There used to be a time when Hyundai would do anything to please customers. With each new modelyear they used add tons of new features and, if possible, they’d drop a price as well. Now though they are in a commanding position. They have a huge market all around the globe. Which is probably they decided it’s OK to remove the manual gearbox from the 2013 Sonata’s options list, while increasing the prices a bit.

So the base model is now the Sonata GLS Automatic, which starts at $21,670, or $1,100 more than the last year’s manual model, and $100 more than the 2012 automatic. Then we have the more popular Sonata SE models, which is much better equipped, and comes with two engines. This one costs $150 more than it did last year, starting at $24,120 for the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and $25,670 for the 2.0 turbo.

From there prices start to drop, surprisingly, as the Limited Sonatas are significantly cheaper than their 2012MY models. They start at $26,620 and $28,370 for the 2.4 and 2.0T. But then the panoramic sunroof which used to be standard on this trim level, is now an optional extra. The range-topping 2.0 T limited comes with 18-inch wheels, dual exhausts and paddle shifters.

Let’s hope Hyundai is not going to save a bit of money by cutting corners.