 My first car ever was the Excel she treated well through out those harsh Chicago winters.  So I moved up to the Elantra she treated well also.  So I said what the heck get the Sonata. I think the 2004 has the best body build of all the Hyundai's.  I love the quick speed pick up of that V6 engine, those horses just win durby evry time.  I have not attemped to use that shift gear, for what? I still get asked what kind of car is that when I am at the car wash. People call it a baby Jag.  The back spoiler I had installed gives it such a arrow dynamic look and feel. When I let my friend drive it one day and she drive up in it, I was like is that me!!!! Yes! I am very happy with my baby Jag 