2013 and Earlier - Hyundai Sonata Prices Paid and Buying Experience

backy

Dealers clearly DO make money on new cars, even at $2000 under invoice ala Towne Hyundai. They specifically go after Internet sales, which could be from next door or 1000 miles away. They'll get no warranty work from the far-away buyers. Yet they given them the same low Internet price as someone who lives nearby. Same for dealers like Fitzmall. They actually encourage buyers to come from miles away to buy a car, with their Internet pricing. There's no way they know that these buyers will trade a used car. So they must make money on the new car sale, even at their low prices.

m6user

Nobody, including me, said that dealers don't make money on new car sales but that as a percentage of total dealer profit. IMO most dealers make more money on the combination of backshop ops and used car salesthen new car sales. I realize that Towne and Fitzmall get a lot of out-of-towners and won't see further income from them but I'm sure most of their sales are still pretty local. They are mega volume dealers and probably are not a good example of the average Hyundai dealer. There are always exceptions and that is why I say most.

Dealers have different strategies and a lot of times it's driven by locale. In a major metro area you see a lot of competition and usually several high volume dealers that get volume kickbacks from the manufacturer. In smaller markets they don't have as much competition or customer base so they can't be high volume even if they wanted to be....so they don't try. That explains why you can buy the same car for $1000-2000 less in some markets.

m6user

I think it's funny that some people here think they make more money off of used cars, than new

Only one person said it so I guess you're referring to me. I meant most dealers make a higher percentage of their profit from a combination of backshop ops and used cars than from new cars. And please notice that I said most and not every.

I had a friend(admittedly not a car buying savvy one) that traded in a 2002 Malibu that was absolutely like new with only about 20,000 miles. They gave him $6000 for it. I checked their website and they had his car "on special" for $12995. Of course they didn't get that much but I bet they got at least $10000 or $11000 for it. I realize this doesn't happen everday but I think they would have to sell several new cars to make that much.

I'm in the Chicago area too and the reason they gave you so much for your trade is that you probably could have gotten at least another $1000 off the new price. It worked out in the end for you. Just don't make it sound like they took a such a beating on your trade in.

wfd25

Is the experience with this delaership universally positive? I've received a quote from them that beats any local (update NY) dealership by 1200 on a Sonata GLS 4cyl5speed. And the guy I've been dealing with on the phone has been pleasant and upfront as far as I can tell. It's a big haul for me to get down there, but for a grand it's worth it. Anyone who purchased there get hit with "hidden" fees and extras at the last minute?

One thing that bothered me is that their credit application page on the web site is not secure. Can't see sending personal information out on an "open" page.

Thanks.

bhmr59

Yes, Towne Hyundai is for real & the price they quote is the price you pay. If they don't offer the info about doc fees (they normally do), tax & reg, ask them. They're easy to deal with. No hidden fees. Just be sure to tell your salesman that you do not want window etching if that is the case.

I and several friends bought from Towne. Every experience was straight forward.

If you're concerned about a non-secure on-line credit application, give them the info over the phone or fax the info to them.

maxamillion1

I lived in Chicago until about a month ago...I'm seriouly considering a Sonata Limted V6, anyone have any good positive feedback from Family Hyundai? The deals seem pretty good from what I've seen. Thanks in advance

snakeweasel

Can't say much about Family Hyundai, but I bought from Pugi in Downers Grove and I an very happy with my experience.

southhavenjen

I tried to deal with them over email; they would not quote me a price on a car w/ the color, trim and options I wanted. They kept quoting me a price on a specific GLS in beige that was lacking the options I wanted when I had asked for a quote on a Limited in a specific color, then kept emailing me urging me to come in. I know they had at least two of the configurations I wanted in stock. I ceased dealing with them after that, as I felt like it would be a bait and switch situation if I actually went in there.

trevorr

Had a terrific buying experience at Towne Hyundai last week. Paid $21,212 (excluding tax and title) including destination and doc fees for 4 cyl Limited WITH navigation. Got the Cocoa Brown Metallic with Cocoa leather.......very very classy looking car. Very straightforward experience. Went to 3 Hyundai dealerships in Maryland and they all tried to tell me that there was NO WAY they could sell for that price. I told them they need to get a grip. The closest quote I got in Md. was $1800 more than Towne--and that includes Fitzmall. My internet salesperson was Sean Cullen. Good guy and wants to earn your business. Met 2 other families-one from Connecticut and one from NYC......people do travel for the best deal.

jack47

Did you have to negotiate for that price or did they put it on the table right from the get go?

biggeo

I just purchased a 2009 GLS, 4 cyl, for $17,550 out the door price. Took delivery on May 31st. Very happy with the service and professionalism from Town Hyundai denville NJ. Don't pay for the windows etching, it's optional.

