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2012 Hyundai Sonata vs 2012 Toyota Corolla

Sonata

  

2012 HYUNDAI SONATA 2012 TOYOTA COROLLA

 

The 2012 Hyundai Sonata is a midsized family sedan available in: GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. Standard equipment on the GLS includes 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, heated mirrors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, a 60/40-split rear seatback, a trip computer, Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an iPod/USB audio interface, an auxiliary audio jack and steering-wheel-mounted controls.

The sole optional equipment package for the GLS includes alloy wheels, automatic headlights and an eight-way power driver seat. The sporty SE includes all of the above and adds 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, fog-lights, a dark chrome grille, a sport-tuned suspension, keyless ignition/entry and leather/cloth upholstery. Opting for the SE with the turbocharged engine also adds dual-zone automatic climate control and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. An optional Navigation and Sunroof package bundles a navigation system with touch-screen display, a rearview camera, premium Infinity speakers and a sunroof.

The plush Sonata Limited has all the SE's features, but substitutes 17-inch alloy wheels, a more comfortable suspension and full leather upholstery. It also gains side mirror turn signal repeaters, a panoramic sunroof, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an upgraded audio system (with HD radio) and unique interior accents. The turbocharged Limited variant adds 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust tips and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The Limited's sole optional package includes the navigation system with the touch-screen display, a back-up camera and premium Infinity speakers.

The Sonata feels as well built inside as it does out. The Hyundai Sonata will be a favorite with taller drivers due to its greater front head- and legroom than the Toyota Corolla. Inside, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata is a lot of car for the money. A hefty list of standard features, even on the base GLS model, like Bluetooth and USB iPod inputs, are offered only as added-cost options by the competition. New for 2012 is the addition of Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system, which is standard on all trim levels.

Reviewers like that the Sonata’s interior features are easy to use and have a good layout. They like the interior styling and material quality. The interior of the 2012 Sonata features a modern design, with controls that are easy to operate, and plenty of passenger space, especially in the back seat.

 


 

HYUNDAI SONATA

TOYOTA COROLLA

PRICING SUMMARY

 

 

MSRP

From $19,695 (GLS Sedan)

From $16,130 (GS Sedan)

 

MECHANICAL FEATURES

 

 

Base Engine

2.4 L

1.8 L

Cylinders

4

4

Drive Type

Front Wheel Drive

Front Wheel Drive

Fuel Capacity

19.5 gal.

13.2

Fuel Economy City/Hwy

24/35 mpg

27/34 mpg

Fuel Type

Regular Unleaded

Regular Unleaded

Horsepower

198 hp @ 6300 rpm

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque

184 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm

128 ft-lbs. @ 4400 rpm

Transmission

6-speed manual

5-speed manual

Due to its much higher torque, the engine of the Hyundai Sonata does a much better job of transmitting power to the wheels than the Toyota Corolla, and when it comes to horsepower, the Hyundai Sonata has a much more powerful engine than the Toyota Corolla. In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Hyundai Sonata and the Toyota Corolla. However, with significantly greater cargo capacity, the Hyundai Sonata will be able to haul more equipment or luggage than the Corolla. Furthermore, you'll have greater peace of mind with the more generous basic warranty of the Hyundai Sonata than that of the Corolla.

 

From just about every vantage point, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata presents a clear alternative to the other traditional midsized vehicles like the Toyota Corolla. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives the 2012 Hyundai Sonata four out of five possible stars in front crash tests, and five stars in both side and rollover tests. It earns five out of five stars in NHTSA’s overall safety rating.

 

The 2012 Hyundai Sonata also comes with a five-year/60,000-mile warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Both warranties are longer than what most of its competitors offer.

For additional information on this amazing example of automotive engineering, contact us today to schedule a test drive of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata.