Sonata is Hyundai's midsize entry, and faces some very stiff competition in this category. Ford's new Contour/Mystique populates this class of automobiles, as does the new Cirrus/Stratus duo from Chrysler, and perennial favorites such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Mazda 626. Heady competition indeed.

Hyundai's forte to date has been budget prices and standard (or low priced) luxuries that couldn't be matched by competitors. It seems those days are over. The Sonata GLS we sampled ran nearly $21,500. True, it was well loaded with automatic, sunroof, leather and power everything, but a similarly equipped Contour SE or Chrysler Cirrus is priced less than the Sonata. Considering Hyundai's quality record, we don't find the GLS to be a viable option in this class, particularly since the Contour/Mystique twins are a real kick in the pants to drive.

That's not to say that the Sonata isn't a satisfying car. The doors thunk shut nicely, it is quiet and comfortable inside, and the leather makes it feel like a much more expensive sedan. Everything looks and functions as though quality has been built-in, but the radio and climate controls are a tad overdone. The back seat could benefit from better thigh and back support, but it isn't any more uncomfortable that the rear quarters of a Dodge Stratus. Overall, we are impressed with this roomy effort from Hyundai.

Unfortunately, the Sonata competes with many cars that feel as good and often cost less money. Factor in the depreciation that the Hyundai is sure to endure, as well as the questionable quality levels of past Sonatas, and this new one's shine begins to dull. At $18,500, the leather-lined Sonata GLS would begin to look like a bargain, but $21,500 is better spent on something else.

1996 Highlights

Noise, vibration and harshness are quelled with the addition of insulation to the floor and cowl, and liquid-filled V6 engine mounts. ABS is available as a stand-alone option on the GLS, and Steel Gray joins the color chart. Upgraded seat fabric comes in the base and GL models, while all Sonatas get CFC-free A/C.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 1996 Hyundai Sonata.

5(50%)

4(50%)

3(0%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

4.5

4 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Surpirsed

Stewart,04/07/2002

4dr Sedan

I bought the car as the cheapest car in which I could comfortably seat 5 people. It has turned out to be a longterm dependable car. At 100k it hos only been in the shop a couple times and still runs strong.

Sonata Requiem

cicco,08/28/2002

4dr Sedan

My neighbor just totaled my parked Sonata. I will miss this car. I bought it in spite of my kids scorn and never regretted it. I had no repairs other than maintenance in the 122,000 miles I drove it. I was expecting to get another 50K miles of satisfied driving out of it.

Great car, could do better on the road

Binnie The Gooh,09/07/2003

GLS 4dr Sedan

It´s a great car, but they could make it better suitible for the raod like when you are taking sharp turns it slides to the sides alot but it can be controlled, this is a sedan version, so why not make it perfect!!

I like it alot

noodle_head,02/17/2004

GL 4dr Sedan

When i got on this website i looked through the cars i didnt find one my style or in my price range.Im sixteen years old and my parents are on a tight budget and i need a cheap car and this one looks real cheap and very nice.But i know i could not and cant really afford it so i guess im just gonna rate it.

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Features & Specs

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Safety

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Driver3 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Side Barrier Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front SeatNot Rated
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
RolloverNot Rated
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of RolloverNot Rated

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
Poor

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More about the 1996 Hyundai Sonata

Used 1996 Hyundai Sonata Overview

The Used 1996 Hyundai Sonata is offered in the following submodels: Sonata Sedan. Available styles include GL V6 4dr Sedan, GL 4dr Sedan, 4dr Sedan, and GLS 4dr Sedan.

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Should I lease or buy a 1996 Hyundai Sonata?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

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1996 Hyundai Sonata Review

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Vehicle overview

1996 Highlights

Consumer reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Features & Specs

Safety

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Used 1996 Hyundai Sonata Overview

What's a good price on a Used 1996 Hyundai Sonata?

Which used 1996 Hyundai Sonatas are available in my area?

Can't find a used 1996 Hyundai Sonatas you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Should I lease or buy a 1996 Hyundai Sonata?

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