NEW! YF Sonata Undisguised Again Showing Stunning Side Profile! (08/31/2009)
Editor's Note: "Spy Feed & Info Hub" is a new feature we will implement for posting spy shots of upcoming cars. It will allow us to post images as they surface the web and consequently, update you with the latest spy shots more frequently. Each future car will get its own spy feed, complete with regularly updated spy photos and substantial, detailed information.
Hyundai Motor will officially unveil the long-awaited replacement for the Sonata, code-named "YF", in September of this year. The new Sonata is set to be a revolutionary redesign for the mid-size sedan, incorporating a more modern, sportier design that radically deviates from the current generation's more conventional style. It will also be equipped with the company's latest powertrain technology that will achieve class-leading performance at no compromise of efficiency.
The all new Sonata (YF) sets to shake the mid-size sedan segment with its polarizing new design. The sleek, rakish lines of the exterior evoke a four-door coupe alike the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and Volkswagen CC. Hyundai announced that the new Sonata will be the first car to incorporate the brand's new "Fluidic Sculpture" corporate design theme, thus finally calming the quarrel surrounding the company's lack of a genuine brand identity to this date. The automaker even stated its hopes to replicate the immense impact made by the first-generation Ford Taurus when it debuted in 1985 with its futuristic, timeless styling.
Read more for the full, in-depth article and a gallery of spy shots.
The redesigned Sonata also hopes to lead the mid-size car segment with new, innovative powertrain technology. As gas prices will likely continue escalating into the future, Hyundai will focus more on its 4-cylinder engine line-up and the upcoming Sonata will be no exception. According to the Montgomery Advertiser, the new Sonata will sport an updated 2.4L Theta II 4-cylinder engine with GDI (gasoline direct injection) technology. Mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission, the new engine will achieve a staggering 200 horsepower (up from the current 174). Hyundai hopes to achieve class-leading fuel economy with its new powertrain as well. Alongside the 4-cylinder, Hyundai will also offer an upgraded version of its Lambda V6 for North American markets. The 3.5L Lambda II V6 will reportedly produce over 270 horsepower. The new Sonata will also be available with a range of diesel and LPG engines in some markets. According to an insider, the 2.2L R diesel engine will not initially be available and will bow later.
Hyundai has high hopes for the upcoming Sonata as it will also pack an abundant list of standard features and segment-first options as well. A striking example is the optional panoramic sunroof that is a first for the mid-size car segment in the Korean market. Judging by spyshots, the new Sonata will also be available for the first time with 18-inch alloy wheels. More details on the Sonata's equipment will be released closer to its official launch this fall.
Hyundai plans to launch the Sonata in a plethora of markets around the world, with Korean sales commencing this September. The automaker will release the new sedan for the North American market in February of 2010. The Sonata will also roll out in European showrooms later into 2010 as the "i40". Exclusively for the European market, Hyundai will sell a station wagon variant alongside the sedan. Hyundai is also preparing for the launch of a gas-electric hybrid version of the new Sonata, which will go on sale in various markets including North America next summer.
