New 2009 Hyundai Sonata Exterior Review [ 2008 , 2007 ]

MSRP: $18,300 - $26,150
Invoice: $17,544 - $24,439
MPG: 21 (2008) City / 31 (2008) Hwy
Get local dealer price quotes:

U.S.News Scores

Overall:8.1
Performance:7.3
Exterior:7.0
Interior:8.1
Safety:NA
Reliability:NA
Research we analyzed for this review

Exterior - What the Auto Press Says

Whereas the Sonata's powertrain and interior seem more like a redesign, the car's modified sheetmetal is more of a refresh. Writers generally agree that updates are easy to miss, but they disagree one whether they appreciate the overall appearance.

  • "Changes to the exterior were fairly subtle." -- AutoWeek
  • "It does benefit from a bolder grille, restyled headlights and taillamps, new wheels and available chrome inserts on the front bumper." -- Chattanooga Times Free Press
  • "There's a hint of other cars' architecture, most notably segment heavyweights like the Camry, Accord, and Malibu." -- New Car Test Drive
  • "Anonymous exterior styling. … The big negative about the Sonata, at least for me, is its bland and forgettable exterior styling." -- BusinessWeek
Review Last Updated: 7/31/08