I've driven the old 2.7 which was extremely slow. I've been in the new diesel one as a passenger and the acceleration did feel very effortless and good (it was pre facelift too with less hp) but the rear seat comfort was just too bad for me. But it's great that you're happy with it. I heard Legender is also more comfortable than sigma.
I've unfortunately seen many people with 4x4 eventually ending up with 4x4 issues cause of never switching to 4wd mode that you're supposed to do once in a while. Most buyers like the person you're telling that got stuck don't even know the real capability of the vehicle and only buy it cause of its looks and show off appeal.
Sonata serves the purpose really well of being a more luxurious local sedan. Plus in the local sedan segment only the rs is faster than it.
