1999 - 2001 Hyundai Sonata - European Style and Japanese-like Reliability
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| This year 2000 Sonata GLS V6 proved to be a comfortable car, with reasonable performance. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Want something distinct and original? Look no further than Hyundai's 1999 through 2001 Sonata. Its unique oval waterfall grille, large round headlamps, sleek profile and artistically detailed circular taillamps make a statement of upscale refinement most of its midsize peers simply do not embody.
That said the previous generation Sonata not only looks refined, it is. From its ride to its much improved handling the car doesn't disappoint. Its interior plastics moved up a grade from the preceding 1998 model, while seat fabrics have proven to wear well over time.
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| The 2001 Sonata replaced the previous waterfall-style grille with this new one. Other upgrades were even more subtle as an all-new model was about to be launched for 2002. |
The 1999 base GL model came standard with a fair load of features too, including air conditioning, an AM/FM/cassette audio system, center console, dual front airbags, intermittent wipers, power brakes, power door locks, power mirrors, power steering, power windows, rear window defroster, remote trunk release, front side airbags, tachometer, tilt steering wheel and tinted glass.
Move up to the top-line GLS and alloy wheels, an AM/FM/CD audio system, cruise control, power heated mirrors and a power antenna are added. Options included an alarm system, cassette player, anti-lock brakes (ABS), keyless entry, leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power driver seat, power moonroof, rear spoiler and traction control.