The new generation
Hyundai Sonata is based on a versatile platform that supports electrification.
Thus, a hybrid model is coming next spring, as announced by CEO Brian Smith at
the 2019 New York Auto Show.
Those hoping for a
sportier version of the new-gen Sonata will have to wait until 2020, too, as
“not long after that (the Sonata Hybrid’s unveiling), we’ll introduce the next
model in our N Line”, said Smith. “A high-performance turbocharged Sonata, with
over 275 horsepower.”
Does that number
ring a bell? That’s because the brand’s full-blown N Performance models, such
as the i30 N, i30 Fastback N and Veloster N, have a 275 hp, 2.0-liter
turbocharged engine. Even though it’s too early to assume that the Sonata N
Line will adopt the exact same powertrain, the numbers do point to that.
As for the regular
versions of the Sonata, it will launch this year with two engines. The
1.6-liter turbo makes 180 hp and 264 Nm of
torque, and the 2.5-liter produces 191 hp and 245
Nm of torque. Both of them are matched to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Hyundai will start
taking orders for the 2020 Sonata this October. The car will be produced at the
Alabama factory, alongside the Elantra and Santa Fe. The facility will welcome
a fourth model in the near future.