George

fountainpen108

still valid even with their big discounts?

backy

It might be best to call the dealer about it for the specific kind of car you want. hyundaiusa.com is kind of confusing on the College Grad deal. It says that it's only good on 2007 and 2008 cars, and only until June 2. But it shows a picture of the 2009 Sonata on the page! :confuse:

http://www.hyundaiusa.com/financing/specialoffers/collegegraduate.aspx

It's possible the program has been updated and the web site hasn't been updated yet. You could also call Hyundai Customer Service about it, but you might get a more direct answer from the finance person at the dealership.

P.S. for those who qualify, the Military discount is still in force and offers $1000 off Sonatas and Santa Fes, and $500 off other models.

http://www.hyundaiusa.com/financing/specialoffers/military.aspx

q33

The college grad rebate is probably still valid. I actually just bought an 09 Sonata using it...but it was before June 2nd. So I dont know if the expiration data actually applies...but model and year of car should not be a problem.

Its probably best to ask them if it still applies. I had some funny things happen with the college graduate rebate. The rebate is through Hyundai Motor Finance Company, but I paid for my car in cash, but they still gave it to me. I had 2 dealers tell me that they couldn't give me the rebate because I was paying cash, 1 dealer who told me at first it was no problem but then later went back on his word, and 1 dealer who told me that it was ok and he had it approved by a Hyundai representative. I ended up buying from that dealer because all the dealers had given me the same lowest price, except one dealership gave me an extra 400 off for the college grad rebate.

m6user

P.S. for those who qualify, the Military discount is still in force and offers $1000 off Sonatas and Santa Fes, and $500 off other models.

Thanks for posting this Backy. It's been $500 for military for so long I would not have checked it.

jeff26c

Recieved offer on 2009 v-6 gls sonata with sunroof and popular package MSRP 23795 in Buffalo NY area for 18995 before taxes and title. With taxes at 8% and licensing,title fee the price would be 20755 out the door. Is this a good or reasonable offer?

marcogallo1986

Hey that is Not a bad price. what Dealer Upstate are you byeing from. Did you get a few quotes from a few other dealers to. What color are you looking to get Keep us updated it is a grate car you will love it Thanks for reading.

jfritsch

A 07 Sonata Gls msrp 20000 wholesales used for about 11500 if that. Even if Towne or any other dealer discounts a 08 by 5400 it isn't a great deal. 3000 off an 09 isn't a super great deal. It will probably wholesale for 14000 or less in 12 months, and many aren't discounting the 3000. The current run on 30 mpg vehicles and some favorable press have allowed many dealers to milk the Elantra and Sonata for more money, Towne not withstanding.

Its not the discounting that drives low resale values, its lack of demand. Perhaps a lot of volume is directed towards dealers with heavy populations of payment buyers. (who can be taken for more dough) This would keep prices for new ones high.

I don't know what the deal is with Towne offering an instant 4000-5000 off either. Its either an experiment, marketing plan or the dealership actually does killer volume. Wondering how one can sell under "cost" is not useful as "invoice" figures have been nominal numbers for over two decades.

Whether other dealers are complaining about Towne would depend on how it affects their sales. If their customers don't do much research or are heavy payment buyers and sales are up due to gas $$$ and favorable press they may not care.

Good cars, but without steep discounts or very favorable financing an Accord or Camry may be better. A Malibu possibly when production catches up. A 21000 08 mazda6 sells for the low 16000's or better and is a good car. Worth almost 14000 after 12 months too.

Good Luck
--jjf

backy

Rather than looking at "what is the wholesale price of a Sonata in 12 months?", which isn't pertinent to most people buying a car today, how about "what is the price of comparable alternatives?" In this case, it would be something like an Accord EX V6 or Camry LE V6 with VSC and moonroof. I doubt you can buy either of those cars today for close to $18,995 + T&L. The Accord's invoice is $24,153, and the Camry equipped like the Sonata invoices at $23,755. So you'll save thousands on the Sonata, which you can invest or pay off interest-bearing debt, and in a few years when you sell the Sonata that will more than make up for the depreciation difference.

moocow1

Don't forget your numbers all only apply to people reselling after 1-2 years. Most people will keep their cars 5+ years. Therefore resale differences become small when you're comparing a 7k used car vs a 9k used car and even smaller if you scale it out to 10 years, which is my plan. Resale only really matters to people who switch cars more than once per 5 years for mainstream vehicles. Obviously the more high end, the greater resale impacts. And also it's very true that money you save can be invested as stated by backy and you can make more than any resale differences even..which would make you even richer.

m6user

Totally agree. Five years ago or so I would have somewhat agreed. Back then I would have said that even if you come out even or a little ahead financially with the Sonata, you still have to "put up with" driving a Sonata instead of the Accord or Camry during that time.

