autoevolution
 

2020 Hyundai Sonata Is Sharper, Plusher, More Technologized Than Ever Before

Ah, the Sonata! Now featuring taillights inspired by the Honda Civic, the mid-size sedan is all new for the 2020 model year. The eighth generation – codenamed DN8 – will arrive in the United States in April 2019 at the New York Auto Show.
2020 Hyundai Sonata 20 photos
Photo: Hyundai
2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata2020 Hyundai Sonata
First things first, what sort of firepower does the Sonata pack? The next-generation engine family – called Smartstream Powertrain – borrows the nomenclature from the 1.6 CRDi that Hyundai introduced in Europe on the mid-cycle refresh of the i30. The Sonata, however, relies on the 1.6-liter T-GDI and the 2.5-liter GDI outside of South Korea.

In the automaker’s domestic market, South Korea-spec models will be offered with two versions of the 2.0-liter GDI. One of them develops 158 horsepower while the hybridized option is rated at 144 horsepower. The 1.6 and 2.5, on the other hand, are good for 180 horsepower and 190 horsepower, with torque rated at 194 pound-feet and 180 pound-feet, respectively.

Hyundai hasn’t confirmed if the 2.5 GDI is part of the Theta III family. First-drive reviews of the Sonata, however, suggest the four-cylinder engine is a reworked version of the 2.4 GDI from the Theta II family. Even more curiously, Hyundai hasn’t confirmed the Sonata Hybrid for the U.S. market, at least not for the time being.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but we can all agree the Sonata is more interesting than the preceding generation both inside and out. Improved NVH complements more driving-assist features than ever before, as well as high-tech systems such as the Digital Key.

Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, Safety Exit Assist, Surroudn View Monitor, Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, Remote Smart Parking Assist, there’s a lot to like about the eighth-generation Sonata. A 12.3-inch digital instrment cluster and 10-3-inch touchscreen are two more highlights, complemented by a 12-speaker Bose Premium sound system with Centerpoint and Surround Stage technologies.

With “third-generation vehicle platform,” Hyundai refers to reduced weight, improved fuel efficiency, and stronger durability. The lower center of gravity also promises superior handling in the twisties. “Starting with the new Sonata model, Hyundai will gradually expand the use of the new platform in order to provide joy of driving and comfort to the customers,” declared Fayez Abdul Rahman, vice president of the Architecture Group.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Mircea Panait
Mircea Panait profile photo

After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories