AUGUST 2004 ISSUE  
? The Rise of the Middle Class
? Honda Accord
? Hyundai Sonata
? Mazda 6
? Mitsubishi Galant GTA
? Nissan Cefiro
? Toyota Camry

The Rise of the Middle Class

Hyundai Sonata
P997,000

What it lacks in cachet, it makes up for with a low price? and without skimping on the good stuff, either. The Jaguar-esque shape appeals to many, and the Sonata's interior is as attractive as the pricier competition. It even sports a four-speed automatic with a manual-shift mode, even of the engine isn't the hard-charging high-revver that some if the variable valve timing-equipped engines of its rivals are. Softly sprung in the tradition of South Korean cars, the Sonata rides like a larger car even though it's less roomy than the Toyota Camry. Steering effort is light and could do with more feedback, but the Sonata tracks accurately and turns in with modest body roll. - Andy Leuterio

Grins: Unabashed luxo-Brit styling, comfortable ride, has most of the goodies of the rest but at a lower price.

Grimaces: Unathletic chassis, engine could use a few more horsepower, no available leather seats.

The Lowdown: A boulevardier that won't break the bank.

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