However, now that Hyundai is very nearly the equal in quality and better in some areas IMO to these leading brands, I believe that in a 5 yr ownership you can come out ahead in the Sonata financially without sacrificing for a second rate ride so to speak.

fountainpen108

I am about to purchase a new 09 Sonata GLS from Fitzmall.They said they will collect the taxes due and issue me temp tag for Louisville,KY.
What is the logistics of getting Louisville,KY license plate(1 or 2? per car?) after paying the taxes up front in Gaithensburg,Maryland???

watercop1

When i bought in N. Carolina while a Virginia resident - the dealership included the Virginia taxes in the deal and issued a check made out to VA DMV so that I could get my VA plates. They put temp. NC tag on the car. It was very easy - just a simple trip to DMV.

wfd25

Thanks for the response. In my case, I drive cars until they won't drive anymore (I'm still running my '93 Sentra). The financing is what it is. I plan to pay it off early so again, in my case, it won't be a factor. My concern wasn't with the deal itself -- it's good enough and I'm comfortable with the numbers -- it was more a matter of the dealership. But I'm supposed to pick up the car today. I'll post back with feedback on the experience...

dimka8

bought my 2009 Sonata GLS I4 2.4 automate from TOWNe today.
OTD Price :17575 , paid 13475 in cache, traded in my 2002 Nissan Sentra for 4100.
Overall pleasant experience, no hassle, nice salesman. recommended.

m5280

paid 16,200 + tax/title at dealer in denver area - very happy with car - hopes this helps someone.

fountainpen108

Thanks for posting.that is a good price.I got almost the same from Fitzmall.(booked not yet bought)
Towne Hyundai told me the car came with etching for $185.Towne is more expensive this time around and tries to sell unnecessary etching(cost 15 bucks).

Now if only you can get this price in Kentucky?I dont have to go to Fitzmall.

sologenesis

I'm trying to buy a new 2009 Sonata Limited fully loaded (v6, nav), do you think 23,700 including all taxes, freight and dealer fees is a decent price? Anyone bought one for any lower?

Thanks for any help.

In the Northern VA area if that helps.

backy

As a data point, Fitzmall has this trim advertised on their web site for an Internet price of $23,215 including destination charge but before taxes, fees, and license. What is the tax rate in your area? Depending on that, $23,700 OTD could be a really good price. You might be able to find a lower price than Fitzmall's, but they typically have some of the better pricing around. Also, if you already own a Hyundai there's a $500 loyalty rebate (not included in the Fitzmall price).

barkley1

Where is the location of the dealer you bought your car from? Going to be on vacation in Colorado. May look into this.

sologenesis

The tax rate in my area is 3.2%. Which dealerships do you know of that have that $500 loyalty rebate?

backy

Any Hyundai dealership in a state where the rebate is in effect. I checked at hyundaiusa.com and VA is one of those states. You have to already own (or lease?, not sure about that) a Hyundai to get it.

m5280

Arapahoe Hyundia in the Denver area - Tony is the internet salesman

barkley1

Did you have to pay prep fees too? Anyone know if there are any extra taxes or anything for buying a car in another state? I'm assuming I would pay the local tax and then register the car in my home state?

m5280

No prep fees, just tax and title. Dealer has a $399 fee but that was included in the $16,200 price.

m6user

I'm assuming I would pay the local tax and then register the car in my home state?

Don't assume anything. States are different. For example, if you buy a car in Wisconsin but live in Illinois you pay no tax at purchase but pay your applicable Illinois sales tax when you apply for IL title and tags. Some states collect your states sales tax and forward a check to your state. There are many different iterations. Suffice to say that your state will get their sales tax dollars one way or another. I've never heard a case where you pay the state's sales tax where you buy it though. It's not like buying a microwave.

barkley1

That sounds like a pretty good deal. Same car here in Iowa for 17,300. thanks for sharing.

nearphila

I'm new to the forum and live in NW Phila. suburbs and expect to buy a Sonata before June 30. Any suggestions for local dealers? Closest ones are Sussman and Conicelli.

