2002 Hyundai Sonata GL review from North America

Nothing special to say:

- Hyundai chrome trims are cheap, an exterior chrome trim ($50) and a door handle ($50) had to be changed. Door handle was really sharp; my girlfriend cut herself on the chipped chrome.

- The key cylinder of the trunk doesn't work either, I have to use the inside pop up button.

- Speakers are really great, but the radio unit is really cheap. Low power and broken when I bought the car.

It's a brilliant car that offerings high end feature for low price, the V6 version offering decent performance.

I had previously driven a 6 in-line Supra powered Cressida, and I found the same great performance in the Sonata (even better, top speed and acceleration).

This FWD car has a good balance between stiff handling and smooth ride. In case of a sporty ride, the car is really predictable. The Shift-Tronic system provides strong and precise shifting; in < drive > you've got a normal hesitating automatic transmission.

The interior is enough comfortable for long rides, and it’s well equipped. Power windows, power doors lock system, enough passenger lights and 2 well made cup holder in front. Fabric and mats are well made and quite resistant. The trunk is accessible and the spare tire is well placed for a big trunk capacity. The car is easy for basic maintenance $$$.