2011 Hyundai Sonata

2011 Hyundai Sonata Vehicle Overview

Hyundai Sonata was inspired by the Camry and Accord? But the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, like a maturing great band that comes into its own, has become worthy of headliner status in the family-sedan arena. Powering the new Sonata is a 2.4-liter inline-4. Notably, this is the only engine offered for now, though there will be turbocharged and hybrid versions available later. In the meantime, though, the base engine is really all most buyers will ever need as it makes a robust 198 horsepower (200 in the SE trim) and returns a thrifty 26 mpg combined when matched to a six-speed automatic. In addition to delivering both brisk performance and high fuel mileage, this drivetrain exhibits a refined demeanor.

The Hyundai Sonata may still be a way from production, but the increased amount of spy photos surfacing tells us that this Hyundai is rapidly approaching its debut. At any rate, the Sonata is looking more impressive with each pic, and the final product looks like a lock to be a vast improvement over an already decent mid-size sedan.

Looking at the Sonata from the side, it’s hard to imagine that it’s one of the shortest mid-size vehicles in the segment. Despite this, the Sonata has the most total interior volume in the segment.

The Sonata’s cabin is just as sculpted as the exterior. There are plenty of lights, buttons and digital displays to give the car a futuristic look. It looks daunting and might take a few hours to master the controls. But, it’s well worth it, as the interior of the 2011 Sonata works better then it looks.

Under the hood, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata gets a new direct-injected DOHC 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder. The base model, which I tested, pumps out 198 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Upgrade to the SE model and receive 200-bhp and 186 lb-ft of torque.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize family sedan available in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. Standard equipment on the GLS includes 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, heated sideview mirrors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, a trip computer, a 60/40-split rear seatback, a six-speaker stereo (with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, iPod/auxiliary audio jacks and steering-wheel-mounted controls) and Bluetooth with phonebook download.

Two optional equipment packages are available. One adds alloy wheels, automatic headlights and an eight-way power driver seat. The other includes all these plus a navigation system and upgraded speakers for the audio system. The sporty SE features all the above (except the navigation system and premium speakers) and adds 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, foglights, a dark chrome grille, a sport-tuned suspension, keyless ignition/entry, leather/cloth upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. An optional package bundles a navigation system with premium speakers and a sunroof.

Powertrains and Performance

The standard and only available engine on all Hyundai Sonata trim levels is a 2.4-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine good for 198 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque. The SE, with its dual exhaust, has a bit more power at 200 hp and 186 lb-ft. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the GLS while a six-speed automatic is optional on that trim and standard on the other two. The Sonata’s EPA fuel economy estimates are impressive for a car of this size. Models with the manual transmission are rated at 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 28 combined, while those with the automatic net a 22/35/26 mpg rating.

Interior Design and Special Features

Fit and finish of the cabin is very good. The controls operate with a feel and precision befitting a more expensive car. We’re big fans of the standard iPod interface, which is easy to use and quite speedy in operation. The Limited trim level is particularly upscale, with its available two-tone color schemes, piano black trim and padded door panels.

Now classified as a large car, the Sonata boasts enough room to allow four adults to stretch out and enjoy the ride. As with most cars, five will fit, though the rear middle passenger won’t be as comfortable as the others. Headroom is just barely adequate front and rear, however, as 6-footers will likely find their heads uncomfortably in the ceiling. The trunk has a slightly smaller opening than the norm, but its 16.4-cubic-foot capacity is at the top of the class.