The four-cylinder engine that comes with the base model works well when paired with the five-speed manual gearbox. It does not, however, offer strong power, especially at higher elevations. It lacks the response of the V6, particularly at lower revs. It delivers 22/30 mpg with the manual, 21/28 with the automatic. The V6 gets 20/27 mpg with the automatic.
Sonata's ride is smooth, soaking up tar strips and potholes. Some popping over seams can be heard, and at speed the Sonata has a tendency to drift within its lane. But our test car glided effortlessly at 75 mph, with only a ruffle of wind noise and the slightest amount of tire noise interfering with our utter tranquility. We enjoyed even the pianissimo passages of classical music on the Sonata's standard CD player. The nose dives a bit under hard braking and the rear suspension squats under hard acceleration, but the Sonata's four-wheel independent suspension works well in the daily grind.
Steering is responsive. It's a bit slower than the new Honda Accord's steering, so you have to turn the wheel more. Drive it very hard on a bumpy, winding road and you can feel some chassis flex. This third-generation Hyundai Sonata was launched for the 1999 model year, so its chassis isn't as rigid as what you get with the newest name-brand sedans. (Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima all benefit from completely re-engineered chassis within the past year.) Also, the tires don't feel as connected to a wet road we'd like. But the Sonata is alright.
Braking in the Sonata GLS is solid with the four-wheel discs, an upgrade over the rear drum brakes in the base model. ABS is optional and we recommend it as it allows the driver to brake and steer at the same time in an emergency stopping situation.
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