, I chose the Sonata. I believe I got a really good deal from the dealership on this car.

The prior comments regarding the gas tank noise and rear suspension noise are true. At this point, I just turn the radio louder. It's not really a big deal to me.

The driver seat is not well padded and it could use lumbar support.

So far I have averaged 25.5 mpg overall. The vehicle is rated at 20 city/30 highway, so it's right on track.

The exterior looks like a Camry, but thousands less, and it has a lot more features than the aforementioned vehicles. And the warranty isn't bad, either.

Summing up, I have no major complaints. It gets me where I want to to, it's roomy and comfortable. Anyone in the market for a mid-size vehicle should at least give the Sonata a look.