Overview:
This is the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Sport 2.0 T. T for turbocharged and perhaps the most useful and efficient boost to power yet devised. In the Navy we had JATO for Jet Assist Take Off but that was rather expensive solid fuel rockets really. They’re only good for one use, but this Turbo version is good for unlimited use. More importantly you use it only when you want or need it so you control the fuel economy. Lead foot folks will experience some fuel stop discomfort. Just saying….
Sonata is a sure winner in my book and driving a different car virtually every week allows me to say that with confidence. But at the end of the day only you can make the final determination unless you’re married, of course, and then the boss will have to agree. But that being said take that test drive. You’ll be glad you did. And when you see the warranty which is double what the rest of the field offers you will find a lot of value for your hard earned dollar.
General Information: It is assembled in Montgomery Alabama, USA; Parts – US/Canadian 48%, Korea 45%; Engine and transmission – 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.
Handling & Performance:
Excellent driving machine. Turbo power is great and handling is special.
Styling:
Most models have that Hyundai look that is classy and simply smooth flowing lines. When I began the test I was reminded of the first Genesis I had tested. All models have matured and get better every year. Point being is that this Sonata is only one short step up to the Genesis which is perhaps my all-time favorite for value. Nice improvement.
Fit and Finish:
Hyundai good.
Cost:
Competitive in class.
Conveniences and comfort:
Good. It has the basics and even includes one of my very favorite features – the Blind Spot Detector. I find this to be one of better safety features for every car to have. I suspect it will be a required feature in time. So many times I have activated the turn indicator only to be warned there was a car in the intended direction of travel. It is such a good feature I feel helpless without it and the stress level goes up. The number one feature of all time is the Collision avoidance system that will stop your car if you fail to. Fabulous stuff. So much so that I expect the accident rate to drop because of it.
Consumer Recommendations:
I love the Genesis but this Sonata is more affordable and it is very close in stature. The competition is all good but I’ve been impressed with this car for some time now. Give it a test drive and I believe you will see what I mean. Give me a call if you disagree.
Recognized Competition:
Hyundai Sonata $29,000, Kia Optima $28,000, Subaru Legacy $22,000, Nissan Maxima $32,000, Buick Regal$30,000, Toyota Camry $19,000, Chrysler 200 $30,000.
Good News:
Great styling and ride quality, powerful Turbo, great handling and comfort.
Bad News:
None worth mentioning.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 litre 245 horsepower Turbo Gasoline Direct injection 4-cylinder engine, dual continuous variable valve timing, 6-speed automatic transmission, stability management, traction control, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes with brake force distribution, front, side and side curtain airbags, driver knee airbag, tire pressure monitor, blind spot detection, LED running lights, rearview camera, 18” alloy wheels, HID headlights and LED rear tail lights, hands free smart trunk opener, proximity key entry with push button start, sport leather seating with heated front seats, power driver seat, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, cruis audio and phone controls on steering wheel, dual climate control, 7” color touch screen, AM/FM/HD, CD/MP3, Sirius XM radio, bluetooth hands free phone.
Gas Stats:
$2.85 Gal avg. December 7, 2015
for more information.
23 City and 32 Highway MPG07
Pricing:
MSRP $28,925.