Nah, I really think it looks good.
2011 Hyundai Sonata
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Now tell me who copied who. That's a VW Passat for those who don't know.
Update!
First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T
First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T
First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata TurboYou won't miss a V-6.
Hyundai will position the Sonata 2.0T as a polished and powerful V-6 replacement, not as an edgier, sportier sedan. To deliver that refined character, there's now a balance shaft that does wonders to smooth and calm the engine as you push it to the 6600-rpm redline. The new engine also benefits from direct injection and a higher compression ratio, and a larger, twin-scroll turbocharger runs 17.4 psi of boost to deliver 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque on regular unleaded. Those numbers beat every competitor's mid-size sedan -- whether equipped with a V-6 or a turbo four-cylinder -- save for the 280-hp Volkswagen CC VR6. Peak torque is available from 1800 to 4500 rpm, but in most gears, the turbo can't achieve full boost until about 2900 rpm--and output is limited in the lower gears to avoid overwhelming the front tires. Once underway, though, the Sonata 2.0T is more than hearty enough for its mission as a V-6 replacement. Factory-measured acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is a lively 6.5 seconds.
With such performance and power, it's remarkable that Hyundai can also deliver fuel economy to shame less powerful, normally aspirated four-cylinders. The 22 mpg city rating is great, putting the Sonata on par with the most fuel-efficient, nonhybrid mid-size sedans. But 34 mpg on the highway is truly exceptional, with the nearest competitor being a 33-mpg, 169-hp Toyota Camry.
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2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T First DriveArtificial Intelligence: Naturally Aspirated V-6? Nah, Says Hyundai.
Although our drive time was limited to a few laps around a handling course and a couple runs along a lengthy straightaway, we did notice that the 2.0T's ride was a wee bit busy and the steering felt somewhat artificial. We experienced similar traits in a 2011 Sonata 2.4 SE that we ranked third in a seven-car comparison test. That said, Hyundai is still fine-tuning the 2.0T's front strut/rear multi-link suspension as well as the electric power steering system, so we wouldn't be surprised if the Alabama-built production cars deliver a better ride/handling compromise.
On paper, the new Sonata Turbo makes a compelling case for never needing a V-6. It produces more power and torque than most 3.5-liter midsize sedans, all while delivering fuel economy on par with many naturally aspirated 2.0-liter subcompacts. Further, its spec sheet handily humbles those of comparable four-doors with four-cylinder turbos. Still, the big question remains: Can this mightiest of Sonatas humble its V-6 and turbo-four foes in the real world? We intend to find out.
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How To Replace Your V6 in One Easy Step
First Impression:
Hyundai left no stone unturned in developing this turbocharged-4, and it's a convincing substitute for a V6.
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Update!
First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata HybridA hybrid that's comfortably familiar
Although it may not have the cachet of hybrid-only styling like a Toyota Prius, the Sonata's normalcy is a good thing-especially when it comes to driving. The gas/electric Hyundai provides the mechanical ebbs and tides of rpm, torque, and engine growl as the gears change. With that character, the Sonata joins the ranks of the Porsche Cayenne and the Honda CR-Z as hybrids that are enjoyable- even fun-to drive.
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2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid First DriveHyundai Fires Up Its Family Sedan -- Gas-Electric Style
On sale at the end of this year, the Sonata Hybrid is a well thought-out, well executed, and progressive hybrid. As the first in its class to boast a lithium-polymer battery and six-speed automatic transmission, as well as nearly 40 mpg on the highway, it is bound to shake up the competitive set. With our Car of the Year Fusion Hybrid currently on the road and an all-new Camry Hybrid due out in early 2011, we, and surely Hyundai and you, the reader, welcome the impending battle.
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Finding the White Space in Green
First Impression:
A novel way of cracking the hybrid nut, but it's too early to gauge success.
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