To stimulate sales, Hyundai is advertising the 2006 Sonata with a $2,000 factory rebate. Since Honda and Toyota do not normally offer rebates at the beginning of the model year, this makes the Sonata that much cheaper for those shopping y for lowest cost middle-size autos. This seems to signal the lack of sales of the 2006 Sonata and the failure of their oft-quoted-in-this-forum advertising campaign to stimulate Sonata sales. Let's see if this factory rebate can have the desired effect..
I agree, the Honda radio is very good, XM in particular, in my estimation. My wife's Hyundai had an adequate radio in it and it worked fine as we waited so many times to get the autot fixed!
Great point backy, I think Sonata is a good vehicle that has a great potential, but it is still so hard to change perception that Sonata is inferior to Accord and Camry esp. in quality feel and driving feel ( Camry excluded,lol).
As much as they hate to do it Koreans still have to rely on low price to sell their vehicles. I personally do not think that Accord is better $5000 then Sonata, but would I buy Sonata, probably not. People and their paradigms...
I think us mentioning Sonata vs. Accord and Camry in same breath does say how far they did advance and they are not far from convincing people that they have vehicles that are on par with class best for a lot lower price.
You have to buy what feels right to you. I was once a Honda loyalist, and in '92 went in search of my third Civic. I really liked it, but cost was a factor and I also liked the Sentra 2-door. So I asked the Honda dealer how close they could get to the $149/month lease on the Sentra. They said, "If you can get the Sentra for $149/month, you should do it." So I did. Haven't bought or leased a Honda since. I have bought or leased since then two Nissans, a Mercury (that was a Mystake), a Grand Caravan, and two Hyundais. Maybe I'll buy a Honda again, as they make some fine cars, but the value equation is the question with choices like the Accord and Sonata. Even C/D said the Sonata was the best value (oops, forgot to add that to my list of "bests" above!).
I am in the market for a new car and I have narrowed down my choices between Fusion and Sonata. After researching and comparing both I am leaning towards the Fusion..because it's so darn beautiful. I know, most will say the sonata is more powerful and comes with more standard features, but I need a car that triggers some emotional response in me and this the fusion does. Had it not been for the fusion's styling the sonata would of been my next ride. I have been following the rise of Hyundai and the Sonata for some time now and almost bought one back in 2001 but bought a 99 contour se instead. Back then I though they were on the up and up because I did my research. Now I will definitely choose them over Accord (blah bhlh blah) or Camry (snoooozzz).
The real test is in 4-5 years, and after 80000 miles, is the car still tight and solid. Honda and Toyota have passed that test. The 06 Sonata is still an unknown. Earlier Sonatas' stats are unimpressive.
So let's see - 4 or 5 years from now, lets do this again. How's 5:30?
I'd like to see another car company pass this test. It will be good for consumers.
Delurking here for a moment, I have a 2000 Hyundai Elantra with about 130k on it. It is still pretty tight and solid. My daughter has a 2002 Elantra with 85k on it and it still rides almost new. Personal experience tells me that Hyundai has passed that one too.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
My '01 Elantra just crossed the five-year mark, still looking and running great. So as far as I am concerned the test has been passed also. It's easy to say, Hyundai hasn't passed the test, when you've not owned one of their cars from the quality-focused era that began in 2000. And the Sonata is leaps beyond the Gen 2 and Gen 3 Elantras, from my short experience with the Sonata.
Good to hear this. Got a 13 year old in the driving bullpen. An 06 Sonata could be a contender for her first car in 3 years if they pass the real world tests.
I hear you on that, for the most part there is very little difference in the quality of vehicles out there (with one or two notable exceptions). In my opinion Honda is slightly overpriced, but it does have a cult like following.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
do agree that Accord stereo will not blow people away,and I will go as far to say I like wifes Monsoon in her VW better, but check the Edmunds stereo comparisons on 2005 sedans-Accord finished second in group of several Bose equipped vehicles. Yes it is "only" 120 watt, but it does its job a lot better then Hondas vehicles say 5-6 years ago, where they were nothing to get excited about.
Almost forgot, Edunds also rewieved Fusions Audiophile optional stereo, and was less then thrilled.
I drove the new Passsat with Dynaudio, and that radio was awesome-would I buy Passat-no.
I agreed with you totally. 99% of people purchased cars based on the mechanical merits, not electronics add-on like radio. There are rare cases where radio, sun roof or heated seat is the tie breaker in choosing one vehicle over another.
