Better from the inside out

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Models and Pricing

The Sonata comes in three different trim levels: GLS, SE and Limited. All are available with the 3.3-liter V-6 or the 2.4-liter four cylinder. Prices start at $18,795 for a four-cylinder GLS and climb all the way to $26,345 for the V-6 Limited. Standard safety features on all Sonatas, including base models, include six airbags, stability control, active head restraints and anti-lock brakes. Beyond that, even your $18,795 will get you keyless entry, USB, AUX and iPod inputs for the audio system, tilt steering, and cruise control. Move up to the SE and you get alloy wheels, power driver’s seat, steering-wheel audio controls and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob standard. Limited models get pretty much everything available: standard leather seats with heated fronts, more chrome outside, automatic climate control inside, and a sunroof.

Options are grouped into packages for all three trim levels. Aside from your choice of engine (the V-6 costs between $1,200 and $1,700 depending on model), you can pick from various equipment levels, most of which bundle the usual things like power driver’s seat, trip computers, and lumbar support if it’s not already standard. The biggest option news for 2009 is the new navigation system. Available on Limited models for $1,250, it is your usual touch-screen and voice-activated setup. It offers up a sharp but slightly small screen, and we found it easy enough to use during our short time with the car.