2008 Sonata Changes

[SuperGLS]

From Hyundai:

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America
announced pricing today for the 2008 Hyundai Sonata lineup. As gas prices
surge, Hyundai is smartly offering the powerful, yet fuel-efficient
2.4-liter DOHC inline-four cylinder engine in all trim levels, including SE
and Limited models, for the first time. Shoppers still looking for
low-priced V6 performance can now find the Sonata GLS V6 for $450 less than
last year's lowest price V6 model. The sporty SE version has also been
upgraded with standard performance tires, decklid spoiler and a power
driver seat. The previously optional Infinity(R) AM/FM/XM Satellite
Radio(R)/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system is now standard on the Limited
model.


GLS 2.4L I4 5-Speed M/T $18,195 including
$650 freight
GLS 2.4L I4 4-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) $19,395 including
$650 freight
GLS V6 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) $21,645 including
$650 freight
SE 2.4L I4 5-speed M/T $19,895 including
$650 freight
SE V6 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) $22,745 including
$650 freight
Limited 2.4L I4 4-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) $22,995 including
$650 freight
Limited 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) $24,695 including
$650 freight


NEW EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS
-- 2.4-liter DOHC inline-four cylinder now available on SE and
Limited trim levels
-- GLS V6 offered
-- Eight-way power driver's seat now standard on SE
-- New SE performance tire and standard decklid spoiler
-- Limited model now features the Infinity(R) AM/FM/XM Satellite
Radio/6-CD Changer/MP3 with six speakers, subwoofer and component
amplifier as standard equipment
-- New aluminum bodyside molding on Limited
-- New premium seat cloth on GLS and SE
THREE ENHANCED, WELL-EQUIPPED MODELS
From the well-equipped GLS, to the sport-focused SE, to the downright
luxurious Limited, the 2008 Sonata lineup addresses the needs and desires
of midsize-sedan customers with a highly competitive mix of features and
benefits. Each model delivers a level of standard equipment that is a cut
above comparable models.
SONATA GLS
With an MSRP of $18,195 (including freight), the 2008 Sonata GLS
continues to provide a sizable price advantage compared to its
four-cylinder competition, undercutting the lesser-equipped base 2007 Honda
Accord and 2007 Toyota Camry by $1,025 and $895 respectively. All Sonata
models have standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the most effective
lifesaving technology since the seatbelt, according to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In comparison, Accord four-cylinder
models are not available with ESC, while Toyota offers ESC as a $650 option
on the 2007 Camry.
Sonata features a sophisticated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine matched
to a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission, with a four-speed
SHIFTRONIC(R) automatic transmission optional. The new Sonata GLS V6 starts
at $21,645 - that's $2,515 less than the lowest price 2007 Camry V6 model,
and $2,300 less than the lowest price 2007 Accord V6 sedan.
The Sonata GLS features an impressive array of standard active and
passive safety features including ESC, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System
(TPMS), six airbags, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) and active front head
restraints. Other standard features include new premium seat cloth, power
windows, door locks and outside heated mirrors, keyless entry with alarm,
an AM/FM/XM Satellite/CD/MP3 audio system, 60/40 split fold-down rear
seats, air conditioning, cruise control and tilt-adjustable steering
column.
The Popular Equipment Package includes automatic headlights, chrome
window belt moldings, metalgrain/woodgrain interior accents, power driver
seat with lumbar support, steering wheel audio controls and a trip
computer.
SONATA SE - V6 OR I4 PERFORMANCE, REMARKABLE VALUE
The sport-focused SE adds a responsive, fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-
cylinder engine as standard equipment for 2008, matched with a
smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission. Other performance-oriented
SE features include 17-inch alloy wheels with new 215/55R17 all season
performance tires, a new rear decklid spoiler, fog lights, leather-wrapped
steering wheel and shift knob and an eight-way power driver's seat with
lumbar support (optional in 2007 MY). The new tires have stiffer sidewalls
and a unique tread design for more responsive steering and capable
handling. The Sonata SE V6 adds a five- speed automatic transmission and
dual chrome exhaust tips.
Other standard features include automatic headlights, chrome window
belt moldings, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, chrome window belt
moldings, telescoping steering wheel and a trip computer. The Premium
Package includes an AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system
with six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier, power/tilt sunroof
and an electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink(R) and a
compass.
SONATA LIMITED
Priced at $22,995 (including freight), the range-topping Sonata Limited
is a fully equipped luxury model for midsize buyers who want it all-at a
great price. Distinguishing exterior features include new aluminum bodyside
moldings, chrome center-bar grille and chrome-accented exterior door
handles. The interior features luxurious leather seating surfaces, a
standard Infinity(R) AM/FM/XM Satellite/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system with
six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier (optional in 2007 MY), an
eight- way power driver's seat and heated front seats. Other upgrades
include automatic temperature control, an electrochromic auto-dimming rear
view mirror with HomeLink(R) and compass, sliding center armrest, premium
scuff plates and 215/55R17 tires. The Sonata Limited is so well equipped
that the only option is a power/tilt sunroof. The Sonata Limited
four-cylinder comes with a four- speed automatic transmission, while the V6
features a five-speed automatic transmission. Both include the added
control of the SHIFTRONIC(R) manual shifting.
WARRANTY
The all-new 2008 Hyundai Sonata is protected by the Hyundai Advantage,
America's Best Warranty(TM). Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile
bumper- to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain
warranty, five- year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance and
seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Sonata
buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for
five years (no mileage limit) that includes emergency towing, lockout
service and limited coverage for trip- interruption expenses.

