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When people find out I write about cars for a living — well, part of it, anyway — I'm asked all kinds of questions. Occasionally, I get a jingoistic inquiry like "What's your favorite American car?" The Hyundai Sonata, of course. (I love the shock value.) After all, it's "Made in the USA." In fact, it's the first model to roll off the product line at the all-new Hyundai manufacturing plant in Montgomery, Alabama.

The all-new 2006 Hyundai Sonata offers two sophisticated powertrains. First is the all-new 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 162 horsepower and 164 lb.-ft. of torque, with features like continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT). This engine is standard on Sonata GL and Sonata GLS four-cylinder models. (The Sonata GL features a five-speed manual transmission version of the standard sedan and Shiftronic automatic transmission which is standard on all V6 models.) On the Sonata GLS V6 and Sonata LX models is an all-new 3.3-liter V6 engine with 235 horsepower and 226 lb.-ft. of torque. Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and a host of other features that make this necessary for supplying plenty of passing power on the highway and some fun doing it.

The new 2006 Sonata is two inches longer, two inches taller, and features a one-inch longer wheelbase than its predecessor. Standard items are side impact airbags on all its models, the addition of Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), active head restraints for rear-end collision impacts, increased cabin with 121.7 cubic feet of interior volume, trunk measuring 16.3 cubic feet, gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers, reductions in vibration, tilt-wheel, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system.

The LX model adds a telescoping function to the standard tilt wheel feature, supplemental steering wheel-mounted audio controls are standard on GLS and LX models. Also standard on the previously mentioned models is an auto-down/auto-up driver's window with pinch protection, heated leather seats, an eight-way power driver's seat, seventeen-inch alloy wheels, fifty-aspect ratio Michelin Pilot tires, automatic temperature control, automatic air quality system, electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink and compass, sliding center armrest, telescoping steering wheel adjustment, chrome-accented exterior door handles, power/tilt sunroof and a CD changer with subwoofer and component amplifier.

In addition, V6 models are also equipped with Solar Control tinted glass and chrome-tipped dual exhausts that hint at the 235 horsepower under the hood.

The Sonata GLS offers all the standard features found on the GL and adds Hyundai's four-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission, sixteen-inch alloy wheels with Michelin MXV tires, driver's seat lumbar support, automatic light control, trip computer, premium door sill plates, floor mats and fog lights. It is also equipped with chrome window belt molding and a selection of interior trim accents.

Another feature I point out to people when they snarl up their nose at my favorite pick is the warranty. It is the best value, too. The all-new 2006 Hyundai Sonata is protected by the Hyundai warranty that includes a five-year/60,000mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance and a seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage.

Of course, the quality of a Hyundai is a frequent concern. But the Hyundai Sonata has been recognized by J.D. Power and Associates for highest quality, the most appealing car (two year's running), five-star U.S. government frontal and side-impact rating, and the overall leader in its class.

We tested the standard V6 GLS , loaded with all the options that the average driver never needs. Our suggestion is to choose one of the V6 models. It's zippy with a capital ZIP. You can't beat the low-torque power and the entire package for $20-22,000. I believe it's the best bargain for the money in America. Put Hyundai on your list to test drive and feel the rave. R&D