2006 Hyundai Sonata

Bob Cosmai, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America, calls the all-new 2006 Sonata "a brand-altering product and the most important introduction in company history." Okay, maybe that's over the top--but this is an important car for a brand that's enjoyed good sales as of late, thanks to a strong value proposition, big warranty coverage, and increasing customer-satisfaction survey scores. The scrappy Korean automaker hopes this Sonata will strike the right note, putting its high-volume nameplate on the shopping list of potential buyers who've never before considered this model, or any Hyundai.

The 2006 Sonata is offered in three trim levels: GL, GLS, and topline LX. It's targeted at such segment sales champions as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima as well as the Chevy Malibu. Tough territory, so the Sonata hopes to compensate with pricing that runs about $2000 to $4000 below comparably equipped midsize competitors.

Two all-new powerplants are offered. The all-aluminum 2.4-liter Theta DOHC four-cylinder engine puts out 162 horsepower and 164 pound-feet of torque. This engine features a balance shaft for increased smoothness, Continuously Variable Value Timing, and hydraulic motor mounts. It's standard on the Sonata GL and GLS four-cylinder models.

Sonata GLS V-6 and LX versions get a 3.3-liter V-6 making 235 horses and 226 pound-feet. This Lambda DOHC V-6 also employs CVVT, plus a variable intake system. Four-cylinder GLs come with a five-speed manual transmission; a four-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission also is available. All V-6 Sonatas get a new five-speed Shiftronic automatic.

The Sonata employs a control-arm suspension in front, with coil springs, gas shocks, and an anti-roll bar. Out back, the five-link rear underpinnings feature a trailing link, two lateral links, an upper arm, and coil springs. Standard wheels are 16-inchers wearing 215/60R Michelins, with a 225/50R17 combination optional on the GLS and standard on the LX.