8 February 2011
When Hyundai last updated the Sonata back in mid 2005, it was somewhat of a revelation for the brand. It wasn't just a quantum leap in styling, build quality and drivability, over previous Korean products, but also the catalyst that made Kiwis take Hyundai more seriously.
In fact the overall package was so good, the 3.3 V6 Sonata won it's category in the 2006 AA Motoring Excellence awards.
Now three years on from the initial launch it's time for a facelift.
It has not been a radical rejuvenation. Even with a keen eye it's tricky to spot the external changes made to the new Sonata.
While it was never the prettiest car in the fleet, it didn't offend either, reason enough for Hyundai not to push their luck on the facelift's styling.
Under the microscope you'll find that external changes to the new model include new head and tail lights, grill, front bumper and slimmer waistline mouldings.
Inside though, it's a whole different story.
The previous Sonata was marred by drab plastics and layout. But all that's been tossed, in favour of a more elegant centre stack with improved materials, similar to those used in the latest generation Hyundai's, such as the excellent i-30.
It's a welcome improvement, but there's still a lack of drama, and the cabin feels utilitarian when compared with Mazda's snazzy new 6 or Ford's Mondeo.
Specification wise Hyundai always offers a lot for your money. The Sonata is no different with standard convenience items including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, USB and 3.5mm auxiliary input that allows you to charge your iPod as well as thumb through its files via steering wheel-mounted controls, auto headlights and - useful with current fuel prices - a trip computer.
As with every new Hyundai, Electronic Stability is also mandatory equipment and the Sonata offers front, side and curtain airbags across the range. However upper tether child seat anchors are only available on the (European specification) diesel models.
Top spec Elite models also benefit from rear parking aids, electric-chromatic rear view mirror, 6 disc in-dash CD player with and 8" subwoofer, climate control, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seating, chrome exhaust tips and body coloured door handles.
The suspension dampers and roll bars have been re-tuned along with the steering ratio, though in reality - on our roads - the Hyundai's handling feels much the same as its predecessor. But this is not necessarily a bad thing.
Dynamics are fine for the majority of buyers, but those wanting sporty handling might be best looking elsewhere.
Slight engine tweaks mean the 2.4 petrol engine is outputting 6.8% more power (126kW @ 6000 rpm), 2.6% more torque (224Nm @ 4000 rpm) and a good level of refinement, thanks to increased muffler bellowing and new engine mount reinforcements.
There's a new five-speed transmission on the petrol variants too, which does its part in reducing engine resonance at motorway speeds. In fact it's probably the most significant mechanical upgrade.
On the driveability front though, it's the diesel (CRDi) versions that impress most with power boosted to 110kW @ 3800 rpm and torque to 305NM @ 1800 rpm. The diesel automatics still make do with just four-speeds but a new six-speed manual maximises economy and C02 outputs for the range.
Annoyingly thanks to the recent hike in diesel price, (which has been more rapid than petrol) as well as a rise in the Road User Charges, the nominal running cost savings over a 2.4 litre petrol means the time required to recuperate the diesel's $5500 premium in purchase price, grossly negates its financial viability.
You can thank the government for that one.
There's no denying that mid-life upgrades have breathed new life into the model. But in an aggressively contested market segment, against newer, well-priced rivals the Sonata's value for money tactics may now feel the squeeze. It faces much tougher competition than its predecessor did.