I only responded to another comment about Honda Accord radio as an example of Honda engineering superiority: just want to correct that myth. Honda may be good on a lot of stuffs but not radio.
I agree also with you jnt, I like Honda, but just because it is Honda does not mean that they have a great/best stereo in the world. They depend on their suppliers(is it Alpine?) as anybody else in bussines.
P.S.I demand Mark Levinson system from Lexus to be standard equipment on each '08 Accord.
I was in my local Hyundai dealership getting a light bulb for my '01 Elantra and looked at the '06 Sonata LX on the showfloor. Beige with ivory leather--very tasteful. Anyway, I am a little perturbed at C/D now because after looking at this car I think they did pull out their giant Nit Pick in their review, for example:
* They said that the finish on painted plastic parts in the interior such as the door releases was "uneven". Well, first of all the door releases in this sample were perfectly finished. Second, these door releases are the only painted plastic parts in the interior of the car!
* They said that the feet of tall testers were blocked by mechanical stuff under the front seats. First, the passenger's seat has no mechanical stuff period. Second, there are no mechanical parts sticking out to endanger feet on the driver's side--just a smooth, carpeted surface. Third, I was able to stick my size 10 feet under both seats as far as they would go, i.e. until my shins were up against the seatbacks, and they fit fine. Fourth, I didn't even need to put my feet very far under the front seats when they were adjusted for a 5'10" adult, since there is so much rear leg room. I suppose if you put a really tall person in the front and back seat and the one in back has big feet, they might have a problem with toe space, but no more so than in other sedans IMO.
* They also said the edges of the rear seat were soft. When I sat in the outer positions of the back seat, I didn't come close to touching the edges of the rear seat. And they didn't feel any softer to me than any other part of the rear seat. (FWIW, MT's review made it sound like the rear seat was like an overstuffed sofa. I think the cushion is actually quite firm, but not uncomfortably so. Other reviews have noted the seats are firm. So I don't know what MT and C/D were thinking here.)
I just parked next to a new Hyundai Sonata V6 in a grocery store parking lot. Being curious and trying to look at the Sonata as more than another throwaway, I looked my 05 Accord over as compared to the 06 Sonata. In my estimation, Honda has no competition in quality build from the Sonata.
1. Sonata sunroof installed with one side about a 1/4 inch sticking up, not a flat installation of the sunroof...Accord fits perfectly.
2. Sonata Premium wheels look very cheap and unfinished on the edges. My 16 inch Honda Accord wheels look polished and finished.
3. Sonata leather interior stitching not in a straight line in many places. My EX-L Accord has absolutely straight and finished stitching. The leather fit and finish in my EX-L is the best I have ever seen.
4. Sonata has mismatched (dyed) leather rear head restraints that do not exactly match the shade of the seat's leather. My Accord has exactly matching colors on all leather surfaces.
5. Sonata tops of doors do not seal with the bottom of the roof very well. Openings vary from front to back. My Accord has a small rubber strip that absolutely seals the top of the doors to the roof panels. There is no gap to be seen on the Honda.
6. Sonata's fit of panels varies on many panels...doors fit not equal on all four doors. Accord fit of panels are tight and uniform.
7. Sonata's gap between bottom of trunk and bumper looks . to be at least 1/2 inch. Accord trunk lid fits as well as the tail lights.
8. I parked next to what I thought was an 03 or 04 Accord by taking a quick look at the tail lights, but imagine my surprise when I saw it was just a wanna-be 06 Sonata. No wonder they have to start giving them away so soon after introduction.
One factory defect was the orange peel on one lower side of the Sonata. It must have been good enough for Hyundai's quality team.
Analysis: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Gallant, Subaru Forester, BMW 3 series, etc, etc etc do NOT have a new equal competitor. However, at the throw-away price, the Sonata looks like a bargain...if you do not look too close for Camry or Accord type of quality.
I am new to Honda having only a few "foreign" makes, mostly Opel and Nissans, over the 50 years I have been driving. I finally figured it out in my old age, if I can't find a car to beat the Toyota/Honda best-in-class mystique then I better join them...so far I have been very impressed... even with 89 octane gas driftng down to $2.16 a gallon (Ethanol mix).
Must have been a real bad day in Alabama. The LX I looked at today had none of these issues. Nor did the GLs and GLSes I have studied and driven previously.
Maybe the 1/2" gap between trunk lid and bumper is a stylistic feature, not a flaw?
