Hyundai has wrapped the Sonata's steering wheel in a leather-like urethane that's buttery soft and wonderful to the touch. It's characteristic of the attention given to detail throughout the Sonata's interior. The ignition switch is on the dash, more convenient than having it on the steering column.

The Sonata's front seats are broad for maximum comfort, and lightly bolstered, making it easy to slide in and out. The driver's seat bottom adjusts from cushy to firm via a pair of knobs on the side, so you can select between softness and support for your legs and posterior. And whether you opt for cloth or leather, the upholstery is comfortable and of decent quality.

The plush fabric on the seats is repeated in the door panels. The GLS and LX also have a two-compartment center armrest. The glovebox opens with a firm feel. Only the ashtray feels flimsy. There's a nice rubber-lined spot ahead of the shifter for your wallet.

The upper and lower portions of the instrument panel are dressed in contrasting shades of vinyl. Gauges are clearly marked. A splash of artificial wood around the center stack of the GLS and LX won't fool anyone, but looks somehow appropriate. A frame of burnished aluminum surrounds the automatic shifter quadrant, with the Shiftronic manual-override slot alongside. Illuminated manual-shift indicators were added for 2003.

It's easy to operate the Sonata's accessories without taking your eyes off the road. Radio controls are big, clearly marked and easy to manipulate. HVAC is straightforward, with two rows of big buttons and knobs that are easy to discern and operate. Window switches are conveniently mounted on the doors, but, alas, are not illuminated. Electric switches for the trunk and fuel door releases are placed on the driver's door, where they are easy to reach and operate. LX models now offer a HomeLink remote system and electrochromic inside rear view mirror as part of an option package.

The back seat area offers good room for two adults, with sufficient legroom and comfort for a long trip. The seat itself is contoured for two passengers, with a folding center armrest between them, but Hyundai has provided three-point seat belts for three people. Map pockets on the backs of the front seats add useful storage space.

Sonata's trunk volume is a decent 14.1 cubic feet. The rear seat splits and folds 60/40, allowing long items to pass through from the trunk. Articulated trunk lid supports stay out of the trunk itself, so you don't have to worry about groceries or luggage being crushed when you close the lid.