2012 Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai is an emerging leader in the car industry. This is because they produce automobiles that offer value for money. The goal of this article is to provide a review on the 2012 Hyundai Sonata. The cost of the 2012 Sonata starts at $19,600. Prices vary depending on the trim you choose, it comes in the GLS (base), SE and Limited trims.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sedan Base Price: $19,695.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters) MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 189.8 in. (482 cm) Width: 72.2 in. (183 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm) Wheel Base: 110.0 in. (279 cm)
Curb Weight: 3161 lbs (1433 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 16.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 16-valve DOHC inline-4 Displacement: 2359 cc
Horsepower: 198 HP Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds 1/4 Mile: 14.5 seconds
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Sonata SE MSRP: $23,095; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy
Option:Sonata Limited MSRP: $26,345; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy

Performance

The base engine is 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers around 198 horsepower but there is an optional 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder that can deliver a whopping 274 horsepower. The GLS comes standard with a six speed manual transmission and an optional six speed automatic. The automatic comes standard in the Limited.

Reviewers all agree that the Sonata is easy to handle, the steering wheel provides ample response, braking is good enough and most reviewers feel the standard engine is powerful enough for city driving as well as the highway. However the same reviewers rave about the fuel economy of the 2012 Sonata which is possibly the most fuel efficient gasoline engine in its class.

Exterior & Interior

The 2012 Sonata can be described as a series of fluid swoops that is more reminiscent of a coupe than a luxury sedan. Hyundai has dubbed this design as “fluidic sculpture” which have most reviewers raving. Most reviewers state that the 2012 Sonata looks more expensive than it actually because of the swooping highlights, outstanding color and beautiful finishes that accompany the sedan.

The roomiest in its class and features a modern even futuristic design. Leg room is not a problem, especially in the backseat however the Sonata comes standard in cloth seats which are a definite no no in luxury sedans but a definite possibility in affordable midsized sedan

Safety & Reliability

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has yet to evaluate the 2012 Sonata however the federal government rates the Sonata with a perfect five out of five stars. However a downside to the Sonata is the fact that the standard safety features are just that, standard. This is where it definitely lags behind against the competition. However it can also be said that this is to be expected given the difference in pricing.

The 2012 Hyundai Sonata has a standard warranty of, five year/60,000-mile and a power train warranty of 10-year/100,000-mile.

Overall

Overall the 2012 Sonata delivers a lot of value for less than $20,000 and this has a lot of reviewers raving. Not mention the roomy interior the classy exterior and standard features that come optional to its competition. The engine is either 2.0 or 2.4 cylinders but reviewers say it can compete with most v6 engines out there in the market.

Pros

  • Offers outstanding fuel economy
  • A 10 year power train warranty which is one of the longest operating warranties of its class
  • Comes standard with USB and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Proponents say its radical design is fluid and futuristic

Cons

  • The 2.4 liter engine can be insufficient or sluggish in the highway in terms of overtaking
  • Cloth seats are standard
  • Deponents say its radical design is a turnoff

The Competition

The Ford Fusion (MSRP $19,850; 22 city / 32 hwy)is probably the competitor of choice since its strength lies in the weaknesses of the Sonata. The Ford Fusion has almost the same price, offers a roomy interior but comes with a powerful v6 engine and leather seats that have most reviewers raving. Other competitors are the Mazda6 (MSRP $20,420; 21 city / 30 hwy) and the Nissan Altima (MSRP $20,410; 23 city / 32 hwy). All three competitors are available in six cylinder engines however take note that the Sonata performs like a V6 at the fraction of the mileage.

Overall Rating
82 out of 100

What others say:

“Testers are divided on Sonata’s handling prowess, particularly regarding the sport-themed SE. Most say this is a competent and confident midsize sedan in everyday driving.”Consumer Guide

“Lots of standard and optional features for the money; stylish and comfortable cabin; top fuel economy; strong safety scores; lengthy warranty.”Edmunds

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