Why would the tail light style that reminds you of a '03-'04 Accord cause people to shy away from the Sonata? That resemblence, if people think it's there, should actually help sell Sonatas, right? Unless people think the '03-'04 Accords are ugly...
When I saw the 06 Sonata at the dealer, the quality of the interior was OK. Not as good as the Accord or even Camry, well actually it was close to the Camry which should be good enough for some people. The dash however turned me off (just the design/look, not the quality). IMO, the Accord dash looks more upscale/smarter than the Sonata & Camry dash, maybe the Euro look has something to do with it.
It looks like people are getting good deals on the 06 Sonata, I don't think this will happen this soon with the 08 Accord.
You must really be bitter about you prior Hyundai's, the way you trash everything about them. What year and model were they.
Hyundai has improved greatly in the last 5 years. Honda & Toyota used to be junk. Hon/Toy improved greatly and so has Hyundai.
One year ago I wouldn't have thought to consider a Hyundai. I bought an '05 Sonata last April after reading reviews and researching , as well as test driving the car. Everything is flawless so far, panel alignments included.
There is maybe one other person who trashes the Hyundai at the same level you do. None of the professional reviews seem to find anywhere near all the faults you supposedly found on this one car.
Hon/Toy are obviously quality cars...so is Sonata. Test drive one and try to be objective. You may change your opinion, considerably.
Don't forget to replace your timing belt in your Acord by 60,000 miles (not 61,000 miles) or else you'll be looking at replacing the engine--this from a mechanic friend of mine a few years ago.
When I saw the 06 Sonata at the dealer, the quality of the interior was OK. Not as good as the Accord or even Camry, well actually it was close to the Camry which should be good enough for some people.
I actually think the Sonata's interior is much better than the Camry's, although I still think its not quite as nice as the Accord's. I find the Accord has a more upscale look.
oldjoe: I parked my Accord next to my friends Sonata a while ago. I didn't realize how wide the Sonata looked until I put them side by side. I like the Sonata's exterior design more, but the interior was what turned me away from the car. If it had the Accord's interior, I would have at least considered it. Although I find the Accord is more fun to drive compared to the Sonata.
Dude - the timing belt ain't gonna fail you at 60K. The owner's manual calls for replacement at that mileage only under extreme continual temperature conditions. Like always in Alaska in the winter and Vegas in the summer.
Let the guy bash whoever he wants. Hyundai is a target. But so is Honda. You bash Honda. I agree a car needs to be driven to analyze its feel. And the Sonata's lower price tag is attractive. But judging from his auto ownership experience level I can tell he savors the fit and finish his Accord delivers in so many ways. I know the feeling.
I saw an 06 Sonata at the dealer the other day and thought it looked great. But looks aren't everything (in cars at least). Trade into an Accord.
ct where i live, just passed a law that you need to have a hands free device to use your wireless phone while driving. it might help a little. they still have to remember to shift even while listening to their ipod. :confuse:
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
Dude- (gee that's an intelligent/mature way to talk to someone) I'm only stating what a mechanic who worked on Honda's told me a few years ago. Unless things have changed, I wouldn't rely on an owner's manual, if the car were out our warranty. This was real experience in CT, based on who knows how hmany cars this mechanic serviced.
In fact most cars with a timing BELT need a replacement at 60,000 miles. I went a bit over with my last car (Chrysler Conv 3.0L). At 63,000ish, dealer told me it was good for 75-80K miles.
I don't try to bash any car, just wanted to let oldjoe know that he has to be careful with that 60K mile timing belt or he could have a major problem. Honda's were notorious for blowing engines if the timing belt wasn't replaced right around 60K. If one were to try to stretch a few more miles, think about the cost of a timing belt ($500 or so) versus a new engine.
Maybe Honda has gotten better in this regard in the last couple of years.
I've owned eight Honda and Acura vehicles in the last 15 years and held out until 90,000 to change the timing belt on all of them. The same buddy of mine (who worked at a Honda dealer for years) maintained them all. He is the one who told me they'd be fine to run to 90k. He also said the belts showed little signs of wear when he changed them. The only ones he has ever seen break before 90k are teenagers souped-up Civics that you know have had a really hard life. And there were only two of those over the years.
"I actually think the Sonata's interior is much better than the Camry's, although I still think its not quite as nice as the Accord's. I find the Accord has a more upscale look."
"Although I find the Accord is more fun to drive compared to the Sonata."
