What's New?
The Sonata gets a new model lineup for 2007, consisting of GLS, SE, and Limited models; the GLS is priced lower than last year's entry-level Sonata GL. New features include standard XM Satellite Radio, improved steering wheel audio controls, two new colors, and an available black leather interior for the Sonata Limited.

Overview
Hyundai's 2006 redesign of the Sonata front-wheel-drive midsize sedan represented a full-court-press to take on the most mainstream of mainstream cars: the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. While one could expect the South Korean automaker to be happy with the Sonata's strong start, they've made a host of improvements for the car's second year, including a new lineup of trim levels and a lower starting price.

The Sonata's former lineup—GL, GLS, LX—has been replaced by GLS, SE, and Limited. The 2007 GLS is priced several hundred dollars lower than the 2006 GL, though the list of standard equipment is similar: front, seat-mounted side, and side curtain air bags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, power windows/locks/mirrors, a CD/MP3 player (now with the addition of XM Satellite Radio), a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and air conditioning with a cabin filtration system.

Power for the Sonata GLS comes from a 162-hp, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. A new GLS Premium Sport package combines the 5-speed manual transmission with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, a trip computer, a power driver's seat, and jazzier interior trim. The SE adds a 234-hp, 3.3-liter V-6, a 5-speed automatic transmission, and features such as a sunroof, automatic headlights, and a trip computer. The Limited adds an automatic climate control system that automatically selects between fresh and recirculated air in response to outside air quality, as well as heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The Sonata is built in Korea as well as in the United States at Hyundai's new Alabama plant, which also produces the Santa Fe SUV. Like other Hyundais, the Sonata is covered by a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty with 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection.

The Competition
The Hyundai Sonata competes in the Midsize Conventional segment, which consists of 18 models. Buyers in this segment look for reliability, fuel economy, and performance, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Avoider Study^SM and the Escaped Shopper Study.^SM

The top sellers in the segment during calendar year 2006, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SM were the Toyota Camry (397,630 units sold), Honda Accord (354,441), and Nissan Altima (232,457). The Hyundai Sonata sold 149,513 units in 2006, an increase of 14.7 percent compared to the previous year. Other models offered in the Midsize Conventional segment include the Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6, Ford Fusion, Subaru Legacy, and Buick LaCrosse. Joining the segment in 2007 is the Saturn Aura.