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So, it seems the 4 cyl is a spin-on. I like that better. Take one negative from the sonata negative column now. Good day.
If you go into a car wanting it to be loud, whether or not it is loud, it is going to be loud to you.
Why does everyone care that it doesn't have a fullsize spare? It's not like we're limping around on spares all the time, AND it has roadside assistance.
Because you are supposed to drive less than 50 miles on a donut tire at low speeds. The donut tire is only designed to get you to a repair shop. That's fine for local driving. But lets say you're driving on a long trip on a Sunday and a tire goes flat. With a donut spare, you have to find a repair shop and get the tire repaired, which will cost you some time. With a full sized spare, you can change the flat and be on your way and then get the tire repaired at your convenience. So if you don't travel very much, a donut spare will be fine. But would you feel safe doing 70+mph on a donut spare? I wouldn't! :shades: Manufacturers use them because of low cost and finding space to store them in the vehicle, but they are not meant for long term use.
I am considering purchasing either a 2006 Sonata LX or V6 GLS here in the Greater Chicagoland area. Using DriveChicago.com as one research/price quote source, it would appear that local dealers are listing factory MSRP WITH and ADDITIONAL $2000.00 Mark-up.
What gives? Can these prices be a function of the 2006 Sonata just finding their way onto dealer lots? Is there some other reason I may be seeing the mark-ups, or might I be reading the wrong information?
Would any of you regulars expect the prices to drop once fall begins? I was thinking that this November might be a better time to purchase a new 2006 Sonata.
Do buyers normally set their "buy" price based on dealers invoice, or MSRP?
I'm not sure what to expect that a new 2006 Sonata will cost. When I do begin my negotiations regarding this car, I would like to be able to make a "reasonable" offer/counter-offer to the dealer that I'm visiting.
Any information or suggestions on how much to pay, and what to offer as a "buy" price would be most appreciated! :confuse:
As to the accuracy of "invoice" price, are the numbers posted here at edmunds.com and other similar sources "right on the money" or pretty close to what a dealer actually paid for the vehicle in question, or are "invoice" prices just a guess?
My brother and I had suggested that we take a 15% to 20% discount from MSRP as our initial "buy" price. But rather than using the MSRP listed on the particular car, I would use the TRUE MSRP as stated by Hyundai themselves.
Would that also be a "reasonable" offer to a dealer?
Again, thanks for your help!
Invoices on Edmunds are fairly accurate, but they do not show the advertising fee which regardless of what some may say, is an actual cost printed on the invoice.
Some dealers have an advertising fee to deal with, some don't. Some dealers will give up part of the holdback which can be 4-7%.
Some dealers, known as crooks/thieves in parts of the country, are adding a premium above sticker. These are not people who will deal honestly - do business with them at your own peril.
If you want a deal, your best bet is to wait. Ford and Chevy are both coming out with new sedans in the price range of the Sonata. Also, most Honda and Toyota dealers are wheelin and dealin on their '05s to clear them out.
When I had my car at the dealership getting serviced I went over and started looking at the new 06 model they had in the showroom. The body panels all lined up perfectly and the doors were as solid as a bank vault. When inside the car with the doors closed you could hardly hear a thing inside the car. Its very well insulated from outside sound. Like the inside all the interior panels line up nicely and the cabin is very simple and uncluttered. Also had a lot of room in it and the seats were very comfortable.
Going back outside and looking the car over again I started to see several cars in the design. From a certain angle it looks like an Audi. From another angle it looks like a Honda Accord. From yet another angle it looks a lot like a Volvo. Nothing new here. My Sonata will look like a Mercedes from some angles and a Jaguar from another.
Now its time for the test drive. Luckily I was able to test drive 2 models because the one I really wanted to drive was out on a test drive. The first one was a GLS with the 4 cylinder engine. Power wise it was not that bad but you could tell it was a 4 banger. You really had to hit the upper RPM's for it to move quickly. Road noise was very quiet. The Chassis felt very solid and it soaked up bumps like it was nothing. Handling was so so but this one had 16" alloy wheels. It handled very stable but not exactly fast.
As we pulled in I could see the one I really wanted to drive. It was an GLS with the V6 engine and the Premium Sports Package. Looking it over I was impressed. Its one of the few Asian cars that comes from the factory with very robust looking wheels and tires. The LX package truly looks like an European sports sedan in my opinion.