You may think the Accord's interior is more upscale, but you have to remember that its your own opinion. Looks is subjective. LOL!
is getting very warm reviews from the press. Hyundia is ranking better and better every year in quality and reliability. You cannot disupte this its all over the press. I am not a Hyundia owner either. The Japanese need to take the Koreans seriously or they will fall by the way side. I too looked at a Sonata V6 loaded version. I did not see ANY of the flaws spoken of above. This car was built solid and tight. Interior was of decent quality. Price will be key. A comparably equipped Sonata will sell for Thousands less than an Accord.. questions is will people want to spend the extra $$$ for what difference??
has an article comparing the Camry/Accord/Fusion/Sonata. Accord EX V6 finished first, this was however a completly loaded version, about $3K more than other vehicles, also came with other options.. Fusion finished second.. take a peek you may be surprised.
to surprise a lot of people. Ford has taken a good platform and given it an attractive skin and spirited powerplant here.
The "Buy American" crowd (which I am not a part of, BTW) have a CamCord-fighter that they can be proud of.
Watch what happens..the Ford Fusion will sell like...like...a new mid-size from Ford. BTW, is anyone participating in this thread who's bought a Fusion already? Could use your input in here, we're drowning in mundane CamCordian sleepiness bigtime here. :sick:
You may want to review the past 10 pages of this discussion.
FWIW, I just received (finally!) the C/D review in the mail. I thought it was incredibly well done, and after reading it, I'm glad Toyota gave an XLE V6 to the magazine, despite the last place finish. Reading the text, C/D far from lambasted any of the entrants, IMO, and did a good job of highlighting strenghts and deficiencies. For its HP rating, the Camry acquited itself fairly well in most measures of acceleration- including passing, which bested the Fusions numbers (probably due to slow kickdowns through more gears) and the Sonata's 30-50. Interesting. I was surprised to see the Fusion with the best MPG of the bunch, and thought it interesting that none of the vehicles could match the performance of Toyota's 3.5L V6 as tested by C/D in the Avalon- in either acceleration and/or efficiency.
In terms of my tier ranking, I still stand by what I've said, though in fairness I have not yet driven the Fusion. I've driven all the others though, and even though it is different and sporty, I cant say the Altima is on par with the higher tier models- refinement, interior quality (especially those cloth seats!), fuel economy and ride quality all suffer, IMO. The 6 would be my preference, but its smaller, has worse reliability according to CR. Were I considering the 6, I'd probably be looking most closely at the Accord and Fusion as its direct competitors, as the ride and handling profiles are similar. However, those two are larger and more efficient, though not available with the same incentives.
Interesting to see how this marketspace dynamic will change with the intro of the 07 Camry in March/April, as well as the new Altima in late 06, and the Saturn Aura....
Finally, I am interested to see safety ratings by the IIHS for the Sonata, Fusion, and even the Altima and 6, which have never been tested with side curtains.
~alpha
As an aside, one of the things I really like about the Accord is that you can have a cloth seat model with NAV, which is not the case elsewhere in the segment.
Too bad that you REALLY think the Hyundai quality is anywhere near the Honda. This was a side by side comparison on the quality in the Sonata that I noted...not from an auto mag stringer getting paid by the company whos car he/she is evaluating. Sure the Hyundai Sonata is a good money deal, especially after the $2,000 factory rebate already being offered by Hyundai on the low-priced Sonata...Sonata sales must be in the toilet right now, let's hope they improve.
I think it is very interesting that Honda Accord lease prices are so low because of the high residual value of the Hondas...ditto Toyota autos. So for many owners that prefer leasing, the Honda/Toyota autos are a good financial deal...even with their higher initial price tag. Sure, the Toyota/Honda autos are not the best in every category...they are just super in all categories.
Why would I test drive a Sonata...I have no interest in Hyundais ... by logical choice.
I'm not understanding your logic ranking those cars as you did. Sure, the Altima and the 6 give up some refinement to the Accord and Camry, but I think they make it up by offering more power, in the case of the Altima, and better handling, in the case of the 6. When we're talking about cars in the $20K-27K range, we just can't have EVERYthing. I do agree that the Accord offers the best combination of refinement and driving dynamics, but I think the Nissan and Mazda deserve more recognition and not be considered on par with the rental car friendly Malibu.
Amen amen amen. Good point about the Accord's value at lease end. The high value keeps the payments low.
I take the car mag's "objective" feedback with a grain of salt - even on Honda products. The market dictates pricing and appeal of used cars - not some mag's opinion. The Ford and Hyundai will get hammered in the "resale" markets, but if you're gonna hold it 5 years, who cares? If you like it buy it.
