2005 Hyundai Sonata Reviews, Pricing & Specs









































































































































































































































































































































































Overview
Making slow but steady gains in the U.S, the midsize 2005 Hyundai Sonata sedan is starting to put a dent in Toyota's and Honda's reign in...
Making slow but steady gains in the U.S, the midsize 2005 Hyundai Sonata sedan is starting to put a dent in Toyota's and Honda's reign in the domestic market. With a class-leading warranty, more affordable price tag, and a long list of standard features in the base model, the Sonata is popular with drivers seeking quality on a budget. There are few changes in 2005. The luxury LX trim gets an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and there is a new GLS Special Edition trim that offers heated front seats.
The 2005 Sonata comes in base GL, GLS, and LX trims. A 138-hp, 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder sits in the base, coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission. An optional 170-hp, 2.7-liter V6 is standard in the GLS and LX, and is coupled with a 4-speed shiftable automatic. The front-wheel-drive sedan is wider than a Camry and is noted for its spacious front and rear legroom and a 14 cubic-foot trunk. The base model GL offers full power features, cruise control, and a CD player, while the GLS upgrades interior materials and adds map lights, heated mirrors, and rear cupholders. The LX goes whole hog with leather, a power driver's seat, and garage opener. Dual front-side airbags are standard, but ABS brakes and traction control are offered only as options. Rear seats split-fold 60/40 for extra trunk space.
After a 2002 upgrade, the Sonata has improved its styling and performance, and few drivers find fault with its handling and smooth ride. Though somewhat harsher than its competitors on the highway, the 2005 Sonata stands out for its spaciousness and 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. Drivers like the long list of standard features and say the interior ergonomics are easy and convenient. Downsides include overall seat comfort (not enough padding), a labored 4-cylinder engine, rapid and undeserved depreciation, and disappointing fuel economy.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2005 Hyundai Sonata generally have positive feelings about their vehicles. They particularly like its reliability, smooth driving experience, and decent fuel economy. Many appreciate the comfortable and spacious interior, as well as the car's performance, especially with the V6 engine. On the downside, some drivers mentioned that it can feel a bit underpowered on inclines and may require occasional repairs."
This car is fun to drive. Its V6 24 valve DOHC provides quick acceleration. The car has very good handeling and can take corners pretty quick. The leather is very durable and has sustained 5 years of the brutal San Antonio summers.
July 15, 2009Easy to maintain, simple to drive, and solid V6 power with better than average fuel economy. Outstanding performance, durable build quality, classic appearance, low cost of ownership, and there is no doubt that is car is certainly fun to drive for both short and long driving trips.
November 20, 2010I’ve had this car for over a year aside from new set of tires and had spark plugs replaced along with oil changes it was 164,583 miles so far and drives wonderfully I’m not a car person but it’s awesome only things I’ve left to do is AC compressor and tune up for it it’s a 2.4 liter and gets great gas mileage and love to drive it especially out of state.
September 19, 2021What owners say
This car is fun to drive. Its V6 24 valve DOHC provides quick acceleration. The car has very good handeling and can take corners pretty quick. The leather is very durable and has sustained 5 years of the brutal San Antonio summers.
July 15, 2009Easy to maintain, simple to drive, and solid V6 power with better than average fuel economy. Outstanding performance, durable build quality, classic appearance, low cost of ownership, and there is no doubt that is car is certainly fun to drive for both short and long driving trips.
November 20, 2010I’ve had this car for over a year aside from new set of tires and had spark plugs replaced along with oil changes it was 164,583 miles so far and drives wonderfully I’m not a car person but it’s awesome only things I’ve left to do is AC compressor and tune up for it it’s a 2.4 liter and gets great gas mileage and love to drive it especially out of state.
September 19, 2021love this car! great on gas and very reliable. jus keep it regularly serviced and it runs like a top. this review is based on what ur getting. for a mid ranged sedan its got good acceleration and top end. braking is great, as well as handling. of corse handling is always improved with a better grade of tire, but it shoots in and out of corners well.
November 6, 2011Typically, this car runs very well. My sister loves it. It gets decent gas mileage, is comfortable, and it performs surprisingly well. It even has a good sound system. I would reccomend the Hyundai Sonata for anyone in need of a cheap, reliable car.
December 17, 2008All the extras for a great price compared to Hondas and Toyotas equal in every category a little more distinctive styling; trouble free operation 2 dealer warranty visits; one for a light bulb and the other for an emission parts replacement.
July 30, 2012This is my second car :) I got it from my Grandmother shortly after she passed away. It has a V6 engine and runs very smoothly. It's very reliable. It's only been in the shop once (in the three years that it's been around). That was only to flush out the entire system. Just like every car needs every now and again.
March 28, 2008Very smooth driving, gives the feeling of luxary; looks fantastic but does not out beat the newest of Hyundai Sonata line. Cost we reasonable and well worth it. I enjoyd the car personally and would reccomend it to anyone. Needed some repairs but nothing any other car wouldnt need with time.
January 8, 2010Trims & specs
Base MSRP $19,594 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.7L 170 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 14.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $17,044 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 138 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 14.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,894 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.7L 170 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 14.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |





