Autopedia
Register
Advertisement

Hyundai-Sonata Hybrid-2020-1024-02
Hyundai Sonata
{{{Marque}}}
aka {{{aka}}}
Production {{{Production}}}
Class {{{Class}}}
Body Style {{{Body Style}}}
Length {{{Length}}}
Width {{{Width}}}
Height {{{Height}}}
Wheelbase {{{Wheelbase}}}
Weight {{{Weight}}}
Transmission {{{Transmission}}}
Engine {{{Engine}}}
Power {{{Power}}}
Similar {{{Similar}}}
Designer {{{Designer}}}


The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size car that has been manufactured by Hyundai since 1985. The first generation Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction. While the nameplate was originally only sold in South Korea, the second generation of 1988 was widely exported.

The Sonata is currently manufactured in the United States for the North American market, China and South Korea for the Asian market, and Russia for other markets. It was named after the musical term, sonata.

See Autopedia's comprehensive Hyundai Sonata Review.

Recent Changes[]

  • The 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show will play host to the world debut of the next generation 2011 Hyundai Sonata. Teaser sketches has since leaked out of Hyundai. The new car was designed under Hyundai design director Oh Suk-Geun. [1]

Styles and Major Options[]

GLS

  • 2.4L Theta II GDI 4-cyl. 198-hp engine
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • 6-speed automatic transmission

SE

  • 2.4L Theta II GDI 4-cyl. 200-hp engine
  • 2.0L Theta II GDI turbocharged 4-cyl. 274-hp engine
  • 6-speed A6LF2 automatic transmission w/ SHIFTRONIC Manual

Limited

  • 2.4L Theta II GDI 4-cyl. 200-hp engine
  • 2.0L Theta II GDI turbocharged 4-cyl. 274-hp engine
  • 6-speed A6LF2 automatic transmission w/ SHIFTRONIC Manual

All Sonata models are equipped with air conditioning, compact disc player, power locks and power windows as standard equipment. There are many aftermarket options such as mud flaps & upgraded wheels available for the Sonata through Hyundai's vast dealer network

Pricing[]

Add more fields as necessary.

MODEL Trims
GLS M/T GLS A/T GLS with Pop. Equip. Pkg GLS with Pop. Equip. Pkg. + Navi SE SE with Navi. & Sunroof Package Limited Limited with Navi. Pkg. Hybrid Base Hybrid Premium
MSRP (w/ Freight)
$19,195 $20,195 $20,945 $22,645 $22,595 $25,195 $25,295 $27,395 $25,795 $30,795
Invoice
$Price1 $Price2 $Price3 $Price4 $Price5 $Price6 $Price7 $Price8 $26,545 $31,545

Australasian Pricing

MODEL Trims
Active M/T Elite A/T Premium A/T
Pricing
$29,490 AUD $34,990 AUD $37,990 AUD

Gas Mileage[]

Actual fuel consumption may vary.

Trim
2.4 litre Theta II GDI Inline-4 M/T (198 hp) 2.4 litre Theta II GDI Inline-4 A/T (198 hp) 2.4 litre Theta II GDI Inline-4 A/T (200 hp) 2.0 litre Theta II GDI Inline-4 A/T (274 hp) 2.4 litre Theta II Inline-4
+ 30kW electric motor (209 hp)
MPG
24/35 22/35 22/35 22/34 35/40

Engine and Transmission[]

452C05B6-0D40-46A5-9FE4-871145FA7F67
B3F42113-C1B2-4F29-8553-72932DF106EC

The Sonata is not the sharpest handler in its class—we like the Accord and the Nissan Altima better—but it's still composed and responsive on the road. The ride is a little more unsettled than we'd like and firmer than most cars in this category, but the Sonata is at least reasonably quick with its turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. During our testing, a Sonata with that powertrain made it to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds—an acceptable result in this class. The shifts from the eight-speed automatic are smooth and well-timed. We'd also like to commend Hyundai for continuing to offer a conventional automatic transmission in its family sedan. Much of the class has gone over to droning (but efficient) continuously variable automatic transmissions (CVTs). During our time with the Sonata hybrid, which pairs a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a motor-generator that combine for 192 horses, we appreciated its fuel-saving efforts but disliked how it didn't smoothly transition between gas and electric power sources. The 290-hp N Line is one of the quickest front-drive cars we've tested, and it provides a satisfying amount of driving verve.

Performance[]

0-60 km/h: 4.4 seconds

0-80 km/h: 6.6 seconds

0-100 km/h: 9.5 seconds

50-80 km/h: 4.2 seconds

60-100 km/h: 5.9 seconds

Stopping distance from 80 km/h: 24.8 metres

Reliability[]

The Sonata includes a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and 5-yr/60,000-mi basic coverage. Consumer Reports gave the new Sonata a rating of well above average. It was one of the most trouble-free cars on CR's list in the 2008 auto issue.


  • RECALL ALERT:On April 16, 2008, Hyundai issued a recall affecting 393,714 MY 2006-2008 Sonatas due to an error with the occupant classification system (OCS) in the right front seat which disables the air bag when it detects the presence of a child restraint system or small child. It may misread a small stature adult as a child causing the air bag not to deployed in an accident. The recall is expected to begin on or about May 26, 2008 with Hyundai dealers removing the right front seat cushion assembly and shipping it to an evaluation and repair facility.[2]
  • RECALL ALERT: On April 20, 2009, Hyundai issued a recall alert affecting 175,765 MY2001-2004 Sonata and MY2001-2004 XG300 and XG350 sedans over an issue with the subframe succumbing to severe corrosion. The recall primarily affects vehicles in the so-called "salt belt" or "snowy" northern states of the U.S.. Owners are urged to visit their local dealer for inspection. Concerned owners ca contact Hyundai's customer assistance center at 1-800-633-5151 for more information. [3]
  • RECALL ALERT: On September 26, 2010, Hyundai announced that it is recalling 139,500 MY 2011 Hyundai Sonata sedans built between December 11, 2009 and September 10, 2010 due to "the steering column intermediate shaft universal joint connections may have been either improperly assembled or insufficiently tightened." The consequence could be "a complete separation or compromised attachment of the connections, such that the driver could experience a loss of, or reduction in, steering capability increasing the risk of a crash." Dealers will begin sending out recall notices in October. They will inspect and re-torque the assembly, and update the steering software too, at no charge. Concerned owners can contact the Hyundai Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-633-5151, or the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153) for more details. [4]

Safety[]

Two 5-Star Safety Ratings by NHTSA

File:06 Sonata Crash Test.jpg

The Sonata receives the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) top 5-Star safety rating for both frontal crash and side impacts. Same in Canada.

Photos[]

Sonata

Sonata Turbo

Colors[]

Colors vary by trim and model year. [5]

Main Competitors[]

Hybrid Models[]

Sonata Hybrid 01small
YF HEV 02 bluesmall

Beginning MY 2011, the Sonata lineup is joined by an Atkinson Cycle hybrid model. Powered by a parallel hybrid drive system comprising of Hyundai's 2.4 litre Theta II Inline-4 and a 30kW (151 lb-ft) electric motor hooked up to a 270V lithium polymer battery, the drivetrain produces a combined output of 209 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm, and 195 lb-ft of torque while delivering 40-mpg on the highway and 35 mpg in the city, with a 37 mpg combined rating from the EPA. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.[6]


Unique Attributes[]

The Sonata has a unique hood contour. While controversial in some design circles, the concave sweeping lines give the illusion of a lower front suspension stance and therefore a more aggressive look.

Interior[]

2011-Hyundai-Sonata-3small

This section should include information on the interior's design, build quality, ergonomics, space (head and legroom, front and rear), features, stowage compartments and overall comfort and livability. Add pictures wherever applicable and keep information in a third-person point of view.

Sonata Hybrid


Resale Values[]

The Sonata is priced competitvely in its category of midsize sedan and has fairly good resale values. This makes this model not only smart purchase initially but for used buyers as well.[7]

<MODEL> Year
Year X Year X-2 Year X-3 Year X-4
Resale Value
$ $ $ $

Criticisms[]

The Sonata has been criticized by some to have a significant amount of suspension noise which detracts from the overall refinement of the newly designed model.

