Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Sport 2.0 T. Hyundai began in 1967 to build the Cortina for Ford. Today they build their own Robot’s to manufacture and make their own steel. That’s what you call Vertical Integration.
Recently I had had the opportunity to observe Hyundai’s Trailer Manufacturing company (they manufacture in Tijuana, Mexico). I also have a connection with Western Star large trucks and have toured their manufacturing facility. The vast number of trucks produced are consumed in the United States. The largest Truck / Tractor is made by Freightliner owned by Daimler Mercedes-Benz. You guessed it, Freightliner Trucks are also (now) manufactured in Mexico since they moved from Oregon during the past couple of years. Just another exodus from the tyranny of American business by its government.
General Information: It is assembled in Montgomery Alabama, USA, Classification is Large Cars. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Tucson, Veloster, Veracruz.
Opinion:
As a follow on to my comment above that the exodus of American business to other countries and right to work states it is important to remind us all from time to time how the Union’s have also contributed to the downfall of the US auto industry. Companies like Daimler and Hyundai are forced to move out of the US to build their trucks and trailers in a more friendly atmosphere and with less government regulation and Union interference in the form or coercive demands.
But Hyundai also manufacturers some cars like this Sonata right in the heart of America. They are non-union because the Korean culture hate unions and avoid the strangle hold they get on companies when they get a foothold. But the cars they build in the US employ folks who were displaced by the inefficient US Big Three who are burdened by Unions. Unions single handedly are destroying the US auto industry along with so many other business they intimidate. They have even sunk their poisonous fangs into state and local government agencies that were never intended to be unionized. We all agree Unions had a place in history just like Slavery but both are unnecessary in today’s world.
Handling & Performance:
Fuel economy… now that’s what I’m talking about! And for a sedan this Sonata is stingy on fuel for a large car. It is also a nice handling car and a comfortable and quiet ride that I can always count on for a nice driving experience.
Styling:
Very stylish in our world of cars and the look is far more elegant than the price tag would indicate. When the car was delivered I took a first look at a distance and didn’t think it was my car. I didn’t have a Mercedes scheduled. But as I approached I noticed the Hyundai logo. Nice, I thought, this has also improved nicely since its introduction in 1985.
Fit and Finish: Very nice.
Cost: Competitive in class… meaning they are all about the same money to purchase.
Conveniences and comfort:
The standard features noted here is a good long list for the money, and the options are discussed below if $5,000 doesn’t dissuade you.
Consumer Recommendations:
The name Hyundai continues to grow in recognition as a product that stands for quality and value.
Standard features are very good and although the options add about $5,000 to the price tag I suggest you look at them closely. Consider the list and although all are nice to have a few stand out. I’d select Land Departure, Smart Cruise, and Forward Collision Warning. The rest of the options are based on your preference…. Me I could live without the rest.
Recognized Competition:
Hyundai Sonata $29,000, Honda Accord Sedan Sport $25,000, Volkswagen Passat 1.8T Sport $27,000, Nissan Altama Sedan 2.5 SL $28,000, Chevrolet Malibu 3LT $27,000.
Good News: Good value in purchase price and operating cost, comfortable, fast, great styling.
Bad News: Bluetooth set up was impossible and I do this a lot. The manual was no help.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 245 horsepower turbo gas injection 4-cylinder engine, dual continuous variable valve timing, 6-speed automatic transmission with manual paddle shifting, stability management, traction control, antilock brake system with brake force distribution and brake assist, front, side and side curtain and driver knee airbags, blind spot detection system with rear cross traffic alert, tire pressure monitor for individual indicators, LED daytime running lights, rearview camera, sport tuned suspension and steering, 18” alloy wheels, HID Headlights and LED Taillights, hands free smart trunk opener, proximity key entry with push button start, sport leather seating with heated front seats, power driver seat with lumbar support, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, tilt & telescopic steering wheel with cruise, audio and phone controls, climate control, 5” color touch screen audio display, AM/FM/CD/MP3 with iPod/ USB & auxiliary input jacks, SIRIUS XM radio, Bluetooth hands free phone system.
Options:
$4,950 for Sunroof, smart cruise control, Lane departure warning, Electronic parking brake, auto high beam assist, rear parking assistance, memory system for settings, power passenger seat, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, rear side window sunshades, Navigation system with 8” screen.
Gas Stats: $3.35/ Gal avg. October 26, 2014
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
23 City and 32 Highway MPG
Pricing: MSRP $28,575