Looking like something of a mix between the latest Subaru Legacy and Ford Fusion, Hyundai today unveiled their brand new mid-size sedan in South Korea, to be followed by a more global debut next month at the New York Auto Show.
From a design point of view, this car is definitely a success story. A sharp dresser from head to toe, if well specced this new Sonata will easily shame Japanese rivals, though we don't except an overnight change in hierarchy on the US midsize chart. Besides the usual Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language, the new Genesis flagship probably influence the designers' work here. Its sleek lines and premium look also have an all-new name "Inner Force", as Hyundai hopes perceived quality and high trim will give them strength of presence in the marketplace.
As far as dimensions are concerned, the new Sonata is bigger: 35mm longer and 30mm wider than its predecessor, the benefits being felt by the passengers, which are being promised more room. Externally, the Sonata is 4855mm long, 1865mm wide and 1475mm tall, with a 2805mm wheelbase, which makes it one of the biggest in the class.
The Korean market spec car comes with a 462 liter trunk and is available with a 2.0 CVVL engine making 168 PS and 201 Nm of torque, a 2.4 GDI with 193 PS and 247 Nm plus a 2.0 LPi with 151 PS and 194 Nm. All models are all-wheel drive. Hyundai boasts this car will have superior driving dynamics thanks to MacPherson strut front suspension and a 41% increase in torsional rigidity for the chassis. Park Assist will also be among the features offered, together with heated and ventilated seats, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning System and Blind Spot Detection.
As with any Korean car these days, the features jump out at you. This average mid-size sedan comes with things like bi-xenon headlights (with High Beam Assist) together with LED daytime running lights and taillights. Its leather and wood interior is the smartest Hyundai has made in this segment so far, though everything is intentionally clean and simple, with large square buttons being used.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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