Overview & Reviews

After receiving significant upgrades last year, the Sonata receives only minor changes this year. Among these are a battery-saver feature (in the event that any of lights are left on); illuminated window switches; a 12-volt power point in the trunk; and electronic, rather than cable-operated, releases for the trunk lid and fuel door. Additionally, Hyundai announced that it had misstated the horsepower ratings for all of the models in its lineup in previous years, so the Sonata's four-cylinder is now rated at 138 horsepower (down from 149) and its V6 is rated at 170 (down from 181), though the engines themselves are unchanged.

• Excellent warranty, stylish sheet metal, pleasant highway ride, lots of bang for your family-sedan buck.

• Noisy four-cylinder engine, some cheap interior bits.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 191.00

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  2003 Sonata GLS AT - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By TW3 - May 10 - 2:00 am

  Really big bang for the buck! Features and warranty far in excess of Japanese comparatives. I have been a Honda and Mitsubishi motorist for years, but this Hyundai exceeds all expectations. Very pleased with preliminary performance.

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  Great Value - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By Dale Poncy - February 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my 4th Hyundai. I have owned an Elantra GLS, Elantra GT, Santa Fe, and now this Sonata LX. All are 2001 or newer. These are great cars for the money.

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  Sonata great car for the price - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By Steve - December 12 - 3:30 pm

  The car has been great and Hyundai supports the warranty. Had a transmission fail at 92,000, but I am sure it was due to improper servicing at 65K. Hyundai replaced with rebuilt Trans only asking if I changed fluid. Previous post dissing Sonata due to failed timing light and no engine light to warn is owners fault. No car will give a light for this and they all will fail. Suppose to replace at 65,000, mine lasted until 90K and then I had it replaced. Still running strong at 97K. Comfortable and roomy. Back seat tight with carseats, but all cars of this size are. Would buy again and recommend. Hope to get another 50K and then buy a new one.

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  Great Price for More Car Than I Paid For - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By TexAZ - November 14 - 2:00 am

  We own an 03 Sonata GLS, W/ sunroof & spoiler, & standard Sonata package. Honda & Toyota go head to head here. We have seen in Hyundai, the turn both Honda & Toyota made years back, from disposible cars, to quality products. The 03s are a testimony to Hyundais desire to turn the corner, and they have done it! The looks, performance, interior & exterior, they put together a machine to be proud of. Add to that, Consumer Reports "Recommended Seal", plus the warranty, and theres no comparison. People trying to figure out what it is from the looks, makes the whole ownership thing really pleasing. Test drive it, and I know which you will choose!

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  The little Jag - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By lkletter - November 3 - 10:00 am

  I have not had my car for very long, but it is definately a great car for the money. I only keep cars for as long as the warranty, so hopefully with a great 5 year 60000 warranty I will keep this car for a while. A bit disappointed in the gas mileage it gets. Everyone says it looks like a Jaguar. At least it does not cost like one.

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  Very happy - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By Homer Jay - September 21 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Sonata for just over 2 months and while that doesnt give me any long term perspective, what I have seen so far is very good. I have a car here that I actually dont mind driving, be it around town or on road trips. I am very, very happy with the Sonata!

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  _ - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By RandyT - August 15 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Sonata (lost a 2000 base to an accident) and I love it. Since 2000 they have made a number of small but appreciated changes including split folding seats, more space efficient trunk hinges, and a power outlet in the trunk. I’m still in the break in period, but even without revving the engine the car has plenty of power. I would recommend it to my friends.

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  Sonata Soars - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By Waggle63 - August 10 - 10:00 am

  We love this car. I have 2 young boys 8 & 4 and they love to go for a ride in this car. It has good sight lines when driving. It is very comfortable for me (64" 250 lbs.) to drive as well as my wife 52". We will definately look at future products from this company as time comes to replace our other vehicles. It has a great warranty too.

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  Love it - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By kduluth - July 14 - 2:00 am

  After lots of research I finally bought this car yesterday - complete with option package 7 (Moonroof, ABS, Traction Control, HomeLink, cargo net, mud guards, floor mats) and I couldnt be happier. The styling is so attractive and the car is incredibly quiet. The stereo sounds nice though I have yet to really crank it up and see what it can do. The V6 isnt as powerful as some that Ive driven but its acceptable. The under-the-hood components are very easily accessible. There is lots of storage and the backseat armrest is a great addition. I highly recommend this vehicle - with that price and these features, you just cant go wrong.

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  the perfect affordable car - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By PALADIN - July 4 - 10:00 am

  The car was afordable (just over $15,000) and is a LOT of car for the money. Other than changing the oil and filters, no maintainence has been needed or required. I have used the car on several multi-state trips with my wife and two teenage daughters and the trips have been comfortable and fun. A great car.