Hyundai Sonata Receives Host of Updates

This includes refreshed styling and an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

byCaleb Jacobs|
Hyundai Sonata Receives Host of Updates
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Admittedly, this Hyundai Sonata seems to be a significant improvement. Not only does it look better, the car's dynamics are also promising as the eight-speed transmission pairs up nicely to make for optimal fuel economy. Unveiled today in Korea, it stays mostly true to the renderings we'd seen previously, making journos and consumers equally satisfied.

Styling is all a bit more chiseled for the next generation. In an era where many cars are getting "softer", Hyundai has turned away from the fad in efforts of developing the Sonata from an econo-box to a respectable choice for buyers. A bold front fascia displays itself with a redesigned hood and headlight design, complimenting the car's "cascading" grill. The same trend continues from front to rear, promising an equally handsome profile.

The Sonata's interior receives a going-over as well. Nifty features include wireless smartphone charging and an 8-inch display with navigation, showing Hyundai's more adult side. The brand's latest Blue Link infotainment system is a nice bit of kit, allowing for easy accessibility to the Sonata's features. Driver aids include an active safety suite that provide drivers with blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive headlights. All of these culminate to show that the automaker is beginning to shy away from its budget roots, giving us quality products at a still considerably low price.

Powertrain options were also released for the global market. Outside of the U.S., the Sonata will be treated to a 1.7L turbo diesel option that we aren't likely to see here. A 2.0L I4 will be the standard lump with a 1.6L turbo being optional as an alternative eco-conscious choice. There will be a two-liter turbo that makes 240 HP as well, promising plenty of giddy-up to match exclusively with the eight speed automatic.

We don't know when we'll get the newest Sonata in America, but Hyundai plans to release it abroad sometime around the middle of the year. 

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