Thanks for sharing your opinion. Although I hope you're wrong about the engine. I thought the outside looks pretty sporty, especially compared to older Sonatas.

Your opinion on the engine seems to be in the minority from what I've read so far. Of course, I won't have my own opinion on who is right until I get the opportunity to test drive one.

I wonder if the difference in opinion is due to some people being used to driving v6 cars verses those who are used to 4 cylinder cars.

 

QUOTE (Swingman @ Feb 21 2010, 12:07 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=299132

Thanks for sharing your opinion. Although I hope you're wrong about the engine. I thought the outside looks pretty sporty, especially compared to older Sonatas.

Your opinion on the engine seems to be in the minority from what I've read so far. Of course, I won't have my own opinion on who is right until I get the opportunity to test drive one.

I wonder if the difference in opinion is due to some people being used to driving v6 cars verses those who are used to 4 cylinder cars.

I thought in 08 they got away from the sporty look and this one I guess kinda reminds me of a lexus 250 or 350 what ever they are now. So luxury sporty is a good work for it then. LOL. I do have the v6 so maybe that is why. Even so a turbo would do it justice! I floored it and looked down and Iwas only doing 40mph. During normal driving throttle responce is good and nice low end TQ but wen I got on it I was sadly disappointed.

 

I have been driving my limited for a week and I think the 4cyl is fine. I have had no issues merging into heavy highway traffic and around the city of Philadelphia have been able to maneuvar quite easily. I don't see what there is not to like about this car. It is really a beautiful classy car that imo dominates the competition all the way around.

 

I drove one this past Monday. The outside is quite striking but what is also striking is that it is harder to get in than on my 2009 model. And the back seat is even harder to get into. The drive itself was fine. They did a lot of nice things inside which should appeal to many people. For my tastes the engine has plenty of power and the handling seemed to be improved over my 2009. But in all candor, I would prefer the older model and am thinking of getting yet another 2009 for my wife. (or a 2010 as they are the same). But I cannot get past the ease of getting into and out of the vehicle. That is a car killer for me. I also didn't like the emergency on the floor nor the trunk hinges which were a step backwards. I don't get that part. Don't get me wrong. They will probably sell a ton of these but I won't be one of the buyers. I might look at the Azera but I won't buy a new model Sonata no matter how snappy looking it is. But for most people it will be fine. And best of all it doesn't have "unintended acceleration."

 

QUOTE (rmissourimule @ Feb 25 2010, 10:28 AM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=300113

I drove one this past Monday. The outside is quite striking but what is also striking is that it is harder to get in than on my 2009 model. And the back seat is even harder to get into. The drive itself was fine. They did a lot of nice things inside which should appeal to many people. For my tastes the engine has plenty of power and the handling seemed to be improved over my 2009. But in all candor, I would prefer the older model and am thinking of getting yet another 2009 for my wife. (or a 2010 as they are the same). But I cannot get past the ease of getting into and out of the vehicle. That is a car killer for me. I also didn't like the emergency on the floor nor the trunk hinges which were a step backwards. I don't get that part. Don't get me wrong. They will probably sell a ton of these but I won't be one of the buyers. I might look at the Azera but I won't buy a new model Sonata no matter how snappy looking it is. But for most people it will be fine. And best of all it doesn't have "unintended acceleration."

Why do you consider it so tough to get into? Because it is low to the ground? I am not a small guy by any stretch, and it doesn't present me with any problems.

 

QUOTE (shabadoo25 @ Feb 25 2010, 12:51 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=300147

Why do you consider it so tough to get into? Because it is low to the ground? I am not a small guy by any stretch, and it doesn't present me with any problems.

I''m 6'6" tall. Prior to my getting the Sonatas I had a Ford Fusion and I was annoyed at the entry and exit which is one of the reasons I traded it off. I have found that I can get in and out of both the 2008 and 2009 very comfortably. My wife noted that this new model appeared to be much lower to the ground. I have not reviewed the actual specs but that was her impression. Most people would probably not notice it but it wouldn't work for me. Just my personal observation.

