2011 Hyundai Sonata Review
Currently in its sixth generation, the Hyundai’s refurbished midsize sedan, the Sonata, is one head turner. If you’re asking “why?”, then all you have to do is see one for yourself and the answer will readily be served to you.
Just look at those headlamps that are shaped like the eyes of a cat. Even without staring at them, they will tell you that the Sonata isn’t something to be underestimated.
Then at the center is the radiator grille, designed with big horizontal chromes to add to its impressive front appearance. Over the top is the tinted windshield that protects the people from the sun’s harmful rays, thanks to the shade band and the solar control.
Move your eyes toward the body and you’ll instantly notice the side mirrors. Aside from the resulting aesthetics, they also help in accident avoidance because of the LED repeaters that glow whenever the Sonata is turning.
The usual alloy wheels of a car are also showcased in this model (17 inches for the GLS model and 18 inches for the Premium model), but what set the four wheels apart from others is the design that definitely looks sophisticated. Then at the rear is the energy-saving LED tail lamp, which enhances the car’s visibility whether it be day or night.
The Sonata’s cabin possesses the same “sculpted” character as the exterior. It’s like you’re getting inside an expensive car because the first thing to spot is the black leather seats, that which can only be found in genuine high-priced vehicles. It also offers you the panoramic sunroof that can only be found in luxurious cars, too.
Other stunning interior features the Hyundai Sonata has are the fully automatic air conditioner that keeps the temperature equal in both the front and rear seats, the paddle shifters, and the center armrest that doubles as a storage area.
To let the passengers feel secured all throughout the journey, the Hyundai Sonata is also packed with a bunch of safety features such as the front, side and curtain airbags, ESP and ABS-EBD, Hill-Start Assist Control, Brake Assist System, the active headrests that move forward and upward whenever there’s collision, keeping all passengers from any neck injury, and the disc brakes on the wheels that offer a sure fast and safe braking whenever it is needed.
So, how does the Hyundai Sonata perform? Simply push that start button to get the engine going. With the 2.4-liter Theta II MPI engine, the vehicle can promise a superb power and acceleration.
Surprisingly, it doesn’t even consume much fuel.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! There may be a lot of premium sedans in the market nowadays, but with the Sonata’s “fluidic sculpture” and superb engine performance, all is worth buying.
SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicle: 2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS
Type: Premium Sedan
Engine: Theta II 2.4-liter MPI DOHC
Horsepower: 178 PS @ 6,000 rpm?
Max. Torque: 22.3 kg-m @ 4,000 rpm
?TRANSMISSION: 6-speed Gate Type H-Matic Automatic
DIMENSIONS?
Length: 4820 mm?
Width: 1835 mm?
Height: 1470 mm?
WHEELS & TIRES: 225/45 R18 aluminum alloy?
PRICE AS TESTED: P1.588 million
