Hyundai has unveiled the facelifted 2018 Sonata at
the New York Auto Show. The North American variant has a sportier front
fascia with a larger grille that is flanked by LED-infused headlights.
The refreshened styling continues further back as
customers will find restyled taillights, new alloy wheels, and a rear Hyundai
badge that doubles as a trunk release button. The Sonata Sport and Sonata 2.0T
go one step further as they are distinguished by a mesh grille, unique bumpers,
and gloss black window trim.
The cabin invokes a sense of déjà vu but the company
has added a revised instrument cluster, a new three-spoke steering wheel, and
an updated center stack with new switchgear. Buyers will also find a second row
USB charging port, an upgraded infotainment system, and an improved navigation
system with a bird’s eye view feature.
Safety wise, the 2018 Sonata gains a
standard Blind Spot Detection system as well as Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Certain models can also be equipped with a new Lane Departure Warning system
and an improved Lane Keep Assist function.
The changes are more than skin deep as engineers
installed a stiffer torsion bar and a recalibrated steering system. The company
says these changes will help to improve responsiveness as well as on-center
steering feel. Lastly, Hyundai modified the rear suspension by adding new
bushings and thicker trailing arms to better handle heavy suspension loads.
While the company was coy on performance
specifications, the automaker confirmed the Sonata 2.0T will continue to be
powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that develops 245 hp.
It will now be connected to a new eight-speed automatic transmission
which replaces the previous six-speed unit.
