2008 Hyundai Sonata Limited
By: Juan G. Robbin
An excellent value, smooth and comfortable, yes it’s a Hyundai
Hyundai Sonata Limited (2008)
The Hyundai Sonata is all grown up. With its pleasing exterior and a size that fits most lifestyles, the Sonata is definitely worth a look if you are looking for a sedan that won’t break the bank. Hyundai has clearly positioned itself as a player in the midsize four door sedan market, offering a great value to those that are looking at the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord but want a lower price.
The front end looks typical Japanese, with its bumper mounted fog lights and its stylish headlights; this is a car that looks good regardless where you arrive. The rear bumper shows off a well balanced tail light area flanked with left and right corner oval chromed exhaust tips.
The standard items list is typically what would be optional on many other cars. Nice items include: Power windows with drivers’ window one touch up and down, auto dimming with digital compass mirror, leather seating surfaces, “Shiftronic” shift function, automatic climate control, active head restraints, steering wheel with audio and cruise control finger-tip buttons, factory installed XM radio capability and many other items are standard.
Driving the new Sonata was a nice surprise. It’s smooth, responsive and strong. Brakes felt excellent with very good feedback. Steering was light, yet direct. The trunk is deep and has a low lip above the bumper for ease of loading/unloading. Rear seat is comfortable for two adults, tight for three and is on par with typical comparable cars this size. The interior felt roomy and bright. The materials used are of good quality, and contemporary design. We did notice the doors felt light and sounded hollow when you closed them, reminding us of the Hyundai of the past. After several hundred miles the Sonata felt more like a Japanese car than a Korean one, and that’s what Hyundai is shooting for.
In the past some people would look at a Hyundai and laugh, this is no longer true. The 2008 Sonata Limited has style, comfort, road presence and is a terrific value for the price.
The Essentials
MSRP: $22,345.00 MSRP (As tested): $24,070.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 22.5 MPG
Engine: 4 Cylinder, 2.4 liter, 162 HP
Popular Options: Sunroof, floor and cargo mats
Visit: www.Hyundai.com