Hyundai introduced the fourth generation Sonata in India and termed it as the Sonata Gold which was then replaced by the fifth generation of the vehicle titled Sonata Embera. Then, the Korean automaker launched the current i.e. sixth generation Sonata in 2012. The current Sonata follows Hyundai’s ‘fluidic’ styling philosophy and truly looks like the elder sibling of the Verna and Elantra. Hyundai has also loaded the Sonata with all possible features and gizmos that you would expect in a car from this segment.
Hyundai unveiled the seventh generation Sonata recently and the vehicle is surely improvised over the sixth generation. Now, a variant of the new Sonata has been spotted in Korea and it is claimed that this variant is powered by a CRDI diesel engine. If that is true then it is great news since an oil-burner can really change the vehicle’s fortunes. Even though the Sonata is quite a capable vehicle providing a good amount of comfort, it just doesn’t sell like its rival, the Skoda Superb. The Superb too comes with a host of goodies but most importantly it gets a diesel engine as well as the amazing DSG gearbox.
Currently, the Hyundai Sonata is powered by a 2.4-litre petrol engine that produces 201 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque. The engine can be mated to either a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed AT. Details and specifications of the diesel engine are not yet known but Hyundai might showcase the new Sonata at the 2014 Busan International Motor Show on 29th May 2014. Hyundai hasn’t released an official statement on whether the seventh generation Sonata will be launched in India or not, though we feel that if the company does introduce the new model with the oil-burner then it will be a wonderful choice for those who are in the market looking for a premium sedan.
Hyundai also has better after-sales service when compared to rival Skoda and this fact will also help Hyundai generate more sales provided the diesel variant is specced and priced properly by them. Hyundai also launched the new Santa Fe in the Indian market making it clear that they are focussing not only on lower segments but also the premium luxury segment. The sixth generation Hyundai Sonata is priced onwards of Rs. 19 lakhs (ex-showroom, Mumbai).
Pictures Source – LF Sonata With Love