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April 13, 2008
2008 Hyundai Sonata Limited Review
by
Michel Deslauriers
, Auto123.com
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Back in 1987, I knew a family that owned a Stellar. Remember that car? It's the first sedan that the Korean manufacturer sold in Canada. I was only 11 at the time, but I still remember one thing: that car had a lot of pieces missing.
 | | Under normal driving conditions, the car is smooth and quiet. |
There were missing door lock pulls, absent or broken plastic trim, and a general lack of build quality. The Pony was no better.
However, that didn't prevent Hyundai from prospering in Canada. It proves one important thing: whatever the product, if the price is low, people will buy it. And thanks to those people who bought Hyundais in the 80s that we know can buy a magnificent mid-size sedan called the Sonata. Let's take a few minutes to thank the cash-strapped people of that era, because it's them who sacrificed themselves to motivate Hyundai in becoming a better car builder.
Sober appearance
The Sonata's shape isn't really audacious, but it doesn't prevent the sedan from being attractive. It's actually a mix of styling elements that you can spot in a few rival models; Hyundai did a good job with the design, and I really like the ribbed hood which gives the car a little character.
Inside, it's the same deal: a low-excitement cockpit, but pleasing nonetheless. The two-tone dash is separated with a horizontal chrome band, and the upper portion has a low-glare finish; the dashboard top is moulded in one big piece of rubber, which reduces the risk of squeaks.
Comfort guaranteed
The instrumentation is straightforward; rheostats are used to set temperature and fan speed, the radio has easy-to-use buttons and the wheel-mounted controls are within our thumbs' reach. In fact, the only thing that bugs me is the old-school radio display, with black characters on an olive-green background.
The seat cushions are soft, so those who like this type of accommodation will be happy. After spending on the ultra-firm seats of a German sports car, I have the impression of being squashed on my living-room sofa in the Sonata. In short, I like the seats. In back, there is ample space for three across.
 | | The instrumentation is straightforward. |
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