These media comparisons of cars are a good starting point when buying a car, but they seem to try to create news instead of report it (imagine that). The news to report is how the Accord is smokin' and that the 07 Camry will raise the bar IMO. Altima will reenter the foray with its redesign too. May the best car....be the best car FWIW.
The Ford and Hyundai will get hammered in the "resale" markets, but if you're gonna hold it 5 years, who cares?
2001 Honda Accord EX 4-cyl Auto, 150 hp, smaller car $8,665 2001 Ford Taurus SEL w/Duratec V-6 (200 hp, marginally larger car) $4,735
By the way, both cars were listed in "good" condition, with 60,000 miles, on kelley blue book's website. Albeit, the Taurus listed for more than the Accord, they could likely be had for the same money with the Ford's rebates, when they were new. So, who cares about 4 grand? ME!
Why would I test drive a Sonata...I have no interest in Hyundais ... by logical choice.
You've just answered my question...without answering it. You hate Hyundai...that's OK. When were your previous Hyundai's made? You bought the greatest car on earth and got the best value available in the world.
If you have no interest in the new Sonata, that's OK. Just don't trash a car you never will take a close look at, you're parking visual at one car notwithstanding.
Yea but you had to live in a Taurus for 5 years. I owned one and was mostly disappoited with it. I've owned an Accord for 3+ years and am fully satisfied with it. Get it? You do get what you pay for with the Japanese cars. Good luck to Ford with the Fusion - the Five Hundred is a dud. The Focus did OK. I like Ford. Wouldn't buy another one when there's Honda out there.
the five hundred and the freestyle are duds because ford screwed up and is losing a ton of money on them. they are priced too low. that is why the current freestyle will be discontinued and only sold as a mercury at a higher price point. years ago, a taurus was a leading edge vehicle, but it stayed pretty much static, while the competition improved.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
Amen amen amen. Good point about the Accord's value at lease end. The high value keeps the payments low.
The lease on a Sonata GLS 4-cylinder is about the same or less than that of an Accord LX automatic right now, with about the same down payment. Since the Accord has such great resale value, shouldn't the lease payments on the Accord be much less than those on the Sonata?
Has anyone heard whether or not the Fusion will be getting the 3.5 liter engine? if so, that could give it enough juice to close the gap Car and Driver measured between its accel and the Accord and Sonata.
I think you missed my point; it being that the Honda has better resale after five years. It is also true (my opinion only) that the Accord is the more pleasurable car to own, making the better resale value an added bonus!
As an aside, one of the things I really like about the Accord is that you can have a cloth seat model with NAV, which is not the case elsewhere in the segment.
I just double checked myself on the Honda website and you actually can't get an Accord with cloth and NAV. It's only availably on 4-cylinder EX-L and EX V6 models.
At least they added sunroof and alloys to the LX V6 for '06. Before that you couldn't get either of those with cloth seats in the V6.
Too bad that you REALLY think the Hyundai quality is anywhere near the Honda.
To be honest I would say that they are on par with each other. I have a friend who owns his own shop and he says that there are just as many, if not more, Hondas in his shop than Hyundais.
I truely find it amazing how Honda owners seems to be in a cult like mentality about Hondas. I have a co-worker who claims that he Honda is far above everything else in quality even though its been in the shop three times at around 60-65k miles for work that wasn't routine maintence.
Sonata sales must be in the toilet right now, let's hope they improve.
Well there seems to be enough of them on the roads and it is reported that sales of the Sonata are increasing at a fast rate. Sorry not in the toilet in any way shape or form.
Why would I test drive a Sonata...I have no interest in Hyundais ... by logical choice.
Yet you have formed such a strong opinion on a car you have no interest in.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I've driven all these cars and I personally think the Subaru Legacy is better than all of these cars. Great new interior and handles beautifully with the AWD. You guys should check it out if you get some free time.
I agree, I think the Legacy is a very nice car and offers AWD plus a wagon option that none of its competitors other than the Mazda6 offers (and arguably the Malibu). For myself though, I've decided I don't need AWD (the main benefit of the Legacy) and the Legacy is outdone by others, specifically the Sonata, on passenger space (esp. rear seat), fuel economy, and price.
