Stretched and simplified, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata has received plenty of changes over the 2010, with a 3-inch increase in wheelbase, a new engine, and freshened styling. This front-wheel-drive (FWD) four-door sedan comes in three trim levels - base GLS, sport-inspired SE, and Limited - all powered by the same brand-new 2.4-liter, inline four-cylinder (I4) engine. In addition, special attention was paid to upgrade the Sonata’s styling, both inside and out, and this was done at Hyundai’s Irvine, California, studio.

The sole engine offered is a 16-valve-per-cylinder 2.4-liter inline four that produces 198 hp amd 184 lb-ft of torque in the GLS and Limited, and strangely bumps up only 2 hp and 2 lb-ft of torque in the supposedly sporty SE. SE and Limited get a six-speed automatic transmission standard, while the GLS gets a six-speed manual with the option for the automatic. Thanks to upgrades like direct injection, continuously variable valve timing, and variable induction, the 2.4-liter engine manages 23/34 mpg with the manual transmission and a class-leading 23/35 with the automatic.

The GLS has some unexpected features for a base trim, like heated power mirrors, remote keyless entry, a satellite-ready CD and MP3 player with iPod adaptor and Bluetooth, and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. Otherwise, the cloth upholstery, air conditioning, and 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers are what you’d expect. Moving up to the SE will get you some welcome and “sporty” upgrades. Not just 2 extra hp and lb-ft of torque, the SE also gets a sport-tuned suspension and steering, dual exhaust, 18-inch alloys, foglights, keyless entry, and push-button start as well as visual upgrades like dark chrome exterior trim and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and tranny knob.

It’s the Limited that really gets the business, however: full leather upholstery with heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate controls, an upgraded HD stereo with 6-CD changer, unique interior trim, a power sunroof, 17-inch alloys, and mirror-mounted turn signals. Regardless of trim, the Sonata is equipped with standard traction control, antilock four-wheel disc brakes with brake assist, an anti-skid system, and six standard airbags.

Hyundai has made a lot of noise regarding the freshened styling of the Sonata, especially that of the interior. The 3 inches added to the wheelbase should do a lot for stability, but an immediate benefit has been seen in the interior, which many have noted is noticeably roomier. Upgrading interior materials was also a major focus for Hyundai, and reviewers have so far been impressed, commenting that the Sonata surpasses expectations within its class.

So far, the 2011 Sonata seems to be a winner, with a more-powerful and more-efficient four-cylinder engine, a seriously upgraded interior, and freshened styling. Testing is still being done, so we’ll have to wait and see what is made of the engine and transmissions, but early indications are positive. Given the Sonata’s sub-$20,000 entry price, Hyundai may have a winner for 2011.