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The 2009 Hyundai Sonata gets more power, revised suspension tuning, a redesigned interior, and freshened exterior styling. This is the smaller of Hyundai’s two midsize cars. Sonata seats five and comes in GLS, SE, and Limited trims. All are available with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 175 hp, an increase of 13 from 2008. Sonata’s other engine is a 3.3-liter V6, which is also available on all models.

For 2009, this engine produces 249 hp, which is 15 more than last year. Manual transmission is standard on the 4-cylinder GLS and SE. A 5-speed automatic is optional on those models and standard on all other Sonatas. Previously, 4-cylinder models used a 4-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags.

The 2009 Hyundai Sonata GLS and Limited models get firmer suspension tuning. SE versions have a unique sport suspension. Limiteds include leather upholstery with heated front seats and automatic climate control. A navigation system with voice recognition is a new, Limited-exclusive option. All models are available with a dealer-installed wireless cell phone link.

The 2010 Hyundai Accent lineup gains a new low-price model that promises high fuel economy. Accent returns as a 2-door hatchback in GS and SE trims, and as a 4-door sedan in GLS form. New for 2010 is the base Accent Blue, which has equipment levels similar to the GS.

The Blue has specific transmission gear ratios and other aerodynamic tweaks that Hyundai says improves highway fuel economy up to 9 percent when compared with other Accent models. The sole engine is a 110-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard across the board. A 4-speed automatic is available on all but the Accent Blue.

Available safety features include ABS, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Power windows and locks and remote entry are optional on the GS and GLS. Accent lends its basic design to the Rio from Hyundai’s Kia division, but Rio differs in features, pricing, and warranty coverage.

The 2010 Hyundai Sonata is largely unchanged. Sonata seats five and comes in GLS, SE, and Limited trims. All are available with a 175-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. SE and Limited offer a 249-hp 3.3-liter V6. The GLS V6 has been discontinued. A manual transmission is standard on the GLS. A 5-speed automatic is optional on those models and standard on all other Sonatas.

Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. SE versions have a sport suspension. Limiteds include leather upholstery with heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. A navigation system with voice recognition is a Limited-exclusive option. A dealer-installed wireless cell-phone link is optional on all.

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family-oriented sedans and wagons. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Mercury Milan, and Toyota Prius. Our Recommended picks are the Kia Rondo, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, and Toyota Camry.