Thoughts?

[hyunelan2]

I'm sure some people will still be sad they can't have a limited with M/T, but at least the SE is available with M/T for them.

Honestly, when I drove a 2.4L Sonata, I thought power was good enough for it, but like the bells and whistles of the higher trim levels. If I were out to buy one today, it would actually be a tough decision if I wanted the 2.4 (mileage) or 3.3 (power) engine on the Limted trim. The big advantage of the 3.3 is that in A/T form it's still mated to the 5-speed auto trans, while the 2.4 meets up with the 4 speed.

[Doohickie]

This looks like Hyundai going back to the bread-and-butter method that got them noticed in US market- lots of content compared to the competition, with a low price. I think it will serve them well (again). Maybe similar marketing for the Elantra soon?

[BobMs_wht2k2]

2.4L 5-spd. Hands down winner. Drive one and you'll agree.

[SuperGLS]

Maybe similar marketing for the Elantra soon?

That's what I was thinking. The 2.4l is just made for the HD, let's hope they get some sense into them. I mean, we have lots of choices with the Sonata now, two engine choices for the Azera, so it just makes sense that they continue the trend with the Elantra (and perhaps even the Accent).

[05xd]

2.4L 5-spd. Hands down winner. Drive one and you'll agree.

I agree 100%.It seems like the 2.4 was made for the 5spd.You will have a hard time believing that it is a 4 cylinder

[Lawyer]

Thoughts?

:worthless

[SuperGLS]

Ha.

Here (http://www.hyundainews.com/Corporate_News/Corporate/05_29_2007_2261.asp) is the direct link to the Hyundai press release. They never have pictures with their press releases for some reason.

[Doohickie]

Drop a 2.4 in the new i30 wagon and voila!!!! The new Elantra GT! :)

[BobMs_wht2k2]

Plus the Sonata shifter is the best feeling Hyundai shifter I have ever touched. I hope the XD is as good.

[SuperGLS]

Full Press Release (http://www.hyundainews.com/Media_Kits/2008_Models/Sonata/Press_Release.asp).

[2001GLS]

I'm sure some people will still be sad they can't have a limited with M/T, but at least the SE is available with M/T for them.

Honestly, when I drove a 2.4L Sonata, I thought power was good enough for it, but like the bells and whistles of the higher trim levels. If I were out to buy one today, it would actually be a tough decision if I wanted the 2.4 (mileage) or 3.3 (power) engine on the Limted trim. The big advantage of the 3.3 is that in A/T form it's still mated to the 5-speed auto trans, while the 2.4 meets up with the 4 speed.

That's a good reason to consider the Kia Optima (Based on same platform as the Sonata) if you want the same 2.4L w/automatic. It comes with the 5 speed auto. Yet the V6 is an inferior 2.7L so the Sonata is better if you want a V6.

[ArunSenior04]

I still think Id go with the V6 over the I4. At nearly 3500lbs, I dont think the 2.4 would be as nice as having the V6, if gas werent an issue.

[SuperGLS]

I had a 2.4l Sonata loaner yesterday while my car was the dealer for the 60K and it's pretty impressive. Still, I agree, the V6 is the better choice.

[2001GLS]

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=121485#6

Some spy shots of the 2008 Sonata. I'm not liking the new front end. The chrome isn't to my taste, nor the more Elantra like headlights. Course I suppose it does make the model fall more into the rest of their line-up. Can't really tell enough about the back end to make a judgement yet. Dash is a definite improvement though. It's the one weak spot of the car IMHO. I just think Hyundai could have done a better job on the look and materials inside from the begining. Hopefully they will also firm up the suspension a bit. (The only other weak spot)

[Robert1955]

Isn't that the 2009? My dealer has 3 2008's on his lot as I type and I did not notice a big change other than the powertrain options.

[BobMs_wht2k2]

I just "Built My Own" Sonata. GLS 2.4L 5spd with the Sport package (17's, fogs, sunroof) with rebate 17945.

[2001GLS]

Isn't that the 2009? My dealer has 3 2008's on his lot as I type and I did not notice a big change other than the powertrain options.

Might be..... 08 should be out very soon.

[Ugzz]

wonder how hard it would be to put those front seats in my 06? hehe

sounds like its pretty solid, ive always been a fan