Editor's note: This story is part of the WardsAuto digital archive, which may include content that was first published in print, or in different web layouts.
LA JOLLA, CA – There wasn’t anything terribly wrong with the fifth-generation Hyundai Sonata, a popularly priced sedan that began chipping away at the market shares of its chief rivals.
True, the Sonata was outsold in 2009 by the Toyota Camry (and Prius), Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Chevrolet Malibu.
But here’s the rub: All those midsize vehicles posted double-digit sales declines in 2009, while the Sonata, at the end of its multi-year lifecycle, boosted its volume 2.3% to 120,028 units, according to Ward’s data.
Not surprisingly, the all-new Ford Fusion also grew its sales to 180,671 units in 2009, reinforcing the importance of fresh product.
Now it’s Hyundai’s turn for a restyled and re-engineered Sonata in a sector destined for growth.
The sedan does not disappoint and is on sale now, ideally timed to benefit from the surging popularity of the Hyundai brand and fully capable of ratcheting up that momentum. The Sonata cements Hyundai’s near-luxury ambitions.
While most auto makers are suffering losses or posting modest growth, U.S. light-vehicle sales for South Korea’s top brand are up an astounding 39.2% for the first four months of the new model year.
The new Sonata is a dramatic and progressively styled wedge of a car that works just as well for Mom and Dad’s date night as it does for a real estate agent showing houses. It measures 1 in. (2.5 cm) longer than the previous Sonata and will be classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a large car. It has more interior volume than each of its rivals.