Comments
Let's see... in the C/D comparo, Sonata was the best of the group in:
0-60 acceleration (tied with Accord)
5-60 acceleration
top speed
torque
70-0 braking
quietness at idle (tie with Accord)
front interior room
total interior room
rear seat shoulder room
EPA highway fuel economy
standard safety equipment
warranty (longest)
price (lowest)
It seems to me the Sonata does a lot of things very well, at a price that is thousands less than the competition.
As much as they hate to do it Koreans still have to rely on low price to sell their vehicles. I personally do not think that Accord is better $5000 then Sonata, but would I buy Sonata, probably not. People and their paradigms...
I think us mentioning Sonata vs. Accord and Camry in same breath does say how far they did advance and they are not far from convincing people that they have vehicles that are on par with class best for a lot lower price.
I have been following the rise of Hyundai and the Sonata for some time now and almost bought one back in 2001 but bought a 99 contour se instead. Back then I though they were on the up and up because I did my research. Now I will definitely choose them over Accord (blah bhlh blah) or Camry (snoooozzz).
So let's see - 4 or 5 years from now, lets do this again. How's 5:30?
I'd like to see another car company pass this test. It will be good for consumers.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Wouldn't mind saving a few bucks over the Hondas.
Wonder how the Fusion will shake out......
I hear you on that, for the most part there is very little difference in the quality of vehicles out there (with one or two notable exceptions). In my opinion Honda is slightly overpriced, but it does have a cult like following.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
It's difficult to talk on the phone while driving a manual.
Yes it is "only" 120 watt, but it does its job a lot better then Hondas vehicles say 5-6 years ago, where they were nothing to get excited about.
Almost forgot, Edunds also rewieved Fusions Audiophile optional stereo, and was less then thrilled.
I drove the new Passsat with Dynaudio, and that radio was awesome-would I buy Passat-no.
I agreed with you totally. 99% of people purchased cars based on the mechanical merits, not electronics add-on like radio. There are rare cases where radio, sun roof or heated seat is the tie breaker in choosing one vehicle over another.
I only responded to another comment about Honda Accord radio as an example of Honda engineering superiority: just want to correct that myth. Honda may be good on a lot of stuffs but not radio.
jt
P.S.I demand Mark Levinson system from Lexus to be standard equipment on each '08 Accord.
* They said that the finish on painted plastic parts in the interior such as the door releases was "uneven". Well, first of all the door releases in this sample were perfectly finished. Second, these door releases are the only painted plastic parts in the interior of the car!
* They said that the feet of tall testers were blocked by mechanical stuff under the front seats. First, the passenger's seat has no mechanical stuff period. Second, there are no mechanical parts sticking out to endanger feet on the driver's side--just a smooth, carpeted surface. Third, I was able to stick my size 10 feet under both seats as far as they would go, i.e. until my shins were up against the seatbacks, and they fit fine. Fourth, I didn't even need to put my feet very far under the front seats when they were adjusted for a 5'10" adult, since there is so much rear leg room. I suppose if you put a really tall person in the front and back seat and the one in back has big feet, they might have a problem with toe space, but no more so than in other sedans IMO.
* They also said the edges of the rear seat were soft. When I sat in the outer positions of the back seat, I didn't come close to touching the edges of the rear seat. And they didn't feel any softer to me than any other part of the rear seat. (FWIW, MT's review made it sound like the rear seat was like an overstuffed sofa. I think the cushion is actually quite firm, but not uncomfortably so. Other reviews have noted the seats are firm. So I don't know what MT and C/D were thinking here.)
The Acura ELS system would make a fine addition to the '08 Accord (with MP3/DVD-A compatibility).
1. Sonata sunroof installed with one side about a 1/4 inch sticking up, not a flat installation of the sunroof...Accord fits perfectly.
2. Sonata Premium wheels look very cheap and unfinished on the edges. My 16 inch Honda Accord wheels look polished and finished.
3. Sonata leather interior stitching not in a straight line in many places. My EX-L Accord has absolutely straight and finished stitching. The leather
fit and finish in my EX-L is the best I have ever seen.
4. Sonata has mismatched (dyed) leather rear head restraints that do not exactly match the shade of the seat's leather. My Accord has exactly matching colors on all leather surfaces.
5. Sonata tops of doors do not seal with the bottom of the roof very well. Openings vary from front to back. My Accord has a small rubber strip that absolutely seals the top of the doors to the roof panels. There is no gap to be seen on the Honda.
6. Sonata's fit of panels varies on many panels...doors fit not equal on all four doors. Accord fit of panels are tight and uniform.
