In a typical setting, you often see our brothers and sisters looking for jobs in their final years of university, with the topics of marriage and settling down on their minds. Usually the first car they purchase with money from their first job, accompanies them through the early years of married life. In many cases it also carries their first “baby on board” sticker. This makes the first car purchase a crucial one. If a brother gets the torky “99 Beamer Coup” he has always wanted or the sister buys a two-door Civic with garlands, they will eventually end up ditching them to buy a sedan, a van or a midsize SUV. But the sacrifice doesn't end there - especially for the brother. The fun factor is gone as soon as the Camry marks its territory on the driveway. Does it have to be that way? Not anymore. Should the senior brothers and sisters be the only ones reading this article? No, because the new models out in 2011 will become the 2nd-hand options for all of you first and second year students, come 2013.

After years of struggle, trying to secure some credibility in the auto scene, Hyundai has finally started to produce cars that will give the Japanese a run for their money, in terms of quality, refinement, fuel efficiency, looks and power. This holds true for, at least, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. Up till now, when you think of the Sonata, you may think it’s an inferior copy of a luxury brand. Well a lot has changed in the world and the same holds true for the new Sonata with its sleek design, premium interior and ingenious engineering. The only carry over from previous Hyundai days is the low price and the possibility of zero percent finance.

The new Sonata comes with a 2.4-liter, naturally aspirated, four cylinder engine. Although no V6 option is available, Hyundai did not neglect the V6 lovers. That’s because the new SE has the T word. Yes, the 2.0T Twin scrolled, Turbo charged, 274 hp, four-cylinder engine you only see in premium brands such as Porsche and BMW. The same goes for the pedal shifters on the steering wheel. This large stable comes at no compromise at the gas pump. You get an exceptional 22/34 mpg fuel efficiency of regular unleaded - no premium needed for the turbo.

Hyundai has come a long way and this model definitely deserves a second glance.