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People sometimes are unsure about how to pronounce Hyundai, and the result can be a series of strange-sounding “eeeuuus” and “aaaaeeees,” rather than the simple “Hyundai. Sounds like Sunday,” preferred by most company executives. But it's doubtful anyone would be confused about how much midsize auto there is for a scant pricetag, a reason it's our Sedan-Most Dependable winner for 2006. Sonata delivers a lot of car for a lot less cash, edging above the $20,000 mark only in the top two package levels. But that's only the initial attraction. Taking direct aim at fellow Asian car makers' claims of owning the top auto spot, Hyundai tested customer wants before forging out a four-year, ground-up redesign.
The result: more room inside and out, more refinement and a lot more coveted safety features, plus a choice of engines, transmissions and three trim levels. According to Hyundai (and no surprise to RTM judges), was how the new Sonata appealed to a younger, smart-money , style-conscious buyer. To meet their demands, there's a quieter interior for five, larger trunk, plenty of sophisticated luxury touches included or optional, and an easy rapport with the road. It's powered by a 2.4-liter inline four or 3.3-liter V-6 engine and manual or automatic trans with manual mode, all with good mileage and low emissions credentials. With five-year bumper to bumper warranty, including no deductible road service, we thought the GL, GLS and XL Sonatas would be music to buyers' ears.
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Dodge
Charger
Sedans
may come and sedans may go. But few do it with as
much brashness as Dodge Charger. The new iteration
of yesterday's legend comes packed with visual punch,
safe handling helps, perfectly balanced suspension
and self-leveling shocks for "world class ride,"
and the attitude one might expect from owing Hemi
power,. AutoStick transmission permits gear-searchihng
choices. A performance-based exhaust announces its
unmistakable presence. Its set of rear doors gives
it purpose beyond play. We give it will-rounded honors.
Honda
Accord
According to Honda, one shouldn't live without Accord.
Little argument there no matter the inference. This
mainstay mid-size sedan (and coupe) has loing held
an undisputed winner's spot in the dependable famiily
vehicle hierarchy. For 2006, there's no exception
as Accord gets an appearance update, packs in some
safety and technology adds, improves power choices
and appeals to energy consciousnes with a gas-electric
hybrid. Anticipating jarring surprises isn't what
Honda's about. Expect quiet quality and a long-range
bargain that can stand the test of time.
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