Generations[]

Eighth generation (DN8; 2019)[]

Seventh generation (LF; 2014)[]

Originally internally coded as LFA, the 2015 Sonata was unveiled in South Korea on March 24, 2014. It made its North American debut at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. While the previous model incorporated significant aesthetic changes and sold successfully within the U.S., sales in Korea failed to meet expectations. A more conservative approach was thus taken, to appease the Korean market, resulting in Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. The car inherits many styling features from Hyundai's Hyundai HCD-14 Concept unveiled at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. The car also takes interior and exterior styling based on the 2014 Hyundai Aslan. In Australia and New Zealand, Hyundai have reverted to the use of the Sonata badge, replacing the i45 badge that was used only on the sixth generation Sonata in that market. Some cars had to be recalled in South Korea because of manufacturing defects that affected safety.

North America[]

In the United States, the all-new 2015 Sonata was available in base SE, economy-minded Eco, midlevel Sport, and range-topping Limited trim levels. All 2015 Sonatas (except for the Eco) were powered by a 2.4L gasoline direct injection (GDi) inline-4 (I4) gasoline engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Eco trim was powered by a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 (I4) gasoline engine paired with a seven-speed dual clutch (DCT) automatic transmission. Available on Sport and Limited trims was a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (I4) gasoline engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. All 2015 Sonatas were exclusively available with front wheel drive (FWD). The Sonata Hybrid did not debut until the 2016 model year, as the 2015 Sonata Hybrid was a carryover model from the 2014 model year.

All models of the all-new 2015 Sonata were well-equipped with features such as an A/M-F/M radio with SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth for hands-free calling and wireless stereo audio streaming via A2DP and USB and auxiliary audio inputs, a six-speaker audio system, steering wheel-mounted audio system and Bluetooth phone controls, a digital clock, power windows and door locks, aluminum-alloy wheels, a remote trunk release, a color LCD driver information center in the instrument cluster, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, air conditioning, and a split-folding rear bench seat. Most trim levels also featured a color LCD touchscreen audio system, a rearview backup camera system, a keyless access system with push-button start, carpeted floor mats, the Hyundai Blue Link in-vehicle telematics system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, a power-adjustable front driver's seat, and wood or aluminum interior trim.

Facelift (2017)[]

A facelifted seventh-generation Sonata was unveiled on March 8, 2017. Korean name is 'Sonata New Rise'. The exterior received a radical redesign more in line with the sixth-generation, including new headlights, tail lights, cascading grille, and optional vertical LED lighting. The front of the 2018 Sonata shares some characteristics of the sixth generation Grandeur/Azera. The dashboard was reshaped, with new air vents on the driver's side and a larger touch screen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior also received a new steering wheel, gearshift, and instrument cluster. Other standard features added in the refresh include standard wireless phone charger and USB port for rear passengers. The Hyundai Blue Link telematics system was also upgraded to be compatible with Amazon Echo and Google Home devices.

A mid-trim SEL trim level was also added for 2018, with standard features such as Hyundai Blue Link in-vehicle telematics system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, A/M-F/M HD Radio, and a power-adjustable front driver's bucket seat also became available for 2018, and both the base SE and Eco trims lost those features as standard equipment.

Sonata Plug-in Hybrid[]

As part of the seventh-generation Sonata, Hyundai announced the release of a plug-in hybrid variant scheduled for market launch in the second half of 2015. Technical details of the Sonata PHEV were announced at the 2015 North American International Auto Show. The Sonata PHEV was released in selected markets in the United States in November 2015. It is available only in California and nine other states that share the same zero-emissions vehicle requirements as California.

The Sonata plug-in all-electric range in blended mode is up to 27 mi (43 km) as rated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and a total range of 600 miles (970 km). Since the Sonata PHEV uses some gasoline during the all-electric mode, the EPA considers the actual all-electric range is between 0 to 27 miles (0 to 43 km). The EPA fuel economy rating is 99 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPG-e) (2.4 L/100 km; 119 mpg-imp) in charge-depleting (all-electric) mode and a combined city/highway rating of 40 mpg‑US (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg‑imp) in hybrid mode. In contrast, the conventional 2016 model year Sonata gasoline-electric hybrid has an EPA rated combined fuel economy of 41 miles per US gallon (5.7 L/100 km; 49 mpg‑imp), 39 miles per US gallon (6.0 L/100 km; 47 mpg‑imp) in the city and 43 miles per US gallon (5.5 L/100 km; 52 mpg‑imp) on the highway.

