Hyundai has introduced the sixth generation Sonata in its home market. The 2010 Sonata adopts Hyundais new fluidic sculpture design language, boasts outstanding performance with the segment-leading safety features and fuel efficiency. Hyundai began developing the new Sonata in 2005 under the codename YF. The project took 4 years and 450 billion won (US$ 372 million) to go from concept to customer.
Although it is a completely new vehicle, Hyundai is retaining the Sonata name as the mid-size car has been Korea’s most popular sedan. The new Sonata delivers powerful performance through its 2-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine (Max output 165ps, Max torque of 20.2KG·m). Delivering the highest fuel economy in its segment at 12.8 kilometers per liter, fuel economy is more than 11% improved compared with today’s Sonata. Furthermore, all engines are offered with a new six-speed automatic transmission.
The Sonata is built with hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel while featuring six standard airbags. In addition, safety has been upgraded with standard Vehicle Dynamic Control including Hill-start Assist Control and Brake Assist System functions, an industry first in this segment. The new Sonata comes with a three-piece panoramic sunroof, VDC, Electronic Parking Brake, Amplitude Selective Dampers, High Mounted Stop Lamp, Rear Heated Seats. The Parking Guide System (PGS) allows drivers to avoid obstacles during parallel parking or when driving in reverse.
The Dimension premium sound system offers high-quality sound in three types of modes to satisfy customers’ wide-ranging musical tastes. The audio-visual functions have been upgraded with the 8-inch wide screen and JBL Premium Sound system. In the new Sonata, Hyundai offers a wireless vehicle monitoring service, another industry first. Hyundai plans to sell 60,000 units of the new Sonata in Korea this year. Hyundai expects to sell 450,000 units annually in all markets (Korea & overseas combined) beginning from the year 2011. In addition, Hyundai plans to present the gasoline version in January next year with a 2.4 liter Theta II GDI engine, which will be offered as a standard engine in the U.S. market. The new Sonata’s price will range from 21.3 million Won to 25.95 million Won (US$17,600 to US$21,450).