Base price: $16,000 (est); GLS V-6, $17,500 (est); LX V-6, $19,000 (est)
Vehicle type: front-engine, front-drive; 4-door 5-passenger sedan
Interior volume, F/R/cargo (cu ft) 56/44/13
Wheelbase 106.3 in
Length/width/height 185.4/71.6/55.5 in
Turning circle 34.6 ft
Curb weight 3100 lb
EPA city/hwy mpg 20–22/27–30
Fuel-tank capacity/range 17.2 gal/344–378 mi
Passive restraints driver and passenger front and side airbags
POWERTRAIN
2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-in-line, 149 hp; 2.7-liter DOHC 24-valve V-6, 181 hp; 5-sp man, 4-sp auto
SUSPENSION
F ind, unequal-length control arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar
R ind, multilink, coil springs, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
F/R vented disc/disc or drum
ABS optional
|
HYUNDAI SONATA
For 2002, the Sonata got a face lift and a minor increase in power. But a much-needed revision to the rear suspension and many small refinements, plus Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, persuaded us to give it an “all-new” rating. This year, it carries over with no changes but for some editing of the option package list. We called the Sonata “Hyundai’s best effort in the U.S. to date” and noted that this car, along with Korean partner Kia’s Optima, is closing the gap on the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. With its European look, the Sonata’s styling is a bit more adventurous than the competition’s, but unless you’re shopping this market closely, this distinction is immaterial. A somewhat power-challenged 149-hp, 2.4-liter four comes standard in the base Sonata. We’re happier with the 181-hp, 2.7-liter V-6 that comes in the GLS and LX.
|