Sixth generation (YF; 2009)[]

Hyundai commenced development of the YF Sonata in 2005, with a development cost of ₩450 billion (US$372 million). In the Australian, New Zealand, Singapore, and Colombian markets, the YF is retailed under the name Hyundai i45, following the alphanumeric i-series nomenclature established by Hyundai in these markets. The vehicle was badged as a "Sonata" in Eastern Europe, just as in North America and South Korea.

Sales of the YF Sonata in South Korea began on 2 September 2009, before the production vehicle's South Korean launch. The US version of the sixth generation Sonata was unveiled at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, with sales beginning in 2010 for the 2011 model year. The Sonata was the second vehicle, after the Tucson, to carry Hyundai's then-radical "Fluidic Sculpture" design language.

For the US market, the sixth generation Sonata boasted a direct-injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This new engine improves fuel economy and produces a maximum of 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) at 6300 rpm and 25.5 kg⋅m (250 N⋅m; 184 lb⋅ft) at 4250 rpm. It is part of the Theta II engine lineup. Furthermore, a timing chain was introduced along with a new six-speed automatic transmission. This Sonata is built with hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel. In South Korea, the YF Sonata is delivered with a 2.0-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine (Max output 165 PS (121 kW; 163 hp), Max torque of 20.2 kg·m). Its fuel economy has improved 11%. A direct-injection 2.4-liter four cylinder engine and a 2.0 turbocharged engine was available.

Exclusive options for the Korean model includes a three-piece panoramic moonroof, electroluminescent instrumentation, fender-mounted turn signals, and a special Premier Beige model. Upgraded audio uses a JBL system, and certain navigation packages come with a telecommunications system with Hyundai's Mozen system.

For the North American model, GLS, SE, and Limited trims were offered. A six-speed manual transmission came standard on the GLS, and a six-speed automatic is available. Differences with the Korean model include differences with the GLS model, which features a body-colored grille and door handles, and different steel wheel covers. Limited models and optional stereos on the GLS and SE now have "Dimension" audio systems, and the Limited trim has an optional Infinity stereo. Limited models have standard front and rear heated seats, the first such offering in this segment. Additional differences include different cupholders, a redesigned straight leather shifter as rather than the gated one on Korean models, and an additional exterior color choice, Indigo Blue Pearl. The 6th Hyundai Sonata was awarded Top Safety Pick from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the United States. The Sonata 2.0T was released in December 2010.

For the 2012 model year, Hyundai's new Blue Link system was offered as standard equipment, and the Limited model included a new standard three-piece panoramic sunroof. SE models had an optional backup camera included with navigation packages, and navigation systems included a new 7-inch display from the previous 6.5-inch.

For 2013, the list of standard features was changed slightly, including heated front seats on SE models, and heated rear seats on Limited models. An automatic transmission also came standard on GLS models, the manual was no longer offered. The GLS Popular Equipment Package now included fog lights and heated front seats. The Limited trims now no longer included the panoramic sunroof, but instead included a standard size sunroof. A panoramic sunroof offered on the Limited Premium Package.

In January 2013 the i45 was discontinued in Australia following slow sales and limited supplies. In turn, the expanded i40 range filled the gap left by the i45. The i45 has also been discontinued in Colombia, and replaced with the smaller i40 sedan, leaving Singapore and New Zealand as the only two markets still selling the vehicle under the i45 name at that time.

Facelift (2012–2014)[]

In 2012, the Korean-produced Sonata received a mild mid-life facelift. Exterior changes include a new grille, slimmer LED mirror indicators, new front fog lights incorporating LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), new alloy wheel designs, as well as redesigned LED taillights. Interior changes include a new color touchscreen display for audio systems (on certain models), as well as redesigned dual-zone automatic climate controls, which now incorporate a small LCD display. A Driver Selectable Steering Mode was standard on all trims. Front parking sensors are now available on certain models, as well as an electronic parking brake. The facelifted model was first released in Korea in 2012, followed by international markets in early 2013. North American produced Sonatas received a facelift in late 2013, for the 2014 model year.

