Earlier today, we told you that Kia has just started selling the all-new 2016 K5 sedan in Korea. Since we're essentially talking about the Optima under a different name, it was only natural that some of the K5's engines would become available on the Sonata as well.
Introducing the 2016 Sonata… for the Korean market, not the US. Most of Hyundai's sales are still domestic, so it's only natural that more engine are going to trickle down from one model to the other.
We're told that there are now seven versions of the Sonata. Let's start by focusing on the Sonata Diesel, equipped with the same mill as the i40 facelift. The engine is a 1.7-liter U2 unit and delivers 141 PS, coupled with 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque.
Hyundai has also added a small turbo petrol to the range, the 1.6 T-GDI rated at 180 PS and 264 Nm (194 lb-ft) from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. With these new engines, the Korean company also managed to offer a DCT twin-clutch transmissions for the first time in a Sonata.
Mind you, there are other 2016 Sonata models, including the 2.0 Turbo, 2.0 CVVl, 2.0 LPi, Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid. Out of all these models, the PHEV is probably one of Hyundai's most technologically advanced cars.
This rival for the Ford Fusion Energy and Honda Accord Plug-Is is equipped with a 2-liter four-cylinder GDI gasoline engine that makes 154 horsepower and 140 lb-ft (190 Nm) of torque. There's also an electric motor that can power the car independently and provides 22 miles (35 kilometers) of pure EV driving.
It doesn't have a twin-clutch gearbox though, partly because Hyundai wants to sell it in America, but mostly because it gives a more natural driving feel. Just like with EVs, you need to put your best foot forward to ensure that people are interested and Hyundai is even going after the Prius crown.
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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