Hyundai

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CHICAGO — Hyundai has its work cut out for it.

It has to persuade people to notice its midsize Sonata sedan when its rivals are established favorites: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Chevy Malibu and Ford Fusion.

And all have had new versions since the 2006 model year, including some hybrids.

With much formidable competition, you can easily get lost in the crowd. That's why Hyundai has performed cosmetic surgery on the 2009 Sonata that's in showrooms now.

It gets a new front end and a cabin makeover. And the next generation is due for the 2011 model year. The midsize Sonata is assembled in Montgomery, Ala., along with the Santa Fe SUV.

No complaints about mileage. Hyundai had the third-best fleet mileage rating last year (22.7 mpg) behind only Honda (22.9) and Toyota (22.8).

No gripes about price, either. Hyundai always loads its cars with standard equipment, such as stability control with traction control.

For 2009, Sonata goes upscale. It's offered in SE, GLS and Limited versions with a choice of V-6 for performance or 4-cylinder for mileage. We tested a 4-cylinder Limited.

Sonata owners had asked for a little more punch when leaving the light or pulling out to pass. In other words, a little more fun. So Hyundai tweaked the 2.4-liter 4 and 3.3-liter V-6, to develop 175 and 249 horsepower, respectively.

Both also are quieter than the engines they replace. The 4 groans a bit when pushed hard, but it doesn't sound as if gasping for breath.

Changes in transmission-shift points make Sonata feel that much zippier leaving the light or taking the passing lane.

In addition to packing more punch, Sonata pays more attention to the cabin (good fits and finishes without glaring gaps).

The cabin is roomy and comfortable, and the rear seat backs fold so you can slip packages from the large trunk into the cabin.

Nice touches include covered cubbyholes in the dash to hold CDs or cell phones, rich-looking and eye-friendly blue back- lighting on gauges at night, dark carpeting to conceal ugly shoe marks and a USB port and power plug under the center armrest.

Another power plug has been installed in the console.