Oh dear, yet another really close Sonata-Accord duel. The Sonata is clearly ahead in several areas. It rides superbly on its designed-for-India suspension, straight-line stability is super and while cruising the silent motor delivers considerable punch even from low engine speeds. The rear seat is the more comfortable, and the Sonata is as well equipped as the Honda. Performance is effortless though it lacks the outright pace of the Accord which is aided by a silky five-speed auto box.
The Accord manages to pip the Hyundai by the narrowest of margins. It's the more attractive looking of the two, easily the more refined, and the classy, well-built interiors give it that plush feel that's so important on a car in this class. Along with the Honda badge, the Accord delivers exactly what luxury car customers want and simply feels richer than the Sonata. That's the reason it has outsold all other luxury cars in the market put together. To counter this, Hyundai is expected to price the new Sonata aggressively, in line with the current model. So, expect all hell to break loose.