 

Part of it is height, but I'm sure part of it is age. I had a 2005 Acura TL that was a chore for me to get in and out of (6'2"). I haven't tried the new Sonata yet but I fear it will be the same based on the low roof line.

 

QUOTE (midas69 @ Feb 25 2010, 03:29 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=300175

Part of it is height, but I'm sure part of it is age. I had a 2005 Acura TL that was a chore for me to get in and out of (6'2"). I haven't tried the new Sonata yet but I fear it will be the same based on the low roof line.

I have a new SE and at 6'2" (225# and 71 years) I haven't had any entrance or exit problems. It's easier to get into then the '05 Subaru Outback I traded and the Subie sat rather high due to it's increased ground clearence. What's really amazing is the amount of leg room when the seat's all of the way back. Try one and you may be surprised.

Don

 

QUOTE (DonRich90 @ Feb 25 2010, 07:07 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=300237

I have a new SE and at 6'2" (225# and 71 years) I haven't had any entrance or exit problems. It's easier to get into then the '05 Subaru Outback I traded and the Subie sat rather high due to it's increased ground clearence. What's really amazing is the amount of leg room when the seat's all of the way back. Try one and you may be surprised.

Don

Believe me, the extra leg room is the most attractive feature of the car for me. My lease isn't up until July so I probably won't test drive until mid April. But trying to do as much research as possible.

 

QUOTE (v33sonata @ Feb 21 2010, 11:29 AM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=299106

the GDI 200HP engine felt more like a 140hp engine.

Thankfully official road test numbers by MotorTrend show otherwise:
0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds, 0.6 sec quicker than 175 hp 2009 4-cyl.
1/4-mile run in 16.2 seconds, 0.5 sec quicker than the 2009.

Not only that, the weight/power ratio is at 16.2 lbs/hp which is now the BEST in its class. The next runner up is Altima 2.5 which is hefty at 18.2 bls/hp, not even close!

 

I also did not feel a lack of power when I drove the car. In fact, I was rather impressed with the low end torque it had.

 

QUOTE (BiXLL @ Feb 26 2010, 08:31 AM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=300311

I also did not feel a lack of power when I drove the car. In fact, I was rather impressed with the low end torque it had.

That's what I would expect also. I am impressed with my 07 4-cyl and I've been telling everyone that is the BEST 4-cyl engine car (best combination of power & fuel economy) that I've ever driven through out my 32 years of driving experience. So, I know I will be even more impressed with the 5G 4-cyl. It sounds so good (200 hp on SE & 35 mpg/hwy) even just on the paper.

 

I'm only 5 feet 6 135pds and these cars that have slanted rooflines are not fun to get in and out of. If I was taller and I wish there I would not get the new Sonata. I have already got in and out of the VW CC and did not like it either. I dont know how you tall people get into Miatas, corvettes, s2000 without a crank in the back.

I happen to think the 2010 Sonata is a very comfortable car.

 

Again, I am 6' tall and had absolutly no problem getting in and out. The roof line is also somewhat of an optoical illusion as the doors are so high, take notice when you see one again. The doors are very high, and the windows very short. Dang, 5'6" and 135, you are a little guy aren't ya?

 

The doors maybe higher due to not only style points but also safety. With more SUVs out on the road, a higher belt line with steal frame would be safer for the occupants in the event of a collision. The 2011 Sonata is also stiffer and better torsional rigidity. This is partly due to more use of ultra high tensile strength steel.

 

I just drove one yesterday and it sold me.

I thought the engine was just fine.... especially driving it up and down the hills of pittsburgh, I was impressed. Comfortable seats is a plus for me, and these are just fine.

I really wanted an Azera and they couldn't find the colors I wanted and suggested I drive the 2011 limited. I almost didn't do it , but relented and was very happy after the test drive. I have an XGL and like this just as much....

Two hours after leaving the dealership, I called back and ordered one , so you know I I liked it..... LOL

Plus they got a 2.9 interest rate on right now up to 60 months. Another plus ...