Also, in looking over Towne in NJ, they had an internet deal yesterday as follows:

"$1,900 BELOW INVOICE
$1,500 CONSUMER REBATE
$500 LOYALTY REBATE
"DESTINATION INCLUDED"
GOOD FROM 06/12/08-06/16/08

Just trying to understand the Towne lingo - would the price have been invoice minus $1900, and then in addition I also would have gotten the $1500 rebate (in effect, invoice minus $3400, plus TTL)?

jfritsch

Yes that would be about 4500 off msrp or more. For the 20700 gls 09 automatic with the preferred package that would put you in the low 16000's, which is where you want to be to buy new. At that price the Sonata's depreciation is in line with other cars. Do a search on towne as they seem to be the only dealership regularly selling them at this price. Most will be in the low 18000's for the 20700 model.

Good luck
--jjf

I'm new to the forum and live in NW Phila. suburbs and expect to buy a Sonata before June 30. Any suggestions for local dealers? Closest ones are Sussman and Conicelli.

Also, in looking over Towne in NJ, they had an internet deal yesterday as follows:

"$1,900 BELOW INVOICE
$1,500 CONSUMER REBATE
$500 LOYALTY REBATE
"DESTINATION INCLUDED"
GOOD FROM 06/12/08-06/16/08

Just trying to understand the Towne lingo - would the price have been invoice minus $1900, and then in addition I also would have gotten the $1500 rebate (in effect, invoice minus $3400, plus TTL)?

leonidas1

Hi nearphila. You may want to check out Stateline Hyundai. They are located in Phillipsburg NJ which is next to Easton PA. That should be closer to you. They are also offering $1900 below invoice plus $1500 rebate and a $100 gas card. I had a great buying experience with my 09 Sonata GLS. Great people to deal with. Very friendly. The price I was quoted was the price I received. No surprises.

nearphila

Thanks jfritsch and leonidas1 for the helpful info. And Stateline would be closer than Towne, so I'll check that out if my local dealers won't do a good deal (I definitely would travel for a good deal).

nhphd

I bought a 2009 Sonata Limited with NAV and moonroof Deflector, mat and tank full of gas for 21500 OTD. The dealer is in NH. If anyone is interested, let me and I can help him/her to get a good deal . I will get a referral fee.contact me at hajimow@yahoo.com if you are serious.

2002slt

"I bought a 2009 Sonata Limited with NAV and moonroof Deflector, mat and tank full of gas for 21500 OTD."

That's an average price for an I4, but a pretty good price on a V6. Which is it?

nhphd

That is an I4. I guess V6 with the same options should be $1000 higher. I know that my price (21500) was OK but I did not travel to other states and believe me I could not get that price from any other dealer in the same state or the neighborhood states.

nearphila

leonidas1:

With Stateline, what did you pay in the way of title, licence, fees, prep, etc.? I read your early May post and understand the $15,900 price (09 GLS, 4-cyl manual, no package) and am just wondering what you paid in the way of fees, etc. above and beyond the $15,900 (or, what was the out the door total price?). Thanks.

nearphila

George - is your 09 GLS 4-cyl auto or man, and did you have any popular equipment package or no? Trying to understand your price from Towne. Thanks.

leonidas1

nearphila:
My Sonata is an automatic transmission with no package. Here is the breakdown of what I paid at Stateline:
$15900 price
$1218 NJ tax 7%
$234 NJ 4 year registration
$199 doc fee
$17551 out the door price
Hope this helps.

nearphila

leonidas1 - Perfect!

I am amazed how simple and straight (and good!) a deal Statewide did for you - hard to quarrel with a $199 doc fee in the context of the deal you got.

Thanks - you've saved me much time and armed me with great knowledge.

asie

My friend just got the Sonata.
2009, 2.4liters, auto, popular pkg, pearl white(+$200), Tax rate is 6.25%

For OTD $18500

she got the car at Freeman hyundai at Dallas, TX.
Very nice guys(i recommend, Ed Smith he was really nice an old man)

ODO meter shows just 3 miles.
(2.5 for test drive at Factory, 0.5miles for fill up the gas LoL)

maybe we can get bottom like.. to 18000, but stopped at 18500 with No hustle.
We just tired to hustle with dealer(honda, toyota guys. hu~ they were tough and rude).

Is it good price??? LOL (i know it is stupid question haha)

nissan

Paid 20,812 plus Tax, license. Very early, but the car seems fantastic so far. Very quiet, handles well. Lots of power. I think I got a great deal. (V-6).