Content provided in partnership with

Automotive Industry

1999 Hyundai Sonata

Automotive Industries, June, 1999 by Gerry Kobe

Hyundai is are really starting to bother me. I can't just ignore them like I used to, and at times I confess to finding myself wanting to look at them. On occasion, I actually fancy a quick spin in one and I can stare into the mirror afterwards without shame.

Ohhhh God, I don't care what's right and what's wrong anymore. I liked the Sonata, I really did.

There I said it.

Think what you will but when I felt the smooth power of its Hyundai-developed, 2.5L Delia V-6, I whispered the word, "Honda" And when I tossed it through a series of tight turns I murmured, "BMW." OK, OK, I lied. I didn't really say BMW. I said "Pontiac." But hey, that's an improvement. I couldn't even print what I used to say when I tried to manhandle a Hyundai through a turn.

Most Popular Articles in Autos: Service Slants; 2007 utility vehicle buyer's guide: Side-By-Sides are popular; here's who ...; Transmission considerations: beyond the manual gearbox; Buell Motorcycle engineering, innovation, & dedication: in an industry ...; 100 + 10: America's oldest automotive magazine celebrates its 110th year ...; More »

What I'm trying to say here is that these cam have come further, faster than anyone ks giving them credit for. They fit well, they are tight and solid, the styling is distinct and the warranty says Hyundai is confident. With a five-year bumper to bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, these guys are almost cocky.

And in the case of the Sonata, the car really focuses on passenger safety. Second generation front airbags that won't deploy on a seat with a child in it, start dard side airbags, belt pre-tensioners with load limiters and a high strength steel cage for better crush.

Japan beware. These guys are serious. And they're good.

Automotive Industry

1999 Hyundai Sonata

Automotive Industries, June, 1999 by Gerry Kobe

Find Research Guides for:

Find Featured Titles for: News

Most Popular Articles in Autos

Most Popular Publications in Autos