Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2013 Hyundai Sonata GLS that like its siblings has sweeping artistic lines that are clean and aerodynamic. Seating is roomy with ‘sofa-like’ comfort. Instruments are crystal clear.
This is perhaps the most popular and talked about and newest of cars from South Korea. Economically speaking this is the proper way to re-distribute world wealth. They make money the old fashioned way —- they earn it. No one is forcing us to buy their products but for the quality and economical operation built in we do buy in large numbers. Thanks Hyundai.
General Information: Parts from the US / Canada 41%; Korea 58%. It is assembled in Montgomery, Alabama, 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:
Active ECO when turned on gives you different power characteristics to allow you to change the driving style to increase fuel economy by approximately 10%.
Styling:
All Hyundai models to my eye are nice looking that mimic German and Japanese offerings hugely less expensive.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
You’ve gotta be impressed with the great value on this lineup of competition. For me the Hyundai brand is very aggressive in grabbing their share of the market. Look closely at this option and you will notice a growing number on the highway. It used to be the Japanese dominated market growth but there is another Sheriff in town.
Conveniences and comfort:
Outstanding.
Consumer Recommendation:
The competition is tight good options for 5 passenger large sedans. It makes the process longer but interesting. And it can be fun paring the search to the one that fits your budget. But if you print your own money I like the Hyundai Equus for about $65,000.
Recognized Competition:
Hyundai Sonata $21,000, Acura TSX $31,000, Buick LaCross $32,000, Buick Regal $29,000, Chevrolet Impala $26,000, Chevrolet Malibu $19,000, Chrysler 200 $19,000, Dodge Avenger $19,000, Dodge Charger $26,000, Ford Fusion $22,000, Kia Optima $21,000, Mazda 6 $21,000, Nissan Altima $22,000, Nissan Maxima $33,000, Subaru Legacy $20,000, Suzuki Kizashi $19,000, Toyota Camry $22,000, Volkswagen Jetta $18,000, Volkswagen Passat $21,000.
Good News:
Great styling, decent fuel economy for a powerful luxury car, lots of great features and options available, it is priced very well and is a comfortable ride that looks elegant.
Bad News:
Noticeably absent
Standard Equipment:
2.4 liter GDI (gas direct injection) 190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, dual continuous variable valve timing, active ECO system, 6-speed automatic transmission, electronic stability control, traction control, 4-wheel ABS (anti-lock) power disc brakes with brake force distribution, front side and side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitor, 16” alloy wheels, remote keyless entry with alarm, power windows and locks, heated mirrors, cloth seating, 60/40 split folding rear seat, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with cruise, audio and phone controls, air conditioning, audio with XM,CD,MP3 with iPod/ USB and Aux input jacks, Bluetooth hands free phone and trip computer.
Gas Stats:
$4.03 / Gal avg. March 19, 2013
For more information.
24 City and 35 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $20,995.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
