Coming to a dealership near you sometime this winter, the 2024 model year Sonata for the US market sports Hyundai's trademark Seamless Horizon Lamp in combination with slim headlights. The futuristic-looking sedan further impresses with a curved panel that integrates two displays: one for the digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen for the infotainment system.
When it comes to drivetrain choices, prospective customers have a grand total of three: a naturally-aspirated 2.5, a turbocharged 2.5, and a naturally-aspirated 2.0 for the Sonata Hybrid. Gone is the turbocharged 1.6, which is a bit of a bummer. Said engine cranks out a respectable 180 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 195 pound-feet (265 Nm) from 1,500 through 4,500 rpm in the pre-facelift 2023 Sonata.
Hyundai didn't mention the output figures of the 2.5ers and 2.0er in the 2024 model. To whom it may concern, the 2.5-liter turbo produces 290 ponies and 311 pound-feet (422 Nm) at press time, and it's exclusively paired to a dual-clutch transmission of the wet-clutch variety. The naturally-aspirated variant makes do with 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet (245 Nm) in combination with a torque-converter automatic transmission. As for the Sonata Hybrid, that would be a combined system output of 192 horsepower a paddle-shift automatic transmission with six forward gears.
As ever, the 2.5-liter turbo is reserved for the N Line sporty trim level. The Sonata Hybrid flaunts a system called e-Motion Drive, which – according to Hyundai – enables a smooth and comfortable driving experience in a multitude of scenarios. In simple terms, the electric motor can reduce unwanted vibrations over speed bumps and the vehicle's motion under acceleration.
The Sonata's aero-friendly exterior makeover promises improved fuel efficiency, but alas, the EPA's combined test cycle fuel economy estimates aren't available yet. For future reference, the hybrid returns up to 52 miles per gallon (4.5 liters per 100 kilometers) compared to 32 miles per gallon (7.3 liters per 100 kilometers) for the NA 2.5 and 27 miles per gallon (8.7 liters per 100 kilometers) for the 2.5-liter turbo.
As far as the oily bits are concerned, the big news for 2024 is the addition of HTRAC (Hyundai TRACtion) all-wheel drive. Only available in combination with the naturally-aspirated 2.5, said electro-hydraulic system isn't exactly groundbreaking. The Camry and Altima both offer all-wheel drive, with both rivals promising better handling in dry and more adverse weather.
Gifted with H-lights taillights and a trunk lid with an integrated spoiler, the Sonata can be had in a multitude of exterior paint colors. Aero Matte Silver is exclusive to the N Line. Other colors include Aero Silver Metallic, Cream Beige, Ultimate Red Metallic, Carbon Blue Peral, Transmission Blue Pearl, Portofino Gray, Atlas White, Serenity White Peral, and Onyx Black Pearl.
Hyundai sweetens the deal with standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Pricing information will have to wait, though. The 2023 model year is currently available at $25,450 for the naturally-aspirated 2.5 and $28,450 for the fuel-sipping Sonata Hybrid.
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
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