 

Adding my 2 cents after a rather short test drive of a 2011 Limited. I like the new exterior except for the chrome front (too much chrome like the Fusion) and the lack of dual exhaust pipes. No HID, but you get DRL.

Interior is fine except the odd location for parking brake. Back to those gooseneck hinges for the trunk lid as well.

Engine was a little weak, but given it's a 4 cylinder with 198HP, it's really not bad.

I'll wait for the turbo model (same mileage, unleaded gas, 240HP - worth the wait).

 

Interesting comments!

Lack of power? Difficult to get in and out of the car? Non-sporty looks?

For a moment I thought I was not in the 2011 Sonata forum. Some of you folks got to be kidding me!

The outside is gorgeous. It looks like a sport luxury car to me… I always thought a car with a back of a BMW 5 series and the front of a Lexus would look really neat, and Hyundai just did it!

I’m 6’2" and was pretty comfortable getting in and out with plenty of leg and head room inside.

Power is more than adequate for a V4. Well, I used to drive a Prius, so it's all relative to what you're used to, but I also drove the 2010 Sonata and noticed the difference. I have a V6 at home too, an Odyssey.

Now the best part is: How in the world you can we get such a fine and elegant car like the 2011 Sonata limited with so many standard features for just 25K and rated 35 hwy MPG? That is an unbelievable value!!! Anyone in the market for a sedan, medium or large, luxury or not, should check out the 2011 Sonata for sure.

I got a 2010 instedad for financial reasons but, if I could, and if I was in the market for a new Sonata, the new one would be a no-brainer. Freaking sweet!

 

QUOTE (Indyking @ Mar 1 2010, 02:30 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=301029

Power is more than adequate for a V4.

It's a I-4, not a V4. The V configuration 4-cyl is very rare in today's automobiles if there is any.
But you've the point right saying that power is more than adequate. I drive 07 4-cyl and I think the power level is good for what it is. It means 11 4-cyl power has to be better.

 

QUOTE (chazman @ Mar 1 2010, 03:56 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=301044

It's a I-4, not a V4. The V configuration 4-cyl is very rare in today's automobiles if there is any.
But you've the point right saying that power is more than adequate. I drive 07 4-cyl and I think the power level is good for what it is. It means 11 4-cyl power has to be better.

I know it is a I4, it was a typo, but thanks for the lecture.

 

QUOTE (bakshi6 @ Mar 1 2010, 10:28 AM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=300985

Adding my 2 cents after a rather short test drive of a 2011 Limited. I like the new exterior except for the chrome front (too much chrome like the Fusion) and the lack of dual exhaust pipes. No HID, but you get DRL.

Interior is fine except the odd location for parking brake. Back to those gooseneck hinges for the trunk lid as well.

Engine was a little weak, but given it's a 4 cylinder with 198HP, it's really not bad.

I'll wait for the turbo model (same mileage, unleaded gas, 240HP - worth the wait).

Not sure if you have owned a turbo before but you will not get anywhere near the same mileage in the city. Your not going to get decent boost till around 2500-3000 rpm on up and there goes your mpg. more air equals more gas.
They are a blast though.

 

QUOTE (zipn @ Mar 2 2010, 09:32 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=301478

Not sure if you have owned a turbo before but you will not get anywhere near the same mileage in the city. Your not going to get decent boost till around 2500-3000 rpm on up and there goes your mpg. more air equals more gas.
They are a blast though.

Krafcik said the mileage would be about the same, assuming you drive both for economy.

 

QUOTE (bobad @ Mar 3 2010, 02:16 PM) index.php?act=findpost&pid=301654

Krafcik said the mileage would be about the same, assuming you drive both for economy.

I suppose it could be driven for economy but if I had a rev-happy turbo I would have a hard time keeping it out of boost, I mean why buy one if you're not going to enjoy it. I have the same problem with the V6, the spirit is willing to go the economy route but my right foot is not. :grin: