 We looked several of the "big boys"-Camry, Accord, Altima.  The Sonata came out on top for us because of its excellent rating on reliability. However, what really sold me was the smooth, comfortable ride.  I do a lot of freeway travel and I found that at at freeway speeds the Sonata is much more quiet and comfortable than any of the other aforementioned cars-even the Camry.  I get all kinds of compliments on the looks of the car too-something I've never gotten before on any other car I've ever ever owned.  I love this car.