2009 Hyundai Sonata Embera diesel review, road test

The Sonata’s dash feels distinctly downmarket. You do get a two-tone interior and the dash has a nice sweep to it, but things like the instruments, door handles, air con controls and gear lever knob are built of poor quality plastic. Also an odd-looking music system coupled with the small vents and cheap stalks mean it really feels out of its league for quality and build.

If space and comfort are what you seek, this is the car to be driven in. The Sonata easily has the most width, there’s acres of legroom here and the rear seat is comfy enough to give an Accord a complex. There is plenty of thigh support, the backrest is inclined perfectly and even a third passenger will be very comfortable here.