After a number of leaks and spy photos, the Korean car manufacturer has officially unveiled the redesigned 2011 Hyundai Sonata four-door sedan in Korea.
We should admit that the new Sonata’s heavily stylish and aggressive lines are a step forward for the model , as well as for the Hyundai brand.
“The Sonata will set a new standard for world class mid-size sedans with state-of-the-art technology, superior build quality and emotional design,” said Euisun Chung, Hyundai’s Vice Chairman at the launching ceremony for the car in Seoul. “The new Sonata will raise Hyundai’s brand values.”
The Sonata features a dramatic “fluidic sculpture” exterior, including a four-door coupe appearance with a sweeping roofline and a compact greenhouse. Inside, the car adopts premium materials and advanced technology.
The interior of the vehicle features a contemporary styling. Hyundai focused mainly on safety when designing the new Sonata. Due to this the body of the vehicle is built from hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel, and a full complement of six airbags featured as standard.
The vehicle will be equipped with a standard Vehicle Dynamic Control with Hill-start Assist Control and Brake Assist System functions. Other highlights include an available three-piece panoramic sunroof and a new Parking Guide System (PGS) that allows the driver to avoid obstacles during parallel parking or when driving in reverse – or so the company claims.
The Sonata is 4,820mm long, 1,835mm wide and 1,470mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,795mm making it a little longer and wider but slightly lower than the outgoing model.
2011 Hyundai Sonata will be powered by a 2.0-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine with 165HP and 200Nm of torque, and an LPG version that makes 144HP. The fuel economy is 7.8 l/100km. Both engines are paired to a new six-speed automatic transmission.
The company plans to sell 450,000 units of Sonata annually worldwide from 2011. The official global debut of the car is scheduled to take place at the Detroit Motor Show in January. It is expected that local pricing or launch details will be revealed at that time.
