Engine choices for the new Sonata has a 2.4-liter inline-4 or 2.0-liter turbo version. Base engine is really all most buyers need, because it makes a powerful 198 horsepower (200 in SE trim) and economic return 26 mpg combined and paired with six-speed automatic. In addition to providing both strong performance and fuel mileage is high, this driveline has a smooth appearance. Turbo ramps up performance with 274 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency combined nearly identical.
All this is even more impressive when you consider that the Sonata is one of only two cars in its segment (Accord is the other) is quite large for a sedan "large" is considered by EPA. 2011 Sonata also offers improvements in driving dynamics to provide more stringent, more tranquil feel, but not quite up to the sports bar Sport Ford Fusion sedan, Nissan Altima and Mazda 6. Suspension SE's sport-tuned trim helps Sonata to inch closer to the bar, but in the process, rose to a little too rough.
Clearly, a Hyundai, Sonata brings a strong value proposition. Despite the fact that the price of the initial situation can be several thousand dollars cheaper than its competitors MSRPs' to the base GLS Sonata offers a host of standard features - such as satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity with iPod and phone book download - which is optional or not her peers. The-top-line Limited, Sonata, meanwhile, is equipped with everything except navigation.
All things considered, the last Sonata managed to stand in the segment which is full of good choices. It is more sophisticated than the Camry and Accord everywhere, and although the Altima, Mazda 6, Ford Fusion and Chevy Malibu also good stuff, Sonata has a price advantage. With a live performance, impressive fuel economy, solid build quality and strong value, we feel that the 2011 Hyundai Sonata will not have trouble climbing the charts.
Body style, trim level and options
2011 Hyundai Sonata is a medium family sedan available in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. Standard on the GLS include 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, heated side view mirrors, tilt and telescoping steering column, trip computer, 60/40-split rear seat, six-speaker stereo (with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, iPod / auxiliary audio jack and steering wheel mounted controls) and Bluetooth to download the phone book.
Two optional software packages are available. One adds alloy wheels, automatic lights and seat eight-way power driver's. The others include everything plus a navigation system and upgraded speakers for the audio system. Sporty SE has all the above (except the navigation system and premium speakers) and adds 18-inch alloy wheels with low profile tires, fog lamps, dark chrome grille, sport-tuned suspension, keyless ignition / entry, leather / cloth upholstery and leather wrapped steering wheel and shift key. Choosing turbo will also add dual-zone automatic climate control. Optional package combines a navigation system with premium speakers and a sunroof.
The luxurious Limited, all SE features (minus the 18-inch wheels, sports suspension and a cloth / leather upholstery) and add side mirror turn signal repeaters, sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats (front and rear), dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview auto-dimming mirrors, an upgraded audio system (with HD radio and CD changer) and unique interior accents (either black or wood grain shiny). Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are also standard. Turbo-SE version adds 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust tips and steering wheel paddle shifters mounted. Bundle only optional Limited package navigation system with backup camera and a premium Infinity speakers.
Powertrains and Performance
Engine is standard on all trim levels of the Hyundai Sonata, injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 198 straight horsepower and 184 pound feet of torque. SE, with dual exhaust, a little more horsepower from 200 hp and 186 lb-ft. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the GLS, while the six-speed automatic optional trim and standard on SE and Limited. A 2.0-liter turbo engine is powerful available on SE and Limited trim levels. This engine produces 274 hp and 269 Nm of torque.
In performance tests, a Sonata GLS 2.4-liter with automatic transmission, acceleration from zero to 60 km / h in 8.2 seconds. As expected, 2.0-liter turbo engine is much faster, requiring only 6.7 seconds.
Sonata has estimated EPA fuel economy is impressive for a car this size. 2.4-liter engine with manual transmission rated at 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 28 combined and 22/35/26 mpg with the automatic. 2.0-liter turbo engine, despite the significant increase in power, has a 22/33/26 mpg is very impressive.
Safety
All good sonatas complete with anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, front seat side airbags, full-length curtain airbags and active front headrests.
The new government, more demanding crash tests for 2011, the Sonata received a top five-star crash protection overall, with four out of five stars for front-impact protection provided and the five stars for side impact protection. In the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests, 2011 Hyundai Sonata ranked highest of the "good" for frontal offset, side impact protection and roof strength.
In brake tests Edmunds, a 2011 Sonata GLS stop from 60 mph in 128 feet. 2.0-liter turbocharged model with a wider tire stop slightly shorter at 120 meters. Both braking distances are slightly better than the average for cars in this class.
Interior Design and Special Features
Fit and finish is very good cab. Controls operate with precision and feeling fit more expensive cars. We're big fans of the iPod interface is standard, easy to use and very fast in operation. Very luxurious Limited trim levels, with color schemes that are available two-tone, black piano finish and padded door panels.
Now classified as a large car, Sonata has enough space for four adults to relax and enjoy the ride. Like most cars will fit, five, even though the rear center passenger will not be as comfortable as the others. Front and rear headroom is only mediocre, but, like the 6-footer will probably find them unpleasant head in the ceiling. The trunk has openings smaller than the norm, but the capacity is 16.4 cubic feet above grade.
Driving impressions
With a well-balanced chassis, 2011 Hyundai Sonata offers a smooth ride and sure-footed handling. Light steering at low speed parking maneuvers easier, although sometimes the Sonata is a little taste of artificial control in rapid transition. Tuning suspension Sonata SE is sporty, but in our tests have found that lead to increased quality rather rough and uncomfortable on rough roads.
The four 2.4-liter strong performance should be enough for most drivers, it is interesting willingly and smoothly up to redline in Tach it. Weighing a seamless automatic switch, and steps down as needed for quick passing or merging. Ability turbocharged engine smooth and linear, with no turbo lag is clear. That the economy returns the same fuel is only icing on the cake.
Features & Specs
- 2.4L 4-cyl. engine
- Automatic transmission
- Up to 24 cty/35 hwy mpg
- Bluetooth
- iPod input
- Satellite radio
- Side/Curtain Airbags
- Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Navigation System (Optional)
