The Hyundai Sonata, which will be replaced by an all-new model in 2006, tops off a remarkable turnaround for Korean automaker. Long thought of as one of the worst vehicles in terms of quality, Hyundai has changed that reputation into one based on reliability, features, warranty and aggressive pricing.
So get those 2004 Sonatas while they last, folks. And while you're at it, don't take the news that domestics have once again trailed imports as an indication that if you buy Detroit Iron, you're getting yourself a trip or ten to the service bay. Scores are improving: DaimlerChrysler, Ford, and General Motors inched closer to Asian automakers with an overall problem rate of 17 per 100. Last year, U.S. automakers had a combined problem rate of 18 per 100. Ford and Pontiac were the highest rated domestic brands, with a rating of 15 out of 100 vehicles. The worst domestic brand was also the worst overall, as Lincoln registered a combined 26 problems per 100 vehicles. The Lincoln Navigator was a primary culprit, rating a lousy 49 problems out of 100, bad enough to tie the Nissan Quest at the bottom of the list.
