2008 Hyundai Entourage Performance Review

The 2008 Hyundai Entourage gets good reviews for its performance from reviewers around the Web.

Automotive.com reports that "like its competitors, the Hyundai Entourage 2008 has a V6 engine, in this case a 3.8-liter all-aluminum unit with state-of-the-art continuously variable valve timing...rated at 250 horsepower." Cars.com comments that Hyundai Entourage 2008 "is certainly quick enough, though it won't be setting any records, despite having a large engine," adding this fact "underscores that engine ratings aren't the last word in how a model performs." ConsumerGuide tests show that the "Entourage and Sedona accelerate strongly from a stop--a brisk 8.4 sec 0-60 mph," and Edmunds assures potential buyers, stating, "The 2008 Hyundai's capable V6 accelerates this minivan smartly and provides ample power around town and on the highway."

The transmission draws some mixed reactions. Automotive.com divulges that the "five-speed automatic can be shifted manually by tapping the gear shift lever...useful in mountain driving when the driver could easily shift to a lower gear helping to slow the vehicle." Cars.com notes that it "does its job admirably, and it includes a clutchless-manual feature standard in case you want to pretend you're in something other than a minivan." However, according to ConsumerGuide, "rolling acceleration can seem sluggish because the automatic transmission is sometimes slow to downshift for extra power, [and] the transmission isn't always quick to follow manual gear changes." This impression is shared by Edmunds: "the transmission operates smoothly in most situations, but its response can be a bit lazy at times."

The EPA estimates fuel mileage at 16 mpg in city driving and 23 mpg on the open road.

Most sources are pleased by the Entourage’s handling and road feel. Automotive.com reports the "Entourage has no barge-like tendencies when it comes to handling...a lovely highway cruiser, quiet and stable." This source also notes that it "handles rough surfaces well...but a particularly deep pothole sends a quiver through the body that suggests the structure isn't as solid as it could be." Cars.com finds "ride quality to be comfortable but not too mushy," adding that the vehicle "handles well enough, with notable push, or understeer, when taking corners too fast." According to ConsumerGuide, "the ride is comfortable for a minivan, but is not quite carlike. The suspension is generally composed and smoothes out small bumps well, but it bounces some over larger humps." Edmunds contends that "handling dynamics aren't...eager or precise, as it exhibits a somewhat slow steering response and more understeer and body roll than you'll find among its segment-leading rivals." On the other hand, Kelley Blue Book declares, "Steering is confident and positive, with satisfying feel and feedback to maneuver neatly around town."