usy year for Korean maker David as: OVERDRIVE HYUNDAI STARTED the 1995 model year introduc- tion early this year with the debut of the completely revamped Sonata family sedan this past spring. The Sonata competes head-on with the high volume sellers from Japan and the U.S., such as the Honda Accord, Mazda 626, and Ford Taurus, and although the car has been on the market for some time, it deserves a second visit. The family car segment is one of the toughest and most competi- tive markets, but fortunately — thanks to Hyundai's proven aggres- sive pricing strategy — the Sonata should shine among the more expensive Asian competitors by offering more value for the doilar. The prices of the new 1995 Sonata models are easily a few thousand dollars less than other mid-size cars, which means that Hyundai is really selling a mid- sized car at a compact car price. The base Sonata GL starts at just $15,295, and the well equipped V-6 GLS models begins at under $20,000. The dual airbags are optional on the base Sonatas, and standard on the high line GLS models. The new Sonata is larger in just about every dimension, and is roughly the same size as the Honda Accord. The generous wheelbase and track increases, improved pow- ertrain, stiffer chassis, redesigned suspension, full safety features, and numerous other changes raise the standard of the Sonata to a new level not attained previously. On the outside, Hyundai's designers have carved out a much cleaner, rounder body, with design cues taken from Acura, Toyota and Mazda products. A close look at the body gaps. seams, and lines suggest that. the manufacturing peo- ple have done their homework — everything looks tight. The overall result is a contemporary looking vehicle that looks more expensive than what the price tag might sug- . gest. The interior follows the same story. Softer, friendlier interior controls and well supported seats make the Sonata’s cabin « pleasant place to spend time. Hyundai seems to have carefully researched what's considered best in the industry — often called bench- marking — and applied that know!]- edge in designing the interior. Both the GL and GLS sedans are powered by the tried-and-true 2.0-ltre 16-valve four-cylinder Iv modified for 1995. By redesign- ing the valve timing, ignition dim- ing. intake ports and engine control unit, Hyundai was able to squeeze out more power and torque (increase of 11 hp and 6 Ib.-ft. respectively), while other changes contribute to a quicter, smoother running gear. A more powerful, Mitsubishi- oased 3.0-litre SOHC V-6 is avuil- able on both models for about $1,000 —- not a bad investment when you look at the considerable improvement in acceleration over the four-cylinder models. Zero-to- hundred times are cut from about 13 seconds for a 2.0-litre automatic model to 10 seconds for a V-6 automatic version. No, the acceleration numbers aren‘t too impressive, especially when compared to the V-6 equipped Mazda 626 and Toyota Camry, but the Sonata does launch forward smoothly through the elec- tronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. A five- speed manual is only available on the base Sonata with the 2.0-litre engine. The Sonata doesn’t pretend to be a sports sedan, or cushy cruiser. for that matfer. Its compliant, yet stable ride-characteristic strikes a good balance between typically firmer European cars and softer American sedans. The handling isn’t razor sharp by any standards, but itis predictable, linear, and doesn't have the overboosted feel of some family cars. While the Sonata kept Hyundai busy this past months, it isn’t the only significant news for the 66 The Sonata should shine among the more expensive Asian competitors by offering more value for the money. 99 Korean carmaker. To spice up the affordable economy car market. Hyundai is introducing an all-new car called the Accent to replace the aging Excel model. Roomier. smoother, and more refined than its predecessor, the Accent promises to deliver true value by offering what the buyers want in this type of car: excellent fuel economy, trendy design, and no-frills pricing structure. Powered by an improved 1.5- litre four-banger, the new Accent is available in three- and four-door configurations. The Accent boasts stylish design inside and out, and should appeal to the 20-and-30- something crowd who are looking for something simple and afford- able. The Accent starts at just $8,995, but the top-of-the-line model creeps up to over $12,000. (Look for a full test report by Greg Wilson in a future column). The Accent will not be the last new model to appear in Hyundai showroonis. in fact, Hyundai plans to bring out anew model every year until =e FPR tore WHO TO CALL: Auto Editor A.P. McCredie 985-2131 (113) NEWS photo Mike Wakefield THE LATEST addition to the Regency Auto Group is the new GM dealership at 1160 Marine Dr. in North Vancouver. included in the new dealership Is the prestigious Cadillac line. From $112.95 P195/70R14 From $69.95 P165/80R13 529° Se Price P155/80RI3 $39.95 P165/80R13 48.95 PI85/75R14 57.95 PI9S/75R14 58.95 P205/75R15 68.95 1a5/RiA $29.95 155/R13 44.95 175/70R13 54.95 Hh 185/70813 58.95 A 185/70R14 60.95 P155/80R13 P165/B0R13 P175/80R13 P185/80R13 PI95/75R14 P235/75R15 235/75R15 SIX1O50R1S 235/85R16 245/75R16 $54.95 59.95 63.95 66.95 70.95 $99.95 108.95 129.95 129.95 139.00 Keeping your car in peak condition requires regular preventative service ty ensure that your car's engine and sysiems run smoothly. Earn Benus Air Miles. Purchase 4 Goodyear tires and get 45 bonus Air Miles travel miles. Purchase 2 Goodyear lires and get 20 Bonus Air Miles travel mites. Mega Miles offers expire November 30, 1994. 1. tube, oil change and filter replacement to keep your engine clean. 2. Topping up of all fluids, including brake, windsheild, antifreeze, differential, transmission, power steering, and cit extra 4 litre jug of windshield washer flud 3. Belt tightening for improved driving performance, as required. 4. Four wheel tire rotation. 5. Tire inspection for cuts and snags and adjustment af air pressure. 6. Battery inspection and cable tightening. 7. Inspect front and rear brakes and clean as required. Ofter available at participating Good,ea' retailers unt December 31, 1994, GBMS 077603 GOODZVYEAR Were on a mission here Forn AIR AAILES on all Goodyeur tires and Service a! participating Goodyear reteilers Tire sale offers avalable until Nov. 5, 1994. 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