It's adequate. I wouldn't go so far as to say it 'sucks'. Sure, it's no competition sound system, but for a factory stereo, it does it's job. I'd say get the car (or ride in one) before you go spending any money on a sound system. More often than not, I find myself turning it off/down so I can listen to the scream of the motor. I'd spend my $$$ to make it go faster and handle better, but that's just me. If it turns out you are intent on upgrading the stereo, I'd say spend your money on a really nice head unit that you can build onto later. $1000 isn't going to get you really far in the car audio world. Hell, that wouldn't cover the wiring cost of some systems. Figure out exactly what you want before you run out and start buying stuff.