A midsize four-door sedan from Korean automaker Hyundai, the Sonata was introduced in the U.S. in 1988. Its initial exterior design was created by famed Italian automotive designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, in an effort to get it off on the right track, although it launched in a market segment that was becoming increasingly crowded and competitive. To elbow its way into that market, Hyundai has offered the Sonata well-equipped for most trim packages and priced the vehicle competitively (which it continues to do today).
But the Sonata has more going for it than just value. Its safety features have been increasingly generous, it has performed well in crash tests, and in 2007 the Sonata ranked among the top three vehicles in its segment for initial build quality, according to J.D. Power. It's also considered a roomy car, with generous trunk space. And to ward off any complaints about quality issues, especially in the Sonata's early years, Hyundai offered a generous warranty on the vehicle.
A second-generation Sonata debuted in 1995 with a more upscale look and a four-cylinder engine that produced 137 horsepower. A 170-horsepower six-cylinder was introduced with the Sonata's third generation in 1998, and the warranty period was extended to 10 years, boosting sales.
In 2006, the Sonata's fourth generation debuted with a sleek new design, six standard airbags, three trim levels, and a choice of a 165-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a 235-horsepower V6. In 2007, a high-end Limited trim package debuted with leather seats and a full range of standard features. And in 2008, all three trim packages were available with a choice of the four-cylinder or the six-cylinder engine.
Though the early Sonatas were underpowered and marked by quality problems, Hyundai has continued to improve the vehicle, and buyers have responded, drawn not only by its value, but also by its improved design, upgraded interiors, and safety features.
