30th Sep 2005, 12:09
I've now had the car for 3 years and I'm still enjoying the ride. Nothing has gone wrong and the car still gives faithful service. It's just had its first MOT, and passed no problems. The front brake pads have just been changed at 21000 miles. I think that's great pad life considering the size of car and that brakes tend to be used more on an automatic. I love this car. I looked at the new 2005 model, and here in the UK it is only offered with a 2.4l engine, and has a lot fewer bells and whistles. I did not see the point in buying a car with a smaller engine and less goodies, so Hyundai have lost a sale there. They need to bring out a model here which is comparable. Unless they do, I shall hang on to Sonata. I don't understand why these cars have not sold better in the UK. The car is superb and the price was a give-away.
30th Sep 2005, 15:47
So nice to see someone giving regular updates to their review.
I don't own a Hyundai (yet), but I completely agree that they have been severely under-rated throughout the years. I suppose this was mostly due to their lack of quality in their startup years (remember the PONY???).
13th Jan 2006, 07:46
I have just taken delivery of the new 2005 model. 2.4 CDX, straight four 16 valve, automatic.
I have to say I am a little puzzled by some of the comments in the motoring press? Such as harsh low speed ride, wallowy handling, average performance and cheap interior materials.
All all cases I would disagree.
The low speed ride can be a little choppy and agreed it may not be up to Jaguar standards, but neither is the cost of the Car! Damping and ride quality overall is very good, and I suspect the car is set up with stiffer suspension for European tastes, the by-product is excellent handling and virtually no body roll. The car doesn't feel as big as it is, (Same size as a BMW 5 Series) which is a great compliment. At motorway speeds it's a whisper quite cruiser. (Cruise Control standard with Auto version)
The performance in auto form is brisk and usable, with good torque, engine noise is not at all intrusive, 0-40mph comes up effortlessly. Add in average mpg 0f 28.6 and it's even more impressive!
Build quality is first class, paint excellent, leather seats very comfortable with rake and reach on the steering wheel. With Air Con, Traction Control, Remote Alarm/locking and 6 airbags, side impact bars and ABS safety features are also very good. I can testify that BFD (Brake force distribution) ABS and Traction control work very well after a Deer ran out in front of me, hard braking and steering at 50mph with no look up, a car still in one peace and one of natures creatures still alive!
With superb legroom, excellent MP3 CD Player, loads of rear legroom, and a cavernous boot, this car is superb value compared with the opposition. And with 5 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty! I would seriously recommend it too anyone.
Jerry Markham.
14th Sep 2006, 16:31
On the 1st September I part exchanged my lovely 2002 Sonata for a brand new Sonata. The car had 25 000 miles on the clock. Not on fault was experienced, and there was no evidence of any deterioration. The car was a complete joy to own. The best 4 years of my motoring life. I assumed that the new type would be even better. I will post a review on the new car a little later on. Things are not looking good at the moment.
30th Nov 2004, 17:57
Just wanted to say that I have now owned the vehicle for 2 years now with 15000 miles on the clock. The love affair continues. Nothing has gone wrong, no squeaks or rattles. This has been a great car. The only possible downside is that I have just had to replace the original front Michelin's. I was rather hoping that they would have given me more mileage. I read various reviews and fitted Pirelli. Still 3 years guarantee remaining. Nice.