USED Hyundai Sonata Saloon (05 - 09)

My car

I traded an XG30 for the new Sonata. I wish I had kept the XG. The Sonata stereo system is a cheap-looking after-market item, and the smart-looking, but totally useless, £600 optional remote control is a complete waste of money. The thing has a mind of its own and is so awkward to use - you just think 'forget it,' and drive in silence.

The gearbox is ok on my auto version, but the engine sounds like diesel, a huge let-down after the XG. It's definitely not the best car I have ever owned, and probably my last Hyundai.

I wish I had spent more and gone for the Chrysler 300.

My car

I have the 3.3 with four-wheel steering. It is more spacious than a Mercedes S-Class, can out-run a BMW M3. It is extremely comfortable for a tall driver such as myself, and the fuel economy is excellent.

I never feel the car being pushed to its limit. I always have confidence it has spare power, especially when overtaking on an incline. The stereo is extremely good and the cabin does not squeak. I had the 99 Model for six years and it never developed a single rattle.

Unlike my wife's brand-new Honda accord 2.4 VTEC, it grunts squeaks and rattles on poor road surfaces.

My recommendation is, at these prices, you would be silly not to buy one.

I agree about the lack of refinement on the 2.4 engine.