There is no denying that the 2006 Hyundai Sonata is a monumental improvement over the previous version, but is it enough to topple the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry? Probably not. Buyers have grown to trust those vehicles over decades of ownership, and their sense of loyalty will not be swayed easily. For many shoppers, purchasing a Hyundai means taking a risk with the unknown, a risk we believe is worth consideration.

So, it will likely be some time before Honda and Toyota executives need to seriously worry about the new Sonata. However, sitting a little uneasy should be those in charge of selling periphery players like the Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Galant, and the Pontiac G6.