Hyundai Sonata GLE 1995 Car Review

The four cylinder version of the Hyundai Sonata is a quietly competent vehicle with relatively few vices.

While not exceptional in any one area, the overall impression is one of quality and solidity. The reassuring 'clunk' when closing the doors is all too rare in the majority of vehicles sourced from our Asian neighbours and it would appear that the Koreans are learning their lessons quickly if a comparison is made between the first Hyundais released onto our market a few short years ago and the current models.

The segment of the market at which the Sonata is aimed is very competitive, with the most obvious rivals being the Mitsubishi Magna, Toyota Camry, Ford Mondeo and the Daewoo Espero. Amongst this lot, the Sonata definitely deserves consideration if value for money and equipment levels are prime considerations.

The 2.0 litre manual Sonata's standard specification and equipment levels are quite good for the asking price of $24,990. The same vehicle equipped with automatic transmission is priced at $26,852. The two V6 models, the GLS and the Levant, are priced at $34,990 and $38,990 respectively.

The inclusion of a standard driver's side airbag is praiseworthy, but strangely, anti-lock brakes are not even available as an option on this model.

Interior space and the general layout are very good; all the controls are within reach and are easy to use. But the manually adjustable exterior mirrors could be an inconvenience to owners whose Sonata has more than one regular driver.

The boot is large, has a flat surface and the boot lid goes down to bumper bar level for easy loading of goods. A major disappointment is the inclusion of a fixed rear seat, as a split fold rear seat would certainly enhance the versatility of the vehicle. There's not even a small hatch to poke long items through.

Seating comfort is very good, while the front seats tend to be a little firm, they are at the same time supportive and comfortable. Rear seat passengers should have no complaints with the seating comfort or the available legroom.

Engine performance of the automatic Sonata tested was acceptable, but nothing special. The automatic performed smoothly enough, but was reluctant to kick down at some speeds. There is quite a noticeable difference in performance between "power" and "economy" modes.

The NRMA Technical Department operates a manual GLE Sonata and I know from personal experience that its performance is much better than the automatic. The only trouble with the manual is that you then have to put up with Hyundai's crook gearshift. As with other models in the Hyundai family, the Sonata's gearshift is vague and heavy in its action, with overly long throws. Should you dare not to fully depress the clutch you will be suitably admonished by the sound of grinding gears or the refusal to select a gear at all. The majority of manual transmission/clutch combinations in other cars are a lot more forgiving than this.

The suspension tends to be a little harsh at lower speeds and the steering does not respond with immediacy. Coupled with tyre noise, this can make some driving situations rather tiring. However, it's felt that the suspension and steering are perhaps unduly handicapped by the standard fitment tyres. The vehicle gives the impression that enhanced performance in these areas would be available by fitting 'better quality' tyres, such as the Michelins that are standard equipment on the V6 models.

The standard four-wheel disc brakes are up to the job and respond well to various pedal inputs. The short time taken for the front wheel trims to be coated with brake dust could be a reason for concern at a later stage.