Up Close: 2009 Hyundai Sonata

While Hyundai's exterior revisions to its 2009 Sonata sedan could go unnoticed by many, the interior update is a nice, easily recognizable improvement. The dash design vaguely resembles the Lexus RX's, and material quality and panel fit is good overall. The only thing that really drags the cabin down is a cheapo parking brake handle.

In terms of comfort and roominess, it didn't take long for me to find a comfortable position in the driver's seat, and with that seat adjusted for my 6-foot-1 frame I still had good space in the backseat.

A number of new family sedans have debuted recently, including perennial heavyweights like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Hyundai's updates to the Sonata should help keep it competitive with those two models, as well as the Chevrolet Malibu. Its low starting price of $18,795, including destination, should help, too.

 

Comments

[Mike B.]

HA -- this is the only place I've been able to find a shot of the (base) GLS interior. Thanks, guys!

[Mike B.]

...or the SE w/leather, rather.... But the dash is the same.