Roomy and a step above casual, the Sonata's interior is attractive. The seats' cloth upholstery was thick and nice looking with a checked pattern. Some cars have bizarre shapes and prints in the upholstery, which I find distracting and cheap looking, and I applaud Hyundai for being cost effective here without becoming gaudy.

I enjoyed the generous lumbar support in the driver's seat. My mom, who rode with us to Great Grandma's, said the ride felt smooth from her perch in the passenger seat. She also noted that the cabin seemed quiet. I agree with her, but it wasn't the quietest I've ever been in by far.

All of the controls were well placed and easy to figure out. I especially liked the heating and cooling selections with buttons built into the shape of a seated person. Need air to your feet? Press the feet. Want to blow cool air right on your face? Press the head and so on. Simple enough.

In the second row, the kids enjoyed fine accommodations with easy-to-use seat belts and two cupholders located in the fold-down center armrest. They also appreciated the plentiful legroom.