Hyundai’s latest Sonata has stepped on a few toes in the large car segment. Externally the new V6 is almost identical to its four cylinder sibling –dual tailpipes being the only clue to the extra power. Yes, they share the same attractive Euro style body, but have decidedly different personas. DISLIKES Small front seats Light coloured trim marks easily well shaped, fine for a long trip, and the centre armrest is a welcome bonus. But anyone riding in the middle might feel short-changed by the lack of support. ERGONOMICS Functional and uncluttered, the dash layout is a model of simplicity. Large instruments face the driver, with the high set audio controls just to the left. Three rotary switches look after all of your air conditioning functions. The boot and fuel cap releases are tucked away under the driver’s armrest. Thanks to its large windscreens, front and rear vision is very good, making manoeuvring easy.

SAFETY At this stage the Sonata hasn’t received an ANCAP safety rating. However the new bodyshell’s strength has been optimised in the virtual world using computer analysis, and confirmed in reality. Three hundred Sonatas were sacrificed in crash testing during the car’s development. The newcomer’s level of standard safety equipment reinforces its value for money. Dual front and side airbags, are complemented by front and rear curtain airbags. Active front head restraints and front seat belts with load limiters and pre-tensioners complete the package. Primary safety is aided by ABS equipped four wheel discs with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and traction control. BUILD QUALITY & FINISH As Hyundai move up a few rungs in their target market, so does their build quality. Its predecessor’s fussy looks are just a memory. Intelligent use of materials gives the car a look and feel above its price range. The neatly assembled two tone interior definitely looks the part. But with only beige and light grey to choose from, keeping it clean might be a problem. SECURITY As tested by NRMA Insurance the scores 65.5/120 for security, putting it the Mitsubishi 380 (74.5), but ahead Holden Commodore (59.5) and Ford (57.5). TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type DOHC 24v V6 Capacity in litres 3.342 Induction Multi-point EFI Fuel recommendation ULP Claimed max. power 173kW @ 6000rpm Claimed max. torque 304Nm @ 3500rpm TRANSMISSION Type Five speed automatic Driving wheels Front WHEELS Steel 16” x 6.5” Tyres 215/60R16 95V Spare Full size STEERING Type Power assisted rack & pinion Turns lock to lock 3.1 Turning circle 11.4m DIMENSIONS Mass 1580kg Length 4800mm Width (incl. mirrors 2055mm) 1832mm Height 1475mm Ground clearance (measured) 156mm Seating capacity 5 Fuel tank capacity 70litres TOWING Max. towed mass (trailer plus load) 1700kg Max. towball download (laden trailer) 170kg NRMA INSURANCE THEFT RATING Points on 0-120 scale (high score best) 65.5 WARRANTY 5yr / 130,000km MANUFACTURED IN Korea

Download Hyundai Sonata V6 Sedan Manual