2009 Hyundai Sonata Limited V6

Pros: Everything

Cons: Missing a Few Features

Summary: Do these CNET reviewers not proof read their reviews, or at least get someone to do it for them?

First the corrections. There IS a Bluetooth option for the 09 Sonata. It's a dealer installed option for $325. Second, the navigation is not made by Infinity, it's a proprietary system manufactured by Hyundai.

The review is a joke. This person spends more time worrying about how well the navigation system will understand spoken words than actually reviewing the car. What are the ambient noise levels like? How are the ergonomics? Are the seats comfortable? How did the brakes feel? How is the visibility? How big is the trunk and how accessible is it? What are the back seats like and how much room is back there? How do the controls operate, such as the power seats, window stalks, power windows, moonroof etc. Nothing. Instead we get someone overly obsessed with the voice operation of the navigation system and with the transmission/suspension.

For the record, I own a 2009 Limited V6 and the transmission is fine. There is no gear hunting. The suspension is perfect for a family sedan and it has never once bottomed out on me. I drive 20 miles each way to work and I'm averaging 26 mpg with the A/C blowing all the time. That commute is in stop and go traffic with a bit of freeway time. The only way to get 23 mpg out of the car would be mashing the accelerator constantly. Of course the reviewer never mentions their driving style, so I take the comment about poor mileage with a grain of salt. I have seen as high as 30 mpg doing 70 on the freeway. This is a fantastic V6 and very fuel efficient.

Not only is the review poor, but it sounds like the reviewer got a bum car. My Sonata has none of the problems mentioned. I love the suspension, it's perfect. It smooths over the bumps and it has a velvety highway ride. The brakes are powerful and I find the transmission to be very responsive. No problems whatsoever.

Hyundai has a home run with this car. The 09 refresh is going to steal lots of sales from Honda and Toyota, rightfully so. It's a fantastic car, don't let this poor review scare you away from test driving it yourself. At least you won't have to worry about the voice recognition of the nav system, as this reviewer pretty much covered that thoroughly.