Hyundai Sonata to launch soon, what to expect?

It was in April this year when Hyundai introduced the all-new and updated Sonata at the New York International Auto Show. The eight-generation model of this premium sedan was recently spotted in Malaysia and is expected to land by the end or early next year. It is believed to be shipped as a completely built unit from the South Korean automaker’s Thai plant. While the official launch is still a couple of months away (fingers-crossed), interested customers can expect the best of Hyundai’s design, features, and equipment. The all-new Hyundai Sonata unlike any of the brand models showcases the automaker’s Sensuous Sportiness design language, a segment-first tech that could be personalised, and the all-new Smartsteam G2.5 GDI powerplant. As per reports, the production of the new Sonata will begin from September at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama with the sales to commence from October this year.

For those who are not very familiar with the Sonata sedan, it’s one of the most important vehicles in the brand’s lineup. Also, while sedans are a dime-a-dozen these days, and the Sonata was one of the first of its kind introduced by the automaker. As for the Malaysian-spec model, though Hyundai hasn’t disclosed anything yet, it wouldn’t hurt to know what you could expect from it.

Exterior appearances

With so many of these luxurious sedan running around these days, it wouldn’t be a fight to lose one in the crowd. However, it can be said that there aren’t a whole lot of modern-day sedans that look quite like the new Hyundai Sonata. The car is inspired by the Le Fil Rouge four-door coupe concept that was displayed by the Geneva Motor Show 2018. The exterior of the 2020 Sonata displays performance-led properties that refer to the car sportiness that’s undoubtedly more than its predecessor.

There is no doubt that Hyundai has incorporated some modern bits in the 2019 Sonata’s design as well. These include new Digital Pulse Cascading Grille, and stylish combination headlights with new lighting architecture. The side profile gets a sharp line that runs from the wing mirror to the taillight, and black side skirts with lower flanks. The new model is available with several wheel choices - 16-, 17- and even 18-inch alloy units.

The rear gets a sporty rear spoiler along with with a fancy 3D design LED taillight, and long LED strip connecting the brake lights. In terms of its exterior dimensions, the 2019 Sonata measures 4,900 mm X 1,890 mm X 1,445 mm in length, width, and height. Its wheelbase, meanwhile, measures 2,840 mm (35 mm more than its predecessor). With a flat underfloor covering and a range of body enhancements like small fins on the tail lamps the new Sonata coefficient of drag is just 0.27.

Interior - Functional and solid

Those familiar with Hyundai’s latest addition in its lineup might not be surprised with new Sonata’s impressive equipment. The range-topping trim will likely carry first-in-class 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be personalised to suit different driving preferences and modes. On the dashboard is present a fairly large, 10.25-inch HD display that help occupants interact with the AVN functions (audio-video and navigation).

Also, leather seats, an optional panoramic sunroof, keyless access with push-button start, power-folding wing mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, Bose Premium sound system, and a 10.25-inch touch-infotainment touch panel with built-in navigation are onboard. The interior of Sonata can comfortably seat five adults, the head-, shoulder-, and knee- room are sufficient. To top that off, comfortable seats, straightforward climate control switchgear, large greenhouse area, two-tone color scheme, and upgraded NVH insulation are all part of the whole package now.

The cabin of the 2020 Sonata has been designed to be practical, and it excels in terms of its user-friendly ergonomics and functionality. Not to forget, Hyundai sedan’s build quality along with the fit & finish are all striking, and the upcoming car seems thoroughly stable.

Engine and drivetrain

While the South Korean automaker hasn’t confirmed the engine for the Malaysian-spec Sonata, the U.S market gets it with two Smartstream petrol engines. First is a 2.5-litre GDI naturally-aspirated unit producing around 191 hp and 245 Nm of torque. Next is a 1.6-litre four-pot turbo mill churning out a maximum power of 180 hp along with a peak torque of 264 Nm. The 2019 Sonata pairs both the mills with a reworked 8-speed automatic gearbox that sends power to the front wheels.

Safety features

The 2019 Sonata features nine airbags and is tuned with the company’s latest SmartSense advanced driver assistance systems. Included in its safety kit are features like Safe Exit Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Advanced Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and Highway Driving Assist,.