The Hyundai Sonata facelift has finally made its debut
in South Korea. The refreshed D-segment model, should make its way to other markets following its domestic market
launch.
Buyers there will get four engines to choose from –
a 1.7 litre VGT diesel (141 PS/340 Nm), a 1.6 litre Gamma T-GDI petrol (180
PS/265 Nm), a 2.0 litre Nu petrol (163 PS/196 Nm) and a range-topping 2.0 litre
Theta T-GDI petrol with 245 PS/353 Nm. A seven-speed DCT is paired with engines
that are below 2.0L in capacity, while the 2.0L NA and 2.0 turbo units get a
six-speed auto and eight-speed auto, respectively.
The Sonata adopts a
sharper and more aggressive styling inspired by the new i30. At the front, a
smaller but more angular Cascading Grille makes way for the sleeker headlights,
while the fog lamp enclosures contain the vertical LED DRLs. The 2.0 Turbo model
will get a diamond mesh pattern for the grille, a different DRL setup and
plenty of black accents.
Not a whole lot of changes down the vehicle’s
flanks, aside from the redesigned 17- and 18-inch wheels, which are variant
dependant. At the back, Hyundai introduced new two-piece taillights and a
cleaner-looking boot, which pushes the number plate holder further south. The
reflectors get reshaped to fit this new arrangement too.
Inside, the Sonata retains its familiar dashboard
layout, albeit with updates to various areas like the air-conditioning and
infotainment switchgear. The latter is now linked to a 7-inch colour
touchscreen that now comes as standard on all variants of the Sonata, with the
option of a larger 8-inch unit.
A new three-spoke steering wheel are also featured
here, with the 2.0 Turbo receiving a flat-bottomed version, together with
sportier front seats. Other revisions include a new gear knob, USB charging
port in the centre console, wireless smartphone charging capability (first
time), plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
For safety, the sedan comes with a suite of driver
assistance technologies like Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear
Cross-Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist, Dynamic Bending Lights, and a Lane Keep
Assist function.
Expect U.S. prices to be revealed after the model's
local debut in April.
