2007 Hyundai Sonata Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The first-generation Sonata left Hyundai’s factories with a rounded, almost bulbous styling that was as awkward as it was boring. The 2006 redesign netted a completely new car with smooth lines and a grown-up feel. In higher trims, the Sonata benefits from larger 17-inch alloy wheels that give it an almost muscular and sporty look. Around back, the simple but attractive design continues with large taillights and a tasteful absence of huge logos and text.

The same theme that defines the Sonata’s exterior continues inside. The dash and centre stack are uncluttered, and the layout of buttons and controls puts everything within reach of the driver. Passengers in the spartan back seat are treated to a flat but comfortable bench and not much else. Rear headroom is generous thanks to a gently sloping roofline, and legroom is more than acceptable for all but the tallest adults.

Hyundai's cars haven’t traditionally offered the most exciting driving experience, and while the Sonata isn’t a thrill ride, it’s got more than enough power to leave an impression. The 2.4-litre inline-four delivers 162 horsepower to a front-wheel drive (FWD) drivetrain through either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. That doesn’t sound like a lot of power, and it isn’t, but it’s enough to get the Sonata moving quickly when necessary. The manual gearbox’s shifts are crisp and solid, but the throw is a bit too long to give the car a truly sporty feel.

The larger and more powerful 3.3-litre V6 produces power specs of 234 hp and 226 pound-feet of torque through a five-speed automatic gearbox. Hyundai says the Sonata will do zero to 100 kilometres per hour in roughly 7.5 seconds with the V6 powertrain on board, which is more than quick enough for a family sedan. The five-speed automatic is responsive and works well around town, where stop-and-go traffic can sometimes cause stutters.

The Sonata handles competently but is less refined and controlled than the Honda Accord or the Toyota Camry. There’s more body roll and movement than you get in the other two cars, but steering and braking are both direct and inspire confidence. Rough pavement gives the Sonata a hard time, especially with the larger wheels and tires that come with higher trim levels. Even small bumps and knocks make their way into the cabin, which can make for a busy and annoying ride on some road surfaces.

The new Sonata looks and feels more expensive than it is, and it represents a big leap forward for the model in terms of construction and materials quality. Hyundai has been hard at work trying to shed its budget brand image, and the Sonata’s interior is a great showcase of those efforts. There are still more cheap-feeling plastics than what can be found in an Accord or a Camry, but the majority of surfaces in the Sonata’s cabin feel premium and are attractively finished.

The centre stack features a stereo system that has been integrated into the dash, which gives a cohesive and tidy look to the cabin. Outward visibility is good in nearly every direction, but wide C-pillars obstruct blind-spot views in some situations.

The Sonata landed mixed results in crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Front crashworthiness and the head restraints/seats were rated as "Good," but side crashworthiness only earned an "Acceptable" rating. Roof strength was rated as "Marginal." The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated the Sonata five stars in all categories except rollover safety, which earned four.

Front airbags, front side curtain airbags, and front-row side impact airbags are standard safety features for the 2007 Hyundai Sonata. Traction control, electronic stability control, and antilock brakes are available on higher grades.

The model year 2007 Sonata is quite well equipped in its base trim level, and its price sweetens the deal even more. The GL starts at $22,295 in Canada, and though many people will opt for the optional automatic transmission, that drives the price up by only $1,300. The new GLS and four-cylinder engine pairing starts at $26,895. The GLS with the V6 starts at $27,895.

Fuel economy won’t generate many complaints, either. Sonatas equipped with the four-cylinder engine and manual transmission consume 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving and 6.3 on the highway. Upgrade to the four-speed automatic and you’ll consume 9.9 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 on the highway. With the V6 and the five-speed automatic, your fuel consumption will be 11.5 L/100 km city, 7.2 highway.

Note: Images show a US model.