Popular Mechanics: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Test Drive

[dataguy]

In testing a GLS (base) model:

The most important thing about the new Sonata is what it's not—boring. Hyundai has made a habit these days of studying the benchmark in a class of vehicle, and nearly duplicating the style and performance of that car for far less money. The midsize sedan MVP, at least in terms of sales, has traditionally been the Toyota Camry—not the most exciting pony in the barn. So Hyundai could have emulated the Toyota's milquetoast formula. Not so. The new Sonata looks upscale, like a cross between a Mercedes-Benz CLS and a Lexus ES 350. But more importantly, it's roomy, powerful and returns better EPA fuel-economy numbers than most of the midsize sedans in the class. Next time around, Hyundai might actually end up benchmarking itself.

http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/4346804.html

 

[DavidNJ]

As far as I know, the only complaint has been the 4 cylinder motor being a bit noisy/rough. It is hard (impossible?) to avoid that with a 2.4 liter four, even with balance shafts.

On the other hand a 2.4L straight 6 or to a lesser extent 60° or 120° six can be quite smooth. However, with the desire for the higher expansion ratios and the thermodynamics pointing to an 85mm piston diameter a 2.5 liter 6 doesn't make the sense it once seemed to.

 

[ctrcbob]

The Chrysler 2.7 DOHC 24V V6 was/is a beautiful small displacement engine that loves to rev. Only problem with it, is that it was Sludge Monster, at least in its early years. I had one, and changed the oil OFTEN. It was a great small displacement V6, very smooth, but those early engines would SLUDGE, and the engine got itself a bad name.

A small displacement V6 that loves to spin (and with large oil return lines so it would not sludge) would work out just fine in a beautiful car like the 2011 Sonata. Although I have not yet test driven the 2011 Sonata, I just don't like buying 4 cylinder engines if I can help it.