Without wasting any more time it was on for the test drive. This time the salesman let me take it out by myself. This meant I could have a little bit more fun.
Since traffic was a bit heavy I had to give it a lot of gas pulling out of the dealership. By accident I literally started spinning the tires even with the TC on. I was like holly smokes this car has got some serious power.
On the road the GLS-Sport had a bit more road noise and the ride was not as soft but it was barely noticeable. You would only notice the difference if you drove them back to back like I did. I thought the base four cylinder was quiet but its nothing like the V6. You can barely hear it at idle and normal cruise and it makes a very pleasant and throaty sound when pushed.
Speaking of being pushed I opened the car up a little. I managed to smoke a Mini-Cooper S rather aggressively off the line. However he did not raise challenge until I was a few car lengths ahead of him at a traffic light. So it was not exactly fair. However this car is very quick. In fact its so quick its a real handful keeping the front end straight. Hyundai could have done a better job keeping torque steer in control. This was my only real complaint with the power and car.
The GLS 4 cylinder I had first driven before handled well and flat but not necessarily aggressive. However on the same turns with the GLS-Sport I was able to go twice the speed and the car took it in stride with very little body lean. No tire squeal was heard. So I tried a few more turns at even higher speeds. The G force was rather high and only felt a bit of axle hop at really high speeds. The sucker just refused to give up in the turns. A handling treight once only found in European sports sedans.
About the only handling quirk I felt was some moderate understeer. However its front wheel drive and that can't really be fixed easily. This is likely to prevent a normal person from ever driving the car hard. However it sure can dance if you wanted.
Overall I was very impressed with the car. It has a lot of features and its solidly built. Nothing screams cheap in the design and everything is well laid out. As for performance it can play with the big boys. Perhaps not beat them but they would not be able to run away.
At that moment I was interested in trading in. My 04 is paid for and I figured if I really wanted this car now is as good a time as any. However they were really not interested in talking about it. The dealership said that the 04 and 05 is a very solid car and still in demand. The big problem is they still have many 05's they are trying to move. With the current rebates and discounts they could not give me a fair price for my 04. They also said that the 06 does not have any incentives so it would be difficult to cut a deal I would be happy with. They are probably correct in that regard. They suggested I try in 6 months when all the 05's are gone and they got some incentives going on the 06. I appreciate the honesty but this was the first time a dealership did not try to sell a car. Of coarse they know me pretty well so again they were probably being honest.
Again I loved the car but I think I am going to wait it out until they get some good incentives going. Also would like a little time for them to get the bugs out of the new plant. I am probably not going to wait forever but an in dash navigation system would be a bonus as well.
There is also a $500 rebate for military. Our local Hyundai dealership is running an "employee price" promotion until July 15th too.
Sorry for all the fuss over a oil filter but for someone who changes his 2-3K during the first 100K or so, it means a lot to me to baby the car. having put about 900K on all our family cars in the last 20 years or so, I haven't had any engine/oil issues (with the exception of the lifters/valves in that grand am junk).
I'm working on getting prices and more details ... so I can pass them along. I guess this will force me to wait on getting my sonata... but maybe this is a good thing.. rebates may be out by that time?
I payed 19500 for the car out of the door (all included). No extras.
DO you think it is a reasonable deal ?
Well , to make a long story short, the dealer wanted 22 K two days ago, suddenly called me at my price, appointment to 9:30 PM signing papers for hours and finally gave me the car. When at home reviewing the car I discovered well wrapped and disguised the window sticker of the car - turned out to be the GL version even thought I signed all the papers as GLS V6.
Just a reminder to everyone - keep your eyes more than open , skeptic.
By the way the dealer is RICK CASE at Ft Lauderdale Fl. be aware.
The cars are so similar ...
Well it's official got the second tank of gas (first one I filled) MPG results....
The Sonata calculated on the trip computer 20.5 MPG.
I went 323.6 miles before I filled up with 15.758 Gallons
So my actual MPG was 20.5356.
That trip computer was spot on accurate!
I suspect the reason for the lower MPG reading was being stuck in LA traffic on day and lots of around town driving on that tank. Hopefully as time goes on I'll get more in the mid-twentys range on average.
I'll keep you updated.
I am a HUGE fan of Mobil 1 synthetic and want to switch to synthetic as soon as possible without sacrificing normal break in. Anyone have any thoughts of the best time to switch? I checked with Mobil 1 about a possible cartridge filter element for the V6 they responded that they typically only make the spin on filters... looks like Hyundai is the only place to get the cartridge filter element so far.
My thinking is around 1500 miles I should switch, this will be past the initial 1200 mile break in period and should allow for significant ring seating etc. Anyone have any different suggestions that knows about engines?
As for the oil 5w-20 is recommended, however both 5w-30 and 10w-30 are also suggested. Now Mobil 1 does make all these weights but I personally have never noticed the 5w-20 weight in stores. Does anyone know where to find the "recommended" 5w-20 Mobil 1?
If that weight turns out too hard to find... which would be better for non-freezing driving... the 5w-30 or 10w-30 in the V6?
Also what are your thoughts about "Superplug" I emailed to see if they had a 2006 Sonata V6 plug yet still no response. I just want to make sure the magnet won't mess with any of the Sonata's systems. I seem to remember reading something about magnetic fields under the car in the owners manual I think it has something to do with one of the systems (ESC ?). Anyone know?
Thanks.
His recommendation is using 10w-30 in California, he says that is what he uses when he does the oil changes. Doesn't get cold enough to need 5w. Plus less viscosity improvers needed in the oil itself than 5w-30.
He also said you can switch to synthetic at anytime and that it is no problem going 7500 between changes in the V6.
As for the Superplug he said it was up to me. He just seemed to think it was a really good idea on older cars and that the new ones don't really need it but it couldn't hurt anything.
So I think I'll probably do the first change somewhere between 1200-1500 miles. I'm going to try to do it on my own (like the extended old oil drain time). I'll let you know how easy or hard it was.
He is checking into turning on the speed-sensitive door locks (disabled by default) and will call me back. I'll keep you updated.
Did you confirm what model car you got. As one of the other post said if the paper work that you signed said Sonata 2006 GLS you may have gotten the wrong car. However, you should be able to take the car back and get a GLS V6 model at the price that the paper work shows or get your money back.
Before getting your money back I would consult with an attorney. Because, if you really want the car and they (the dealer) wrote 2006 GLS V6 on the paperwork and you signed it that is a contractual agreement. If they fail to honor this agreement they have voided the contract and should make it correct or stand to be disciplined. This can be costly for the dealer and the person in litigation. So if you decided to take legal action I would find a young attorney (Local College Law School) that wants to work pro bono as additional practice.
You can also inform the BBB and other government agencies. This is a big no no to lie to consumers in addition to having it in writing.
Just about all new car engines are built to such tight tolerances these days that they all recommend 5000 or 7500 mile intervals. I have a diesel truck that recommends 25,000 mile interval!
Save the planet - stop wasting oil.
Boltman - I assume you can constantly monitor the MPG. What does it read when you are cruising at highway speed ? I think the change to Mobil 1 is a great idea. Has worked great with my last two cars - both over 150K and never a problem relating to engine wear. I think I would change somewhere around 1K-2K.
I totally agree, the only reason I'm advocating swithching to synthetic very early in the engines life is to get the most benefit from the extra lubrication/safety and the extra fuel effieciency. Not to mention draining out ASAP any residual shavings or such that might be in their from the initial break in.
One reason I switched to synthetic a long time ago is the fact that I'm not wasting non-renewable resources, I usually go somewhere between 6,000 to 12,000 miles between synthetic oil changes (also use Mobil 1 filters). I am always amazed at the pristine black oil (no sludge, bubbles or particulates) that drains out looking into the engine I see no indications of wear. I've been using the stuff since it came in a can through mail order and the original Mobil 1 can stated 25,000 miles between changes.
Got 150k out of my 5.0 Mustang LX (traded it in on the Windstar), and currently 100K out of both my Contour SE and Windstar SE. All cars engines run great and none have needed any engine work. I expect to hold on to the Sonata LX for 10 years as well and after the initial oil change will follow Hyundai's 7500 interval while under their warranty then may go longer between drains after that.
I
I stand corrected!
