2000 Hyundai Sonata

By Bob Storck

The latest Sonata has undergone a stunning styling transformation. Beneath the sleek new skin is improved performance and better road handling as well as surprising touches of luxury. It shows that the Koreans are becoming tuned to American tastes and only need a better dealer body to gain in the sales charts.

Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) improvements abound, including flush-fitting doors and restyled side mirrors that help cut wind noise and thicker isolation pads to seal out road and tire noise.

Two engines are available in the Sonata, a 2.0-liter, 137 horsepower four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter SOHC V-6. The computer-controlled 4-speed automatic, standard on the V-6, has adaptive logic which "tunes in" to the driver's habits.

A responsive independent suspension means the driver is afforded better control. A wide wheelbase is one of the primary reasons for this improved control and serves to enhance handling and ride comfort.

Hyundai Motor America conducted a blind test drive to compare Sonata to the Toyota Camry. Both cars were completely concealed in "brown bag" wrapping and nearly three-quarters chose the Sonata. The gap is closing.