2007 Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai had one goal when it launched its all-new 2006 {{{Sonata}}}: Become the leader in the midsize-sedan category. After spending a year with our LX, we can say the carmaker is well on its way.

The Sonata's interior is cavernous compared with those of its rivals; it has 105.4 cubic feet of passenger volume versus the Accord's 97.7 and the Camry's 101.8. Hyundai spreads the wealth, too, increasing passenger room front and rear. The Sonata also leads in front headroom, legroom, and hiproom and comes in a close second in shoulder room. In back, it continues the lead in shoulder and hiproom and again is a close second in head- and legroom. All this extra area is the result of an increase of two inches in length and height with an inch more wheelbase over the 2005 model.

Along with providing more cabin room, Hyundai has further stepped up interior quality. Several editors remarked on the much improved materials and fit/finish. "They're right on par with their competitors," noted one. The only negative comment was that "the faux carbon fiber on the dash seems to be trying too hard to be hip; a simple wood or faux wood trim would look better." All found the seats comfortable and supportive, and there was no talk of the seat bottom being too small, a trait common to many Korean cars. One editor did write, "The seats are supple and soft, but they give the illusion of sitting on them instead of in them."

We all agree the V-6 has enough juice, with plenty of get up and go when needed, while generating minimal noise. The transmission responds sluggishly, however, and isn't as refined as those of its competitors. Nonetheless, the ride is smooth, quiet, and comfortable, making long commutes in traffic much more bearable. This combination of smooth ride and seat comfort makes the Sonata a perfect family-weekend getaway vehicle.