Sonata Hybrid[]

At the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, Hyundai unveiled the Hyundai Blue Drive powertrain for the then next generation Sonata, which uses lithium polymer battery technology. It was reported to be based on Hyundai BLUE-DRIVE concept.

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sales in the U.S. began near the end of February 2011. The Sonata Hybrid drivetrain combines a 2.4-liter engine with six-speed automatic transmission, and a 30 kW electric motor and lightweight lithium polymer batteries to produce a full gasoline-electric hybrid with 37 miles per US gallon (6.4 L/100 km; 44 mpg‑imp) in the city and 40 miles per US gallon (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg‑imp) on the highway. This powertrain is shared with the 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid; and 2013 Sonata Hybrid.

Overview[]

The 2013 Sonata Hybrid has noticeable improvements and has ranked 3rd out of 20 Affordable Midsize Cars (based on U.S. News' analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives as well as their analysis of reliability and safety data). The 2013 hybrid has a long warranty and a spacious, high-quality interior. Its base price ranges from $26,445–$31,324 and weights 3450–3550 pounds. As a hybrid, it emits 0.51 pounds of CO2 per mile and has an EPA fuel economy ratings of 36/40 mpg city/highway.

Cumulative sales of the Sonata Hybrid in the U.S. reached 7,906 units through July 2011, representing 20 percent of Sonata sales at the time, according to Hyundai. The Sonata Hybrid was the number two selling hybrid since June, outsold only by the Prius. Considering cumulative sales in the U.S. market through December 2011, with 19,672 units sold, the Sonata Hybrid and the Kia Optima Hybrid together ranked second in hybrid sales for calendar year 2011, after the Toyota Prius, and surpassed the Honda Insight in September.

Specifications[]

It comes with a 35 kW electric motor (up from 30) and a lithium-polymer battery that is 38 percent larger and more energy dense. The newer electric motor can run up to 62 mph (100 km/h), meaning that it can run on electricity at higher speeds, saving more fuel. It also retains the 2.4-liter, multi-port fuel injected, four-cylinder engine, which uses a modified Atkinson cycle achieved via VVT and a compression ratio of 13:1. Upgraded computer programming smooths the transitions between gas and electric power modes. The hybrid's 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) time decreased from 9.5 to 8.1 seconds (note: the non-hybrid Sonata's time is 7.9).

Standard features include Bluetooth, Satellite radio, dual-zone climate control, auxiliary and USB jacks, a CD Player, six-speaker surround system, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, LED running lights, fog lights, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, push-button start, cruise control, an eight-way power driver seat, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated front seats, and Hyundai's BlueLink emergency communications system. Additional options include touchscreen navigation, a rearview camera, panoramic sunroof, HD radio, Infinity audio system (nine speakers), 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power driver seat with lumbar support, heated rear seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Overall dimensions

Length: 4820 mm (189.76 inches)

Width: 2130 mm (83.86 inches)

Height: 1470 mm (57.87 inches)

Wheelbase: 2795 mm (110.04 inches)

Tyres: 215/55 R17

Turning circle: 10.9 mm

Fourth Generation (2006–2010)[]

2009 Hyundai Sonata

2009 Hyundai Sonata

The U.S. launch of the all-new Sonata kicked off with the historical opening of the first U.S. assembly plant for the Korea-based Hyundai Motor Company in May 2005. The plant is located in Montgomery, Alabama, and produces all V6 and 4-cylinder Sonatas. Hyundai claims the car will launch to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.6 sec, and have a top speed of 147 mph.

The new Sonata is 2 in (50.8 mm) longer and taller and 1 in (25.4 mm) wider than the previous generation. The US EPA now classifies the Sonata as a "large car".


  • The 2007 Sonata will be on sale late in the summer of 2006. Two new trims have been added for 2007, the SE and Limited which offer more standard epuipment then ever before.
  • [edit] Sonata Transform (2008-)

2009 Hyundai Sonata GLS (US)The redesigned vehicle was unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show as a 2009 model year vehicle.The production version was sold as the Hyundai Sonata Transform in Korea, and the model debuted elsewhere as an 'early' 2009 model.

The styling was done primarily at HATCI (Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center, Inc) in Superior Township, MI.

The redesign features revised engines, front fascia and grill, taillights (turn signals became red), headlights, wheel cover designs and an extensively revised IP (Instrument Panel). Hyundai adopted "slush molding,” a production technique that enables a much higher grade of texturing and shaping of the IP surface.

Redesigned gauges feature a blue backlight, and a touch-screen navigation system, optional on the 'Limited' trim level only, includes satellite radio capability.Bluetooth capability is available as an optional unit, separate from the audio or navigation system, and all models include both a USB port along with an auxiliary input jack. An optional USB adaptor cord allows integration of an iPod, and chrome interior door handles are standard on the Limited trim.

The 2.4L Theta II engine was rated 175 bhp (130 kW)@6000 and 168 lb·ft (228 N·m) (168 bhp (125 kW) for PZEV model) and the 3.3L Lambda V6 was rated 249 bhp (186 kW)@6000rpm and 229 lb·ft (310 N·m)@4500rpm. Fuel efficiency is EPA rated at 22/32 for the I4 and 19/29 for the V6.The base model GLS is available with a manual five speed transmission. GLS, SE and Limited models feature a newly available, manually-shiftable 5-speed automatic transmission marketed as "Shiftronic."

In Singapore, a 2.2L CRDi turbo-diesel powered version is used as for taxis.


Third Generation (2002–2005)[]

In 2002 the Sonata was refreshed with new front and rear bumpers, more standard content and more trims to choose from. Pricing remained extremely competitive even with the added standard features. In Europe, the range was reduced to 2.0 GSi and 2.7 V6 models: the 2.4-litre engine, sold in South Korea, North America and Canada, was not available there.

  • The 2009 Shanghai Motor Show played host to the unveiling of Beijing Hyundai Motor Company (BHMC)'s, Hyundai's Chinese joint venture, first independently designed model, the Sonata EF, which is, essentially, the previous generation model given a new front and rear fascia. [8]

Second Generation (1999–2001)[]

A new model arrived in 1998 (1999 for North America), launching the (EF) series. The styling was slightly less aggressive, and modelled more on a Hyundai show car earlier that year. This redesign kept the German influences, but bore an unintentional resemblance to the Ford Taurus as well.

Engines were 1.8 L 134 PS, 2.0 L 149 PS, 2.4 L 149 hp (111 kW) Hyundai Sirius I4s and an impressive 2.5 L 170 hp (127 kW) Hyundai Delta V6. A special 10-year warranty, along with even more upscale touches and a still-low price, boosted volume considerably in the US.

A very Mercedes-Benz E-Class-esque look was added to the old underpinnings for 2000, the new model debuting in the American market for the 2002 model year (Sonata EF2). The 2002 model featured the all-aluminum, DOHC 24V 2.7 L Hyundai Delta V6 powered the Sonata with 173 hp (127 kW). Sales reached 104,000 for 2004.

This Sonata also lent its platform to the first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe.

First Generation/Origins (1989-1998)[]

The Sonata was originally introduced in 1988 as a 1989 model and was solely a Hyundai design, but still featured some Mitsubishi engineering, including its 2.4 L 110 hp (82 kW) Sirius I4 engine as used in American-market models. [1] Other markets received 1.8 L (95 hp) and 2.0 L (131 hp) Sirius engines. A 3.0 L V6 based on the Mitsubishi 6G72 arrived in 1990. The U.S. received the 2.0 L engine for the 1992, replacing the original 2.4 L.

It underwent a minor facelift in 1993 and was released as a 1994 model. It featured a more modern shape, reminiscent of the Honda Accord and especially the Mazda 626. The base engine in most markets was a 2.0 L 126 hp (94 kW) Sirius I4, but there was a 3.0 L, 142 hp Mitsubishi V6 option in some markets. This generation continued after the demise of the Bromont, Quebec plant in 1994. After that, all Sonatas would be built in Korea, until the opening of the Montgomery, Alabama plant in 2005.

