Used 2004 Hyundai Sonata
Buying Guide for the Hyundai Sonata:
The following scenario happens quite a lot with the Hyundai
Sonata: you’re minding your own business, cruising along the
freeway, when a silky sedan whips by you out of nowhere. You
blink a few times, stare at the vehicle’s elegant back end
and wonder, “What kind of a car was that?”
When you find out that it was a Hyundai, the first reaction
is usually one of shock. Not many people expect something
like that from one of the Korean manufacturer’s models. But
it happens all the time.
Rather than be on the gawking end, wouldn’t it be better
to be on the passing side? It’s not as if the Hyundai model
is expensive—that would be contrary to the company’s mission
statement. Plus, you’re covered by the formidable Hyundai
warranty: 5-years/60,000-mi. bumper-to-bumper, 10/100,000
powertrain.
Under the Hood
The base version of the front-wheel drive Sonata comes with
two engines. The first is a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder model
that it shares with a few other Hyundai vehicles. It will
produce 138 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed
manual transmission is standard; a 4-speed automatic transmission
with manual-shift capability is optional. Regardless, both
versions have a fuel economy of 22/30 mpg (city/highway).
The engine doing the dirty work for rest of the lineup is
a strong 2.7-liter V6. It gives the Sonata a noticeable jump
in acceleration and passing power, and is most likely the
powertrain that leads to the aforementioned scenario. The
2.7-liter V6 produces 170 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.
The larger V6 engine can be mate with both transmission types
as well. Manual models have a fuel rating of 20/27 mpg (city/highway),
while automatics get 19/27 mpg (city/highway).
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The base Hyundai Sonata is well equipped for its price. It
comes standard with air conditioning, side-impact airbags,
an AM/FM/CD audio system, a rear defroster, power mirrors,
windows and door locks, a 60/40 split folding rear seat and
cruise control.
The GLS is upgraded with deluxe cloth upholstery, woodgrain
accents, better carpet, an upgraded stereo, an improved center
console, dual map lights and rear cup holders. It also comes
with heated mirrors and a power antenna.
Top-line LX trims add on leather seating surfaces, automatic
climate control and an eight-way power driver's seat.
|
