A driver's hands should be on the wheel all the time when driving, and Hyundai has graced the Sonata GLS with a steering wheel with buttery soft leather. It's indicative of the attention given to details of the Sonata's interior. The ignition switch is on the dash, rather than plugged into the steering column. The front seats are broad, for maximum comfort, lightly bolstered but not really enough for sporty driving, appropriate for this sedan. Different colored vinyl is used on upper and lower dash, and the plush fabric used on the seats is repeated in door panels. The GLS also has a two-compartment center armrest. Around the center stack, the GLS gets a splash of artificial wood that will fool no one but oddly enough is appropriate for this model. A frame of burnished aluminum around the automatic shifter frames a standard PRND quadrant, with a Shiftronic slot alongside. Only the ashtray feels flimsy. The glovebox opens with a firm feel. The rear seat folds 60/40 allowing long items to pass through from the trunk. With the seatbacks in place, there's a bench contoured for two passengers but with three-point belts for three people. The seatback includes a folding center armrest. Map pockets are provided on the backs of the front seats. The back seat offers good room for two adults, with sufficient legroom and comfort for a long trip. For 2002, Hyundai has provided electric switches for the trunk and fuel door release. The power releases are easier to reach and operate, and are placed on the driver's door. The trunk itself is large, at 14.1 cubic feet. Articulated trunk lid supports stay out of the trunk: no more crushed groceries from or luggage in the way of traditional trunk lid hinges.
|