A relatively adventurous facelift for the Sonata (Y3) in 1995 saw the exterior style begin to look more upmarket, with Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz styling cues in the headlight area. The rear end also began to look more upmarket—only the central section was retained. The four-cylinder engine was up to 137 hp (102 kW) that year as well.

License-built Ford Cortina & Hyundai Stellar (1967-1988)[]

The Sonata was meant to be a replacement for the short lived Stellar and before the Stellar, Hyundai was building Ford Cortinas under license.

Worldwide[]

In Europe, the Sonata was marketed as a rival for the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, Toyota Camry and Nissan Maxima. European versions were launched in late 1994 as a 1995 model: engines available were 2.0-litre 4-cylinder and 2.5 V6. Base-level models were badged GSi, top-specification models as V6.

In Australia, the Sonata was marketed as a luxury car, as with Europe. It had 2.4-litre 4-cylinder and 3.0 V6 engines. These were available from 1996 onwards.

In China, the Sonata is known as the Hyundai Ling Xiang or Sonata NFC. In 2009, Hyundai Beijing gave the Sonata a facelift in response to dismal sales because of lackluster looks.[9]


Design quirks and oddities[]

In their long-term test review[10] of the 2006 model, Edmunds noted: "Many of our staffers took issue with the odd placement of the audio and A/C controls on the center stack. They are in opposite positions with the stereo placed too high and the air vents too low. We never got used to this arrangement and we hope Hyundai swaps them in its next redesign." An alternative view, however, might conclude that this unique design is an innovation by clearly segregating audio controls from HVAC controls, and that the placement of the air vents doesn't in fact inhibit flow of air.

Awards[]

  • The Sonata got the "Good Design Award" in passenger car category from the JIDPO (Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization).
  • It was also named "Best New Family Car Under $35,000" by The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) at the prestigious "Canadian Car of the Year" awards.
  • 2003 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study 2nd winner (Entry mid-size)
  • The Sonata won the International Design Award in Australia.

See also[]

2823016~2
HYUNDAI

Hyundai Motor Company


Hyundai | Kia


Current: Accent · Elantra · Sonata · Azera / Grandeur · Tucson · Santa Fe · Venue · Santa Cruz · Genesis · Ioniq · Kona · Veloster

Current (Europe): Getz · Matrix · Trajet · Terracan · i10 · i20 · i30 · i40 · Equus · H1 Transporter · i800 · ix20 · ix35 · Solaris

Current (Asia-Pacific): Starex · Creata · Casper · Tucson ix · Verna

Historic: Atos · Amica · XG350 · Pony · Excel · Dynasty · Lantra . Stellar · Marcia · Scoupe · Tiburon

Concept: E-Cubed Concept · Concept Genesis · QarmaQ · HCD-9 Talus Concept · HCD-10 Hellion Concept · Genus Concept · Arnejs Concept · Portico Concept · Neos-III Concept · HCD8 Concept · E3 Concept · CCS Concept · OLV Concept · HCD7 Concept · HCD6 Concept · HCD-V CrossTour Concept · NEOS Concept · HCD-III Concept · HCD-I Concept · HCD-II Concept · Euro-1 Concept · Clix Concept · Coupe Aero Concept · HIC Concept · Sante Fe Mountaineer Concept · Neos-II · HED-1 Concept · Pony Coupe Concept · i-Blue Concept · Elantra Touring ‘Beach Cruiser’ Concept · Genesis Coupe Concept · HED-5 i-MODE Concept · Santa Fe Hybrid Concept · i20 Blue Concept · HED-6 ix-ONIC Concept · BLUE-WILL Concept · Nuvis Concept · ix-Metro Concept · i-Flow Concept · Sonata Hybrid Blue Drive Concept · RB Concept · ix20 Concept

Racing: i20 N Rally1 · i20 N Rally2


Hyundai Driver Information System · Hyundai European Design Centre


Chung Ju-yung and Chung Se-Yung Corporate website independent


External Links[]

News and References

Enthusiast Sites and Discussion Forums

Smallwikipedialogo.png This page uses some content from Wikipedia. The original article was at Hyundai Sonata. The list of authors can be seen in the page history. As with Autopedia, the text of Wikipedia is available under the GNU Free Documentation License.


Advertisement