The Hyundai Sonata IV (EF series), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2001, represented a significant step forward for the South Korean automaker in the mid-size sedan segment. Produced from 2001 to 2004, this generation Sonata aimed to challenge established Japanese and American competitors with a combination of value, features, and a surprisingly refined driving experience. The 2.5 V6 model with an automatic transmission occupied a mid-to-upper position within the Sonata IV lineup, offering a balance of performance and convenience for buyers seeking more than the base four-cylinder engine provided. It was a key model in Hyundai’s push to gain market share in North America and other global markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata |
| Generation | Sonata IV (EF, facelift 2001) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 V6 (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 115.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 226 Nm @ 4000 rpm (166.69 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Delta / G6BV |
| Engine displacement | 2494 cm3 (152.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4747 mm (186.89 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front Wheel Drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2001-2004 Hyundai Sonata 2.5 V6 was the Delta engine, specifically the G6BV variant. This 2.5-liter (2494 cc) V6 engine featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. The engine employed a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produced 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 226 Nm (166.69 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. This transmission, while not offering the latest technology, was known for its reliability and adequate performance for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The Sonata 2.5 V6 Automatic offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder models. While not a sports sedan, the V6 provided sufficient power for confident highway merging and passing maneuvers. The four-speed automatic transmission, while lacking the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or a more modern automatic with additional gears, offered smooth shifts and contributed to a comfortable driving experience. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than outright acceleration. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Sonata, the automatic version sacrificed some responsiveness, but gained in ease of use, particularly in urban traffic. The automatic transmission also smoothed out the power delivery, making it more accessible to a wider range of drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5 V6 Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, often denoted by “GLS” or similar designations, added features like a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, alloy wheels, and leather upholstery. Optional extras could include a power driver’s seat, cruise control, and anti-lock brakes (ABS), which became increasingly standard as the production run progressed. The interior design was functional and relatively spacious, prioritizing comfort and practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Sonata IV utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS was often included as standard equipment on the 2.5 V6 models, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assistance, providing a responsive and predictable steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2001-2004 Hyundai Sonata 2.5 V6 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a solid and value-packed mid-size sedan. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively powerful engine. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel somewhat dated compared to those offered by competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to other V6-powered mid-size sedans, such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Sonata offered a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 2.0L four-cylinder models offered better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The V6 provided a noticeable upgrade in driving experience.
Legacy
The Hyundai Sonata IV, and particularly the 2.5 V6 Automatic variant, played a crucial role in establishing Hyundai as a credible competitor in the global automotive market. The Delta engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and many examples are still on the road today. While not known for exceptional performance or cutting-edge technology, the Sonata IV offered a compelling combination of value, comfort, and reliability. In the used car market, these Sonatas are often sought after as affordable and dependable transportation, though maintenance costs can increase with age. The 2.5 V6 automatic is generally considered a good choice for buyers looking for a comfortable and relatively powerful mid-size sedan from the early 2000s.