7. Sonata's gap between bottom of trunk and bumper looks . to be at least 1/2 inch. Accord trunk lid fits as well as the tail lights.
8. I parked next to what I thought was an 03 or 04 Accord by taking a quick look at the tail lights, but imagine my surprise when I saw it was just a wanna-be 06 Sonata. No wonder they have to start giving them away so soon after introduction.
One factory defect was the orange peel on one lower side of the Sonata. It must have been good enough for Hyundai's quality team.
Analysis: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Gallant, Subaru Forester, BMW 3 series, etc, etc etc do NOT have a new equal competitor. However, at the throw-away price, the Sonata looks like a bargain...if you do not look too close for Camry or Accord type of quality.
I am new to Honda having only a few "foreign" makes, mostly Opel and Nissans, over the 50 years I have been driving. I finally figured it out in my old age, if I can't find a car to beat the Toyota/Honda best-in-class
mystique then I better join them...so far I have been very impressed... even with 89 octane gas driftng down to $2.16 a gallon (Ethanol mix).
BACK TO LURKING...SIGH!
Maybe the 1/2" gap between trunk lid and bumper is a stylistic feature, not a flaw?
Why would the tail light style that reminds you of a '03-'04 Accord cause people to shy away from the Sonata? That resemblence, if people think it's there, should actually help sell Sonatas, right? Unless people think the '03-'04 Accords are ugly...
It looks like people are getting good deals on the 06 Sonata, I don't think this will happen this soon with the 08 Accord.
Hyundai has improved greatly in the last 5 years. Honda & Toyota used to be junk. Hon/Toy improved greatly and so has Hyundai.
One year ago I wouldn't have thought to consider a Hyundai. I bought an '05 Sonata last April after reading reviews and researching , as well as test driving the car. Everything is flawless so far, panel alignments included.
There is maybe one other person who trashes the Hyundai at the same level you do. None of the professional reviews seem to find anywhere near all the faults you supposedly found on this one car.
Hon/Toy are obviously quality cars...so is Sonata. Test drive one and try to be objective. You may change your opinion, considerably.
Don't forget to replace your timing belt in your Acord by 60,000 miles (not 61,000 miles) or else you'll be looking at replacing the engine--this from a mechanic friend of mine a few years ago.
I actually think the Sonata's interior is much better than the Camry's, although I still think its not quite as nice as the Accord's. I find the Accord has a more upscale look.
oldjoe: I parked my Accord next to my friends Sonata a while ago. I didn't realize how wide the Sonata looked until I put them side by side. I like the Sonata's exterior design more, but the interior was what turned me away from the car. If it had the Accord's interior, I would have at least considered it. Although I find the Accord is more fun to drive compared to the Sonata.
Let the guy bash whoever he wants. Hyundai is a target. But so is Honda. You bash Honda. I agree a car needs to be driven to analyze its feel. And the Sonata's lower price tag is attractive. But judging from his auto ownership experience level I can tell he savors the fit and finish his Accord delivers in so many ways. I know the feeling.
I saw an 06 Sonata at the dealer the other day and thought it looked great. But looks aren't everything (in cars at least). Trade into an Accord.
In fact most cars with a timing BELT need a replacement at 60,000 miles. I went a bit over with my last car (Chrysler Conv 3.0L). At 63,000ish, dealer told me it was good for 75-80K miles.
I don't try to bash any car, just wanted to let oldjoe know that he has to be careful with that 60K mile timing belt or he could have a major problem. Honda's were notorious for blowing engines if the timing belt wasn't replaced right around 60K. If one were to try to stretch a few more miles, think about the cost of a timing belt ($500 or so) versus a new engine.
Maybe Honda has gotten better in this regard in the last couple of years.
Just my personal experience.
"Although I find the Accord is more fun to drive compared to the Sonata."
You may think the Accord's interior is more upscale, but you have to remember that its your own opinion. Looks is subjective.
LOL!
The "Buy American" crowd (which I am not a part of, BTW) have a CamCord-fighter that they can be proud of.
Watch what happens..the Ford Fusion will sell like...like...a new mid-size from Ford. BTW, is anyone participating in this thread who's bought a Fusion already? Could use your input in here, we're drowning in mundane CamCordian sleepiness bigtime here. :sick:
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
FWIW, I just received (finally!) the C/D review in the mail. I thought it was incredibly well done, and after reading it, I'm glad Toyota gave an XLE V6 to the magazine, despite the last place finish. Reading the text, C/D far from lambasted any of the entrants, IMO, and did a good job of highlighting strenghts and deficiencies. For its HP rating, the Camry acquited itself fairly well in most measures of acceleration- including passing, which bested the Fusions numbers (probably due to slow kickdowns through more gears) and the Sonata's 30-50. Interesting. I was surprised to see the Fusion with the best MPG of the bunch, and thought it interesting that none of the vehicles could match the performance of Toyota's 3.5L V6 as tested by C/D in the Avalon- in either acceleration and/or efficiency.