I give the 2006 Sonata LX high marks in just about every category. The power, handling and brakes are excellent (even keeping it under 4000 RPM during break in) can't wait to really wind it out in a few weeks! The looks are great. I like the manual shift feature, it is nice to downshift when coasting to a stop instead of using the brakes all the time. I have yet to see another LX on the road yet. I keep on thinking those accords may be Sonatas from the back, but the Sonata looks better. It has a nice raised in back stance when you park it. Looks fast even at a stop.
The interior is fine I don't find it dull at all. There is plenty of room in all seats and the trunk is huge.
It makes me buckle my seat belt by it's annoying ring right after you drive.
Cons...
Really nothing major! But I'll nitpick a little for some clarity...
The seats could be more comfortable for longer drives. My wife liked the leather seats for comfort in our 1995 Contour better, I agree. I think it is because the seats in the Sonata are much firmer (sportier). I find for normal trips (less than an hour) there is no issue but she is probably right a few hours in those seats at a time may be on the uncomfortable side especially if you have a lousy back like she does. Be aware because of the airbags you cannot alter the seats at all and maintain proper operation (no sheepskin or different padding etc.).
Gas mileage... hopefully it improves 20.5 is a little on the low side. Hopefully after a few more miles and synthetic oil the MPG will improve to the mid twenties.
The horn is a little on the tinny side.
Things I found out that I didn't know when I bought it...
The power plug in the trunk... great for electronic usage in the back seat.
The trip computer has lots of functions. Good MPG estimates and range to empty.
The speed sensitve door lock feature(currently disabled), we really like that feature on out Windstar. BTW I'm having it turned on at the dealer next Tuesday.
The gas cap holder in the gas door... just screw it in, no dangling.
The fact that the compass needs to be set to your specific region for accuracy. Probably not set by the dealer correctly. Think it was on the Alabama zone.
All the little touches... a handle inside the trunk to pull it down, the ridges in the door handle to grip better, the underside of the vehicle is streamlined and protected well. The EXCELLENT owners books... very well laid out and detailed.
Easy car to wash and wax... very streamlined.
I still look forward to driving everytime I need to... it's a great car so far. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED even at MSRP.
base model for $15,500, after owners loyalty rebate. I asked my wife If I can get one, she said "Keep your promise". When I got my 2000 SONATA, I told her I will keep my car until the warranty runs out. This HYUNDAI's long warranty kills me. I still have 5 years 40000 miles warranty left. I might be the only one who hates HYUNDAI's long warranty. I may have to work overtime to change her mind........I just can't wait to have one.
By the way, I don't understand people's complaint about Korean cars trade in value. People can't do simple math or what? This happened 2 weeks ago. My brother-in -law just married to a lady in Seattle who has Minit-Mart. Since he will move to Seattle to help her business, he decide to get a full size truck from Dodge. He asked trade in value of his 2003 Kia Sorento which he paid $19,000 brand new. Sales person told him only $9000 because 4X4s are not popular at summer time and hige gas price makes it worse. My in-law was very upset about Kia's low trade in value, and decide to trade his wife's 2003 Toyota Highlander which she paid $34,000 brand new. You know how much same dealership offered her?.......$21,000. Do your own math to figure who is losing more money. After all they decide to keep Kia because Sorento is bigger car than Highlander.
I am using Mobil 1 filters $11.99 on my current cars (spin on). I contacted Mobil about the 2006 Hyundai Sonata and they said that they "typically" do not make cartridge filters... so for now only Hyundai's own filter element is available as far as I know for now. I'm sure it is good for 7500 miles. Hopefully if I keep the car pas 100,000 miles by then Mobil 1 will make a filter so I can go even longer on the drain times and still feel safe. Mobil 1 filters fiter at 96% effieciency vs. low to mid 80 percent for most others... why not 100%? Because you need proper flow rates so 96% is as good as you can get and still have a filter that works.
I'm taking my car in on Tuesday to have the automatic door lock feature turned on, I will buy a cartridge insert and probably do my first Mobil 1 oil change on Wednesday. I let you know how it goes.
I think it is a good idea to buy the filters at Hyundai during the warranty because there exists a record that you bought a filter element so you have some proof as to doing the oil change in case any warranty issues creep up.