2003 Hyundai Sonata Review
Fuel Economy
20 - 23 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
If you're willing to take a gamble on a noncachet brand name for your midsize sedan, the Sonata just may pluck at your heartstrings.
Pros
Excellent warranty, stylish sheet metal, pleasant highway ride, lots of bang for your family-sedan buck.
Cons
Noisy four-cylinder engine, some cheap interior bits.
What's New for 2003
After receiving significant upgrades last year, the Sonata receives only minor changes this year. Among these are a battery-saver feature (in the event that any of lights are left on); illuminated window switches; a 12-volt power point in the trunk; and electronic, rather than cable-operated, releases for the trunk lid and fuel door. Additionally, Hyundai announced that it had misstated the horsepower ratings for all of the models in its lineup in previous years, so the Sonata's four-cylinder is now rated at 138 horsepower (down from 149) and its V6 is rated at 170 (down from 181), though the engines themselves are unchanged.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Love my Sonata
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Hyundai Sonata LX 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I bought my 03 Sonata brand new in 2003. I have loved the look and performance ever since. It now has over 100K miles on it and it's still going strong. We drive from OK to Galveston, TX yearly without any issues. I would definitely buy another one, when this one gives out, that is.
Favorite Features
Great leather interior. Still looks new.
Suggested Improvements
Better quality on inside door handles. Fake silver peels off.
Cheap to Buy - Expensive to Maintain
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 5 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 2 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 5 | Reliability: | 3 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 5 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Hyundai Sonata GLS 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
The Sonata is about $5k less on average to own vs the Honda Accord & Toyota Camry. However I do know about 6 yrs into ownership that in the end I spent much more in repairs on this "cheap car" than going with one of the others. First everything on this car at the garage is "special parts" & expensive. Needs special transmission fluid when flushing, special tires (racing ones found on a Jag)at about $130/tire & already replaced 2 sets. The power radio antenna broke-$300. The power steering line rusted & broke-repair pending. Have 134,000 mi on it presently & gone through 3 sets of brakes & pads an most of driving is wide-open hwy. I suggest buying a better car up front & save $ in long r
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
Just stay away from a Hyundai, you will save $ up front but spend so much more in the end. The "true cost of owning" and headaches far out weigh the savings - never again
Excellent Car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 5 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Hyundai Sonata GLS 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
I bought my Sonata GSL 03 with all the bells and whistles new and couldn't be happier. Going on 6 yrs replaced brakes @50,000, just did timing belt @ 83,000. Did oil change every 3,000- 5,000 miles other than that general maintenance.Not thrilled with dealer very poor customer service. I have found overall excellent performance and comfort level. Arm rest worn and power lock just went. Previously owned Mederces, Cadillac, TBird, Mustang, Lincoln,
Favorite Features
Sun roof, cruise control, inside interior, very comfortable.
Suggested Improvements
Sound system,
Great car!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Hyundai Sonata GLS 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
Bought this car used from the previous owner at a great price. My husband found the bargain and I was not so sure at first, but after a complete detailing and some personal touches I'm in love! This car looks like a little jag and handles like a dream. She has looks and kick. The headlights were cloudy and yellowing when I bought her but I found a plastic polish from Meguire's that made them look almost new again. Since purchase, she has needed new tires w/ alignment and a new spark plug (tune-up soon). The washer fluid pump does not work, will have to look into for repair. Rear view mirror functions not working either.
Favorite Features
Interior comfort and size (very quite), trunk size, sun roof, power outlets (in the trunk too!), arm rest in back seat has storage & drink holders, access to trunk from interior.
Suggested Improvements
Gas mileage, more seat adjustment options for driver.
Great car, so far
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Hyundai Sonata LX 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
Bought this car new in late 2003. The only issue has been a failed rear window defroster. Hyundai installed a new rear window and everything has been fine since. I replaced the awful Michelin MXV4 tires with Kumho Solus KH16s which are light years better under all conditions. It still has the factory battery!
Favorite Features
Leather seats, styling, excellent climate control system, highway gas mileage of 30 mpg with the V6, ABS and Traction Control are great.
Suggested Improvements
I only wish it had heated seats and iPod integration.
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