12th Place: 2009 Hyundai Sonata

Overview:

Against its competitors, the revised 2009 Sonata is top-notch. With further improvements to its already-capable interior quality and ergonomics, acceleration, fuel economy, and refinement, and its existing merits of highly competitive pricing, a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and strong safety ratings, it would have had no trouble making its way into the top five of this group. But its way is blocked by the outgoing 2008 model, which is still widely available on dealer lots with even steeper discounts. As nice as the 2009 Sonata is, it is difficult to call it worth nearly $3,000 more than the 2008 model that shares most of its strengths. While some may want the 2009's upgrades, most shoppers will likely be better-served by getting a 2008 while dealers are still trying to get rid of them. 

Driving the 2009 Sonata:

The Sonata has a soft, comfortable, and absorbent ride, with a bit more control than in the 2008 car. Some bumps register more sharply than on some competitors and on base-model Sonatas with smaller wheels, however. The car handles well enough, but it does not try to be sporty. "Safe" comes to mind far before "sharp" or "engaging." The extra 15 horsepower that joined the 3.3-liter V6 for 2009 add little appreciable difference to that smooth, powerful engine. The car is quiet, but there could be a bit less road noise. Fuel economy is tied for the group's second best, below only the 4-cylinder Acura TSX.

Inside the 2009 Sonata:

Inside, the Sonata’s front seats are high, well-shaped, supportive, and quite comfortable. Hyundai says they were made bigger for 2009, but you'd have to know to look to spot a difference. The rear is very roomy, and the seat is high and well-shaped there as well. An interior design upgrade provides a more opulent feel than the 2008 Sonata, which was well-built but more serviceable than luxurious. The gauges are clear, and the instruments are well-placed and easy to use. Drivers sit comfortably, and visibility is excellent, thanks to high seating and large windows with narrow roof pillars. The high roof, wide door openings, and large rear footwells contribute to very easy entry/exit. The trunk is roomy and well-shaped.

2009 Sonata pricing:

The 2009 Sonata is already less expensive than most of its 2008 competitors, but costs more than $2,500 more than a 2008 Sonata. At $24,294, it comes with the group's expected features as well as a hands-free cell phone link and active head restraints.

Conclusion:

The 2009 Sonata is a worthy combination of value and comfort, and its interior updates give it more of a luxury feel. But for now, either wait for near-inevitable rebates to bring down its price even lower, or get a nearly-as-good 2008 model that's already significantly less money.

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