Now in its sixth generation, the new Hyundai Sonata has just been launched in South Africa and takes aim at the premium saloon segment.
The exterior features the fluid design language that can be seen on all of Hyundai’s latest vehicles. Hyundai claims that “this all-new design language combines a liquid light flow with distinctive rigid surfaces to create the impression of eternal dynamic tension, and the uniquely striking designs it produces will ripple down throughout the Hyundai range moving forward as the new core design ethos”.
The new Sonata features a high beltline and low roofline to give the saloon a sleek appearance. The chrome strips and large grille at the front gives the Sonata a bold face. Character lines along the bonnet aim to give a more purposeful stance to this vehicle.
Hyundai attempts to carry on this fluidic design within the cabin with the flow-through centre console and instrument panel. The Korean manufacturer claims that thanks to larger dimensions, the interior is more space and comfort than the model it replaces. Also, thanks to a panoramic sunroof on the executive model, there is an even bigger feeling of space and airiness.
Powering the new Sonata is a 2,4-litre petrol engine that has an output of 131 kW and torque of 228 N.m. Hyundai claims a CO2 figure of 195 g/100 km and a combined fuel consumption of 8,2 litres/100 km.
Mated to this unit is a new six-speed automatic transmission that features H-matic semi-automatic operation. If you wish to take control of the gear changes, using the shift paddles behind the steering wheel can do this. The Sonata has a claimed zero to 100 km/h time of 9,5 seconds and a top speed of 208 km/h.
For improved driving comfort Hyundai has equipped the Sonata with fully-independent suspension at all four corners – the front based on McPherson struts and the rear on a multi-link arrangement.
Standard safety features include ESP, brake assist, hill start assist control, and six airbags for occupant safety. A full house of comfort and convenience features is standard on the Sonata. Some of these features include air-conditioning (automatic on the executive model), an audio system with AUX/iPod/USB connectivity, electric windows and mirrors, rear distance park assist and cruise control for the executive model.
New Sonata comes standard with Hyundai’s 5 year/150 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a 5 year/ 150 000km roadside assistance offering. A service plan of 5 years/90 000 km is standard and service intervals are every 15 000 kms.
