I grew up in a Chevy family, and me and my siblings just naturally wanted a Chevy as our first car. Then I got out into the real world, and sought my own brand to attach my loyalties to. I suppose it took me 10 years to think through the whole brand loyalty thing, where I finally decided it was not a good thing. Lately, that decision has served me well. I had never owned a Mazda, and didn't even like the sound of the name. My research told me it would be a good car, so I bought a shiny new 626. 11 years and 95K miles later, that car never spent a single day in the shop.
All things must pass, and when the end was near for the trusty 626, I started researching for a replacement. I wanted a bit more size, a V6, a long warranty, and most of all, something that would be reliable for 8-10 years. Having been involved in a company turnaround, I recognized Hyundai's recent efforts as genuine. I felt that they were making a gargantuan effort to upgrade their quality, reliability, and image. I surmised they would not allow customer dissatisfaction to ruin their aspirations. During this campaign, Hyundai set their prices and warranty to attract new customers. All things considered, this sounded like a no-lose situation to me.
In 2005, I began been reading good things about the new NF Sonata. By early 2006, I was ready to do the deed. The only thing left was to take a test drive. After driving my old Mazda and ancient Toyota pickup for so long, that V6 Sonata felt like a rocket... a velvet rocket. I was hooked, and walked away for $16,600 (+TT&L) for a nicely equipped V6 car. The Sonata's standard equipment list was unprecedented for that price, and I was elated. I felt like I had stolen something. Hell, I paid $17K for the smaller, poorly equipped 4cyl Mazda 11 years earlier.
When my Sonata gets old, will I buy another one? Maybe, but not because of my old one. Just like my stone chisel-reliable Mazda, I will unceremoniously sell it down the road, and pick the brand offering the best bang for the buck. It may be another Hyundai, or not. Badges don't impress me, and cars change. The 2016 Sonata may be just grand, or it may be an over priced, rickety bucket of bolts, Whichever car best fits my formula will be rewarded with my dollars.
The moment I plunked down my money for the Hyundai, I knew that in a few years I would end up feeling like either an idiot or a genius. The verdict is not in yet, but between you and me, I'm feeling a little smarter every day. After 2 years, I don't have a single regret.
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Bob
Tags: Hyundai Sonata Genesis
