HYUNDAI Sonata 2017-2019 Photos, engines & full specs

Hyundai introduced the seventh generation of the Sonata in 2014 and, three years later, it brought a facelift for it and sharpened its image.

The Korean carmaker tried to make the Sonata a trustworthy alternative for premium-segment vehicles, and it constantly upgraded the lineup so it could match the offer of its competitors. Even though it wasn't an old car by any standards, the 2017 Sonata came with important upgrades over the 2014 model.

With so many body panels changed, it was hard to say that it was a facelift and not a new generation. Apart from the roof, Hyundai changed every other body panel. Its front grille changed from the four-slats type to a 3D cascade-type. There were new LED headlights, fog-lights and DRLs. Its reshaped bumper featured taller outer side pods. For the hood, the designers created new lines that suggested power domes. In the back, the taillights were angular, pointing toward the badge with a clear horizontal line for the reversing lights. The Hyundai badge hid the button for trunk opening.

Inside, the carmaker added a few modifications to match the exterior's new look. Its instrument panel design and the three-spoke steering wheel were slightly enhanced, while the piano key buttons for the audio and HVAC controls gave a premium look for the center stack.

Technically, the Sonata received an updated front suspension with a thicker torsion bar to improve the steering response. At the back, the carmaker made the rear suspension stiffer to provide better handling and manage heavy loads. Last but not least, the 2.0-liter turbocharged version was paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.