Hyundai Sonata Review (1989 to 2005)

Quick Summary

Worth considering if you want something plush and don't mind if it's unexciting to drive. Provided of course, that you buy carefully and avoid the earlier models.

Overall:

Models Covered:First Generation - 1989-1992: (1.8, 2.0, 2.4 4cy 4dr [GL, GLS, CDi])Second Generation - 1994-1998: (2.0 4cy 4dr [GLX, GSi, CD] / 3.0 V6 4dr)Third Generation - 1998- to date: (2.0 4cy [GSi, CDX] /3.0 V6 4dr [V6])

PLAYING YOUR TUNE?

So you want a plush used executive car? Problem is, you don't have an executive budget. This is a situation tailor-made for your local Hyundai salesman. Doubtless, he or she will point you towards a used Sonata - and it could prove to be something of a bargain - as long as you buy carefully.This is a large saloon that makes a lot of sense. If all you want is a plush, well equipped and smartly-styled conveyance offered on the market at the kind of money BMW 7 series buyers would call VAT, then look no further.
Used Hyundai Sonata for sale

History of the Sonata

The Sonata was launched back in 1989 with a choice of three four-cylinder engines - a 1.8, a 2.0-litre and a 2.4. The first generation model was, in truth, unappealing and few were sold. Trim is cheap and build quality patchy. The second generation model, launched in 1994, was altogether different. It had a smart European look and a quality feel. There was more equipment, better build quality and a 3.0-litre Mitsubishi-derived V6 for the first time, to complement the standard 2.0-litre 'four'. The car was mildly facelifted late in 1996.An all-new Sonata was launched in 1998 with a swoopy new American-designed body. As before, there was a choice of 2.0-litre four-cylinder or V6 engines, but both were heavily reworked. The new 2.5-litre V6, in fact, was now Hyundai's own design, like the four-cylinder units.
Used Hyundai Sonata for sale

Hyundai Sonata Road Test

Don't expect the Sonata to be a ball of fire on the road because it isn't. Under the bonnet of the volume second generation models lies a sixteen-valve 2.0-litre 136hp engine with a specification that promises more than it ultimately delivers. Rest to 60, however, does take a respectable 10.2 seconds on the way to a maximum of 121mph.The handling is competent but equally unexciting, not aided by a power steering system that press-on drivers will find rather over-assisted. Still, these people are unlikely to stray into Hyundai showrooms anyway. For most Sonata buyers, it will be enough that the car happily cruises quietly at both legal (and slightly illegal) speeds and will do so all day in the fast lane if required.More important perhaps is the almost seamless shift action of the auto 'box that's fitted to all V6 variants and some 2.0-litre models. In second generation guise, Hyundai developed a system called 'Adaptive Shift Control' (ASC) said to provide smoother shifts when you're cruising and sharper gearchanges when the pace picks up. By and large, it's quite effective.
Used Hyundai Sonata for sale

Buying a Hyundai Sonata

Be picky. Try for the plusher air conditioned CD models. Avoid tatty first generation cars and others that are less than pristine and have incomplete service records as parts and servicing can be a bit pricey. Check for electrical faults and minor bodywork and trim damage.
Used Hyundai Sonata for sale

Hyundai Sonata Typical Pricing

The earliest 89G-registered first generation Sonata models now start from as little as £300 (in a private sale). Better, however, to try for one of the much-improved second-generation cars. 94L-platers start from around £1,200, with air conditioned CD models from around £1,500 and 94M-plated V6s from about £2,000. More typical 96N to 98R-platers range between £1,800 and £2,200 (£2,000 and £2,400 for V6 variants). Third generation versions (from 98R) are still quite rare and range from under £3,000 for a two-litre GSi to about £5,100 for a 51-plate CDX auto. V6s range between £3,400 and about £5,000.
Used Hyundai Sonata for sale

Hyundai Sonata Parts

(approx based on a 1994 2.0 CD) A clutch assembly will be around £135. A starter motor will be about £150. Brake pads front and rear are about £55 and £40 per pair respectively. A replacement headlamp is close to £125.
Used Hyundai Sonata for sale