2018 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0T
An Automotive Love Affair
By Joe Mavilia
Overview:
This is the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0T (for Turbocharged).
As we progress in the automotive industry we see such seeming advances in promised miraculous leaps into ‘green’ electric cars or ‘autonomous’ driverless cars. Can we really believe the claims? Well, we should be reminded that advances claimed simply don’t happen overnight. It will be 2038, in my estimation, before you see these promises become even remotely a reality.
Before it can happen, you and I will be expected to be the Ginny pigs who’ll have to be convinced we should gladly be on the cutting edge of technology and innovation. Yep, it is the consumer who will pay for any and all misguided moves in this industry or any industry for that matter.
In the meantime, if you don’t want to bear the cost, I suggest you enjoy the drive of real cars that are here, Now, and are reliable and have been for over 100 years. They have been and will be for the foreseeable future simply amazing vehicles for work and transportation.
General Information:
It is assembled in : Montgomery, Alabama, USA; Parts : US/Canadian 38%, Korea 51%; Engine and transmission – USA; Classification is : Large Cars. Cars from Hyundai : Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra GT, Santa Fe,Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Sonata Plug-in Hybrid, Tucson and Veloster.
Handling & Performance:
Drive Mode select: This is a system to monitor and modify engine throttle response, transmission shift points and steering to provide optimal performance. There are three modes: Normal (general comfort setting), sport (dynamic driving) and ECO (conserving fuel) all by the push of a button on the console.
Styling:
You’ve gotta love the look and feel that will remain stylish for many years to come. That is important for any significant investment.
Fit and Finish:
I have found Hyundai and Kia cars always fit together very well. They are still the ‘new kid on the block’ and have to try harder to please us.
Cost:
Very well priced. Thirty grand is very fair for the value provided by this large family sedan.
Conveniences and comfort:
One of my favorite features is smart cruise control, but be aware they are not all the same. Be sure you get the best available, like this Hyundai Sonata version. It has a Stop/Start capability that, for example, Toyota products don’t. It has been my observation that it a distinction not to be lightly taken. In the case of Toyota, the system cuts out at 25 MPH and disengages, which to me is dangerous. Watch for the difference when you test drive the car.
Another feature to look at closely is the proximity key and push button start. It is a great convenience you will love and I believe you too will want to include in your next car.
Consumer Recommendations:
Following is a great field of competition and only you can find the best fit for your need. Not so many that you can’t look at them all.
Recognised Competition:
| Brand | $$$ Cost | MPG Avg | Seating | Doors | Country of Origin | Assembled |
| Hyundai Sonata | 33,000 | 26 | 5 | 4 | Korea | USA |
| Ford Fusion | 33,000 | 23 | 5 | 4 | USA | Mexico |
| Acura TLX | 34,000 | 27 | 5 | 4 | Japan | USA |
| Chevrolet Malibu | 32,000 | 26 | 5 | 4 | USA | USA |
| Kia Optima | 31,000 | 25 | 5 | 4 | Korea | USA |
| Toyota Camry | 35,000 | 26 | 5 | 4 | Japan | USA |
Good News:
Affordable, comfortable large family sedan, powerful yet drive mode select allows you to go from economy driving to sport speed and handling.
Bad News:
N/A.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 248 horsepower 4-cylinder turbo direct injection engine, dual continuous variable valve timing, 8-speed automatic transmission, drive mode select, smart cruise control with stop/start capability, electronic parking brake, 18” Alloy wheels, power sunroof, rear window sunshades, leather sport seats, proximity key entry with push button start, heated and ventilated front power seats and heated steering wheel, dual zone climate control, 8” touch screen/ Navigation system, stability control, traction control, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes with brake force distribution, front, side and side curtain airbags, driver knee airbag, rear view camera, blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert, dual climate control, AM/FM/HD radio system with 6-speakers, Sirius XM radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Blue Link Connected services, steering wheel mounted audio controls.
Gas Stats:
$3.49-Gal avg. April 1, 2018
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
23 City and 32 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $32,450.
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