The latest Hyundai Sonata has just been released and it looks more stylish than ever. It sports a trapezoidal grille shape that is much like the Genesis and the design makes it look more aggressive than ever.
There are now the LED daytime running lights and also a horizontal character line which replaces wedge-like fold from its predecessor. Hyundai claims that the second generation Sonata is meant to create their identity on a car’s design. This latest Sonata is considered a growth in this department.
Inside the vehicle, Hyundai has removed the tacky centre stack. The buttons are more organized and are now pointing towards the driver. There is also a touchscreen infotainment system attached to the dashboard. Other features like leather seats with heated front seats and Blue Link telematics ensure the best comfort for the driver and the passengers.
Under the hood, the Sonata is built as a front-wheel drive mid-sized sedan. The entry level Sonata runs on the 2.4L engine while the next level offers a 2L turbocharged mill. However, the motors offer a disappointing performance-feel due to the low torque count. Also, it gets really loud and coarse when running at high RPM.
The surprising factor is with the 2L turbocharged engine. It offers a whopping 245hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Even with a smaller engine capacity, it is more powerful than the 2.4L which produces 185hp and 178 lb-ft of torque.
Then again, Hyundai’s CEO for America, Dave Zuchowski, revealed that all the company wanted was 200hp. This explains why there isn’t a V6 engine variant.
All in all, the Sonata is truly an amazing, yet underpowered car. There is still an eco-variant that is pending for a release. The entry level Hyundai Sonata retails at $21,150.