In terms of my tier ranking, I still stand by what I've said, though in fairness I have not yet driven the Fusion. I've driven all the others though, and even though it is different and sporty, I cant say the Altima is on par with the higher tier models- refinement, interior quality (especially those cloth seats!), fuel economy and ride quality all suffer, IMO. The 6 would be my preference, but its smaller, has worse reliability according to CR. Were I considering the 6, I'd probably be looking most closely at the Accord and Fusion as its direct competitors, as the ride and handling profiles are similar. However, those two are larger and more efficient, though not available with the same incentives.
Interesting to see how this marketspace dynamic will change with the intro of the 07 Camry in March/April, as well as the new Altima in late 06, and the Saturn Aura....
Finally, I am interested to see safety ratings by the IIHS for the Sonata, Fusion, and even the Altima and 6, which have never been tested with side curtains.
~alpha
As an aside, one of the things I really like about the Accord is that you can have a cloth seat model with NAV, which is not the case elsewhere in the segment.
I think it is very interesting that Honda Accord lease prices are so low because of the high residual value of the Hondas...ditto Toyota autos. So for many owners that prefer leasing, the Honda/Toyota autos are a good financial deal...even with their higher initial price tag.
Sure, the Toyota/Honda autos are not the best in every category...they are just super in all categories.
Why would I test drive a Sonata...I have no interest in Hyundais ... by logical choice.
LOL!
You obviously didn't read my post. I offered it as an opinion, and not a fact.
I take the car mag's "objective" feedback with a grain of salt - even on Honda products. The market dictates pricing and appeal of used cars - not some mag's opinion. The Ford and Hyundai will get hammered in the "resale" markets, but if you're gonna hold it 5 years, who cares? If you like it buy it.
These media comparisons of cars are a good starting point when buying a car, but they seem to try to create news instead of report it (imagine that). The news to report is how the Accord is smokin' and that the 07 Camry will raise the bar IMO. Altima will reenter the foray with its redesign too. May the best car....be the best car FWIW.
2001 Honda Accord EX 4-cyl Auto, 150 hp, smaller car
$8,665
2001 Ford Taurus SEL w/Duratec V-6 (200 hp, marginally larger car)
$4,735
By the way, both cars were listed in "good" condition, with 60,000 miles, on kelley blue book's website.
Albeit, the Taurus listed for more than the Accord, they could likely be had for the same money with the Ford's rebates, when they were new. So, who cares about 4 grand? ME!
You've just answered my question...without answering it. You hate Hyundai...that's OK. When were your previous Hyundai's made? You bought the greatest car on earth and got the best value available in the world.
If you have no interest in the new Sonata, that's OK. Just don't trash a car you never will take a close look at, you're parking visual at one car notwithstanding.
I wish I had some right now.
The lease on a Sonata GLS 4-cylinder is about the same or less than that of an Accord LX automatic right now, with about the same down payment. Since the Accord has such great resale value, shouldn't the lease payments on the Accord be much less than those on the Sonata?
I just double checked myself on the Honda website and you actually can't get an Accord with cloth and NAV. It's only availably on 4-cylinder EX-L and EX V6 models.
At least they added sunroof and alloys to the LX V6 for '06. Before that you couldn't get either of those with cloth seats in the V6.
To be honest I would say that they are on par with each other. I have a friend who owns his own shop and he says that there are just as many, if not more, Hondas in his shop than Hyundais.
I truely find it amazing how Honda owners seems to be in a cult like mentality about Hondas. I have a co-worker who claims that he Honda is far above everything else in quality even though its been in the shop three times at around 60-65k miles for work that wasn't routine maintence.
Sonata sales must be in the toilet right now, let's hope they improve.
Well there seems to be enough of them on the roads and it is reported that sales of the Sonata are increasing at a fast rate. Sorry not in the toilet in any way shape or form.
Why would I test drive a Sonata...I have no interest in Hyundais ... by logical choice.
Yet you have formed such a strong opinion on a car you have no interest in.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D