2003 Hyundai Sonata Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　After receiving significant upgrades last year, the Sonata receives only minor changes this year. Among these are a battery-saver feature (in the event that any of lights are left on); illuminated window switches; a 12-volt power point in the trunk; and electronic, rather than cable-operated, releases for the trunk lid and fuel door. Additionally, Hyundai announced that it had misstated the horsepower ratings for all of the models in its lineup in previous years, so the Sonata's four-cylinder is now rated at 138 horsepower (down from 149) and its V6 is rated at 170 (down from 181), though the engines themselves are unchanged.

　　

zzdcar says

　　If you're willing to take a gamble on a noncachet brand name for your midsize sedan, the Sonata just may pluck at your heartstrings.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Hyundai Sonata 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$161/mo  for Sonata Base

　　Sonata Base

　　4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M) - $15,499 MSRP4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 5M) - $15,499 MSRP4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A) - $16,299 MSRP4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A) - $16,299 MSRPGLS 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 5M) - $17,349 MSRPGLS 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A) (Most Popular) - $18,149 MSRPLX 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 5M) - $18,574 MSRPLX 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A) - $19,374 MSRP

　　vs

　　$164/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　

2003 Sonata Highlights

Trim: BaseGLSLXBase

　　

Base MSRP	$15,499
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	20 MPG
Cost to Drive	$180/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	14.1 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles