Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai Sonata
2018 Sonata
Overview
Manufacturer	Hyundai
Production	1985–present
Body and chassis
Class	Mid-size car
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	FR layout (1985–1987) FF layout (1988–present)
Chronology
Predecessor	Hyundai Stellar

The Hyundai Sonata (Korean: 현대 쏘나타) is a mid-size car produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 1985. The first generation Sonata was introduced in 1985, which was a facelifted Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reactions. While the original was only sold in South Korea, with limited exports to Canada and New Zealand, the second generation of 1988 was widely exported.

First generation (Y; 1985–1987)

First generation (Y)
Overview
Also called	Hyundai Stellar II (Canada)
Production	1985–1987
Assembly	Ulsan, Korea
Body and chassis
Related	Hyundai Stellar
Powertrain
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,579 mm (101.5 in)
Length	4,578 mm (180.2 in)
Width	1,755 mm (69.1 in)
Height	1,380 mm (54.3 in)

See also: Hyundai Stellar

The first Sonata was introduced to compete with the Daewoo Royale series and was built using main components from the Stellar. It included cruise control, power seats, head lamp washers, power brakes, electric operated adjustable side mirrors and chrome bumper trims. The Sonata was available with two trim options in Korea: Luxury and Super (the latter only available with a 2.0-liter engine). In the domestic market Hyundai sold the Sonata as an executive car using catchphrases like "Luxury car for VIP", however as the Sonata was based on the Stellar without any redesigning it was seen by the public as no different than a luxury version of the Stellar. In 1987 Hyundai added two tone color schemes and a trip computer option but sales soon went down and the car was discontinued in December of that year. The Sonata was sold only in a few markets, such as in Korea and for export markets such as Canada and New Zealand, as the Stellar II. The vehicle was unveiled in South Korea on 4 November 1985. It did not meet the United States emission standards and thus was not available in that market.

Engine choices included 1.6-liter Mitsubishi Saturn (only available outside the domestic market), 1.8- and 2.0-liter Mitsubishi Sirius inline-fours. The latter unit also found its way into the 1987 and later Stellar, and in MPI form the 1986 Hyundai Grandeur. The body was a largely unchanged Hyundai Stellar.

It was sold in New Zealand (right hand drive) with the 1.6-liter Mitsubishi engine with the five-speed manual gearbox; an automatic transmission was an optional extra. The original importer was a unit of the Auckland-based Giltrap Motor Group.

There was a version of the Stellar known as the Stellar 88 launched to celebrate the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. After Stellar 88, Hyundai discontinued the Stellar series and changed it to the Sonata series.

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  1987 Hyundai Sonata (South Korea)

Second generation (Y2; 1988–1993)

Second generation (Y2)
Overview
Production	1988–1993
Assembly	Bromont, Quebec, Canada Ulsan, Korea
Designer	Giorgetto Giugiaro (1986)
Body and chassis
Related	Mitsubishi Galant Σ
Powertrain
Engine	1.8 SOHC Mitsubishi Sirius engine 105PS 2.0 Mitsubishi Sirius engine 110PS 2.0 L 4G63 I4 (131 hp) 2.4 L 4G64 I4 (110 hp) 3.0 L 6G72 V6 (146 hp)
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,650 mm (104.3 in)
Length	4,680 mm (184.3 in)
Width	1,750 mm (68.9 in)
Height	1,410 mm (55.5 in)

The Y2 Sonata was part of Hyundai's expansion in North America after the success of the Excel. It was introduced in South Korea on 1 June 1988. It was then introduced in Canada in September 1988 as a 1989 model, on 14 November 1988 in the United States as a 1989 model, and in March 1989 in Australia. The exterior was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign. The vehicle received a mid-term facelift in 1991. It replaced the Stellar as Hyundai's large family car. Sonatas were built in Ulsan, Korea, and in Bromont, Quebec.

The Sonata was launched in Europe in June 1989, as the third model to be sold there following the Hyundai brand's European launch in 1982. It was aimed at buyers of cars including the Ford Granada Scorpio, but was priced to compete with smaller cars like the Ford Sierra.

The Sonata was designed by Hyundai and featured Mitsubishi's engineering, including the platform from the Galant Σ and its 2.4-liter, the mitsubishi designed engines were made under license in Korea, and had Hyundai codes stamped on them, but otherwise were almost identical to motors used by Mitsubishi 110 hp (82 kW) Sirius inline-four engine as used in American-market models. A 3.0-liter V6 engine based on the Mitsubishi 6G72 arrived in 1990. Other markets received 1.8- and 2.0-liter engines carried over from the first generation, but equipped with Hyundai's own MPI, replacing their carbureted counterparts used in the Y1 Sonata. The U.S. model received the DOHC 2.0-liter G4CP engine for the 1992 model year, replacing the original 2.4-liter SOHC G4CS engine.

Trim levels in the US were offered with:

• GL ("89-"91 2.4 single overhead cam engine [engine code G4CS] "92-"93 2.0 DOHC engine [engine code G4CP])
• GLS (3.0 engine)

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  Hyundai Sonata (Canada; pre-facelift)

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  Hyundai Sonata (Spain; facelift)

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  Hyundai Sonata (Spain; facelift)

Third generation (Y3; 1993–1998)

Third generation (Y3)
Overview
Also called	Hyundai Sonica (Italy) Hyundai Marcia (South Korea)
Production	1993–1998
Assembly	Ulsan, South Korea Gaborone, Botswana (TMBC)
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door sedan
Platform	Hyundai-Kia Y3
Powertrain
Engine	1.8 L I4 2.0 L 4G63 I4 3.0 L 6G72 V6
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Length	4,700 mm (185.0 in)
Width	1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height	1,405 mm (55.3 in)

The Y3 Sonata debuted in 1993. The base engine in most markets was a 2.0-liter 77 kW (103 hp) Sirius I4, but there was a 3.0-liter, 107 kW (143 hp) Mitsubishi V6 option in some markets. This generation continued after the demise of the Bromont, Quebec plant in September 1993. After that, all Sonatas would be built in Korea, until the opening of the Beijing Hyundai plant in December 2002.

The third generation Y3 model was also produced as the Hyundai Marcia between 1995 and 1998, selling alongside the Sonata in South Korea only. The Marcia differed from the Sonata with its restyled front and rear fascias.

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  1996 Hyundai Marcia (South Korea)

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  1996 Hyundai Marcia (South Korea)

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  1994-1996 Hyundai Sonata (Australia)

Facelift (1996–1998)

A facelift for the Y3 in 1996 saw modifications to the front and rear. The four-cylinder engine output was also increased to 92 kW (123 hp) for that year as well. The Y3 facelift was the last Sonata produced in Ulsan.

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  Facelift Hyundai Sonata (Y3; US)

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  Facelift Hyundai Sonata (Y3;Chile)

Fourth generation (EF; 1998–2005)

Fourth generation (EF)
Overview
Also called	Hyundai Sonica (Italy) Hyundai Sonata Viv (South Africa) Hyundai Sonata Prima (Egypt)
Production	1998–2005 (South Korea) 2005–2012 (Russia) 2002–present (China)
Assembly	Asan, Korea Gaborone, Botswana (TMBC) Cairo, Egypt (AAV) Beijing, China (facelift) Taganrog, Russia (TagAZ; facelift)
Body and chassis
Platform	Hyundai-Kia Y4
Related	Kia Optima
Powertrain
Engine	1.8 L G4GB I4 (China) 2.0 L G4GC I4 (China) 2.4 L Sirius I4 2.5 L Delta V6 (pre-facelift) 2.7 L Delta V6 (facelift)
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Length	Pre-facelift: 4,710 mm (185.4 in) Facelift: 4,745 mm (186.8 in)
Width	Pre-facelift: 1,815 mm (71.5 in) Facelift: 1,820 mm (71.7 in)
Height	Pre-facelift: 1,410 mm (55.5 in) Facelift: 1,420 mm (55.9 in)

Pre-facelift Hyundai Sonata (EF)

A new model arrived in 1998, launching the (EF) series.

Engines were the 2.0-liter with 136 hp (101 kW), 2.4-liter at 138 hp (103 kW) Hyundai Sirius and a 2.5-liter with 168 hp (125 kW)—the G6BW model of Hyundai Delta V6.

The Kia Optima (called the Magentis outside of the United States) was based on the same automobile platform of this generation of Sonata and shared the same doors and some other panels.

This Sonata also shared a platform with the first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe, a compact crossover SUV.

Facelift (2001–2004)

2001 facelift (EF-B)

Hyundai Moinca - facelifted 4th-gen Sonata (only in China)

Hyundai issued a facelift for the EF series in 2001 for the 2002 model year, known as the EF-B series. New front and rear styling featured, the original EF rear vehicle registration plate alcove repositioned from the bottom bumper to the trunk lid.

This facelift model featured the all-aluminum, the G6BA series 2.7-liter Delta V6 with 172 hp (128 kW). It also featured the same Sirius II inline-four rated at 149 hp (111 kW) and 157 lb⋅ft (213 N⋅m) of torque.

This generation of Sonata is still being built (since 2002) and sold in China from December 2002, by Beijing Hyundai. A facelifted Sonata was produced by that company in August 2009 called the Moinca. This model is only available in the Chinese market and comes with a 1.8 or 2.0 litre engine with transmission choices consisting of a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

The Sonata was produced by TagAZ in Russia until 2012.

Fifth generation (NF; 2005–2009)

Fifth generation (NF)
Overview
Also called	Beijing-Hyundai NF Yu Xiang Beijing-Hyundai Sonata Yu Xiang Beijing-Hyundai Sonata Ling Xiang Hyundai NF (Russia) Hyundai NF Sonata (Facelift) (Russia) Hyundai Sonata CVVT-i (Malaysia) Hyundai Sonata Transform (Facelift) Hyundai Sonata Embera (India) Hyundai Sonica (Italy)
Production	2004–2009 2005–2010 (North America) 2008–2010 (China)
Model years	2005–2009 2006–2010 (North America) 2009–2011 (China)
Assembly	Asan, Korea Montgomery, Alabama, United States Chennai, India Beijing, China İzmit, Turkey (Hyundai Assan) Cairo, Egypt (Ghabbour Group) Thonburi, Thailand (TAAP) Al Jazirah state, Sudan (Giad)
Designer	Choi Jong Min (2002)
Body and chassis
Related	Kia Optima
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L Theta I4 2.4 L Theta I4 3.3 L Lambda V6 2.0 L CRDi I4
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed manual (2.0 CRDI) 5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,730 mm (107.5 in)
Length	4,800 mm (189.0 in) Sonata Ling Xiang:4,815 mm (189.6 in)
Width	1,830 mm (72.0 in)
Height	1,475 mm (58.1 in)

Interior

The NF Sonata was launched in August 2004 in Korea, based on a new platform created from the project NF. The company's first all-aluminum I4 engine, dubbed Theta, debuted in the new Sonata. Engine choices at launch were a 2.4-liter I4 rated 164 hp (122 kW) at 5800 rpm and a 3.3-liter V6 rated 237 hp (177 kW) V6. In Korea, the 2.4-liter option was sold as the F24S (24 = 2.4L, S = Special). The 2.0-liter gasoline version was only sold in Korea and proved more popular there due to added gas, tax and insurance savings. Diesel versions are available in Europe, New Zealand and Singapore, where they are a popular replacement for the Toyota Comfort taxi cab.

The U.S. May 2005 launch of the new Sonata coincided with the production commencement at the company's first U.S. assembly plant, in Montgomery, Alabama.

Classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a mid-size car, the fourth generation was 2 in (51 mm) longer and taller and 1 in (25 mm) wider than the previous generation. Standard features in U.S. models included anti-lock braking system/electronic stability control/traction control system as well as six airbags (driver/front passenger front and side, and side curtain).

Safety

Europe: 2006 year models received the following European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) ratings:

• Adult Occupant: , score 27
• Child Occupant: , score 37
• Pedestrian: , score 12

In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests the Sonata received a "Good" overall in the frontal impact crash test, an "Acceptable" overall score in the side impact crash test, and a "Good" rating for rear crash protection. In the roof strength evaluation 09 and 10 models were rated "Marginal".

2006 Hyundai Sonata tested by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Frontal Rating (Driver):
• Frontal Rating (Passenger):
• Side Rating (Driver):
• Side Rating (Passenger):
• Rollover:

Facelift (2008–2010)

The redesigned vehicle was unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show as a 2009 model year vehicle. The production version was sold as the Hyundai Sonata Transform in Korea, and the model debuted elsewhere as an 'early' 2009 model.

The styling was done primarily at Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) in Superior Township, Michigan in 2006.

The redesign features revised engines, front fascia and chrome 3 bar grille, taillights (turn signals became red), jewel-projector headlights, new 10-spoke alloy wheel design for the Limited models (as opposed to sharing the 5-spoke design from the SE model), and an extensively revised IP (Instrument Panel). Hyundai adopted "slush molding", a production technique that enables a much higher grade of texturing and shaping of the IP surface.

Redesigned gauges feature a blue backlight, and a touch-screen navigation system, optional on the Limited trim level only, includes satellite radio capability. Bluetooth capability is available as an optional unit, separate from the audio or navigation system, and all models include both a USB port along with an auxiliary input jack. An optional USB adaptor cord allows integration of an iPod, and chrome interior door handles are standard on the Limited trim.

The 2.4-liter G4KC Theta engine was rated 162 hp (121 kW) at 6000 rpm and 164 lb⋅ft (222 N⋅m) (164 hp (122 kW) for PZEV model), 2.0-liter G4KA Theta engine was rated 143 hp (107 kW) at 6000 rpm and 140 lb⋅ft (190 N⋅m) at 4250 rpm and the 3.3-liter Lambda V6 was rated 235 hp (175 kW) at 6000 rpm and 229 lb⋅ft (310 N⋅m) at 4500 rpm.

The base model GLS is available with a manual five-speed transmission. GLS, SE and Limited models feature a newly available, manually shiftable five-speed automatic transmission marketed as "Shiftronic."

There are minimal changes for the 2010 model, which includes the optional navigation system on the SE as opposed to being a Limited-exclusive option, and the V6 engine is no longer offered on the GLS model.

Pre-facelift styling

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  Front

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  Rear

Post-facelift styling

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  Front

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  Rear

Sonata Ling Xiang

2009–2011 Hyundai Sonata Ling Xiang (China)

Beijing Hyundai launched a redesigned Sonata called the Ling Xiang, also known as NFC Sonata, for the Chinese market. Production commenced in December 2008 for the 2009 model year. This variant has an updated exterior and revised rear seating. Following Hyundai's success with their Hyundai Elantra Yue Dong, Ling Xiang was created specifically to target the Chinese market. Hyundai first introduced this car to the market at The 6th China Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition in 2008.

Engine and transmission choices include the 2.0 litre and 2.4 litre Theta engine paired to 3 gear separate gearboxes, a 5 speed manual, 5 speed automatic and 4 speed automatic. Pricing ranges from 155,800 to 228,800 yuan (23,955 to 35,173 USD). Trim levels consisted of the 2.0GL Manual and Automatic, 2.0 GLS Manual and Automatic, 2.0 DLX AT, 2.0 Top, 2.4 GLS, 2.4DLX AT and 2.4 Top.

Sixth generation (YF; 2009–2014)

Sixth generation (YF)
Overview
Also called	Hyundai i45
Production	2009–2014 2010–2015 (hybrid)
Model years	2010–2014
Assembly	South Korea: Asan United States: Montgomery, Alabama China: Beijing Indonesia Malaysia
Designer	Andre Hudson (2007)
Body and chassis
Related	Kia Optima/Magentis/K5 Hyundai i40
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L Nu CVVL I4 2.0 L Theta 163 hp (122 kW), I4 2.0 L Theta Turbo GDi, 274 hp (204 kW), I4 2.4 L Theta II 176 hp (131 kW), I4 2.4 L Theta GDi, 200 hp (150 kW), I4
Transmission	6-speed automatic 6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,795 mm (110.0 in)
Length	4,820 mm (189.8 in)
Width	1,835 mm (72.2 in)
Height	1,470 mm (57.9 in)
Curb weight	1,451–1,504 kg (3,199–3,316 lb) (2.4L) 1,514–1,566 kg (3,338–3,452 lb) (2.0L Turbo)

Hyundai commenced development of the YF Sonata in 2005, with a development cost of ₩450 billion (US$372 million). In the Australian, New Zealand, Singaporean, and Colombian markets, the YF is retailed under the name Hyundai i45, following the alphanumeric i-series nomenclature established by Hyundai in these markets. The vehicle was badged as a "Sonata" in Eastern Europe, just as in North America and South Korea.

Sales of the YF Sonata in South Korea began on 2 September 2009, before the production vehicle's South Korean launch. The US version of the sixth generation Sonata was unveiled at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, with sales beginning in 2010 for model year 2011. The Sonata was the second vehicle, after the Tucson, to carry Hyundai's then-radical "Fluidic Sculpture" design language.

Interior (pre-facelift)

For the US market, the sixth generation Sonata boasted a direct-injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This new engine improves fuel economy and produces a maximum of 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) at 6300 rpm and 25.5 kg⋅m (250 N⋅m; 184 lb⋅ft) at 4250 rpm. It is part of the Theta II engine lineup. Furthermore, a timing chain was introduced along with a new six-speed automatic transmission. This Sonata is built with hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel. In South Korea, the YF Sonata is delivered with a 2.0-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine (Max output 165 PS (121 kW; 163 hp), Max torque of 20.2㎏·m). Its fuel economy has improved 11%. A direct-injection 2.4-liter four cylinder engine and a 2.0 turbocharged engine was available.

Exclusive options for the Korean model includes a three-piece panoramic moonroof, electroluminescent instrumentation, fender-mounted turn signals, and a special Premier Beige model. Upgraded audio uses a JBL system, and certain navigation packages come with a telecommunications system with Hyundai's Mozen system.

For the North American model, GLS, SE, and Limited trims were offered. A six-speed manual transmission came standard on the GLS, and a six-speed automatic is available. Differences with the Korean model include differences with the GLS model, which features a body-colored grille and door handles, and different steel wheel covers. Limited models and optional stereos on the GLS and SE now have "Dimension" audio systems, and the Limited trim has an optional Infinity stereo. Limited models have standard front and rear heated seats, the first such offering in this segment. Additional differences include different cupholders, a redesigned straight leather shifter as rather than the gated one on Korean models, and an additional exterior color choice, Indigo Blue Pearl. The 6th Hyundai Sonata was awarded Top Safety Pick from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the United States. The Sonata 2.0T was released in December 2010.

For the 2012 model year, Hyundai's new Blue Link system was offered as standard equipment, and the Limited model included a new standard three-piece panoramic sunroof. SE models had an optional backup camera included with navigation packages, and navigation systems included a new 7-inch display from the previous 6.5-inch.

For 2013, the list of standard features was changed slightly, including heated front seats on SE models, and heated rear seats on Limited models. An automatic transmission also came standard on GLS models, the manual was no longer offered. The GLS Popular Equipment Package now included fog lights and heated front seats. The Limited trims now no longer included the panoramic sunroof, but instead included a standard size sunroof. A panoramic sunroof offered on the Limited Premium Package.

In January 2013 the i45 was discontinued in Australia following slow sales and limited supplies. In turn, the expanded i40 range filled the gap left by the i45. The i45 has also been discontinued in Colombia, and replaced with the smaller i40 sedan, leaving Singapore and New Zealand as the only two markets still selling the vehicle under the i45 name at that time.

Facelift (2012–2014)

In 2012, the Korean-produced Sonata received a mild mid-life facelift. Exterior changes include a new grille, slimmer LED mirror indicators, new front fog lights incorporating LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), new alloy wheel designs, as well as redesigned LED taillights. Interior changes include a new color touchscreen display for audio systems (on certain models), as well as redesigned dual-zone automatic climate controls, which now incorporate a small LCD display. A Driver Selectable Steering Mode was standard on all trims. Front parking sensors are now available on certain models, as well as an electronic parking brake. The facelifted model was first released in Korea in 2012, followed by international markets in early 2013. North American produced Sonatas received a facelift in late 2013, for the 2014 model year.

Gallery

Pre-facelift styling

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  Front (GLS)

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  Rear

Post-facelift styling

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  Front

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  Rear

Safety

Top Safety Pick Award in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests

• Frontal impact crash test: "Good"
• Side impact crash test: "Good"
• Rear crash protection: "Good"
• Roof strength evaluation: "Good"

Later release (manufactured on or after 2 July 2010) version of Model Year 2011: by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under 2010 new test rules
The 2011 Sonata is one of six vehicles rated Five Star under new rules as of November 2010.

• Overall Frontal Rating:
• Frontal Rating (Driver):
• Frontal Rating (Passenger):
• Side Overall Rating (Front):
• Side Overall Rating (Rear):
• Side Barrier Rating (Front):
• Side Barrier Rating (Rear):
• Side Pole Rating (Driver):
• Rollover:

Early release (manufactured before 2 July 2010) version of model year 2011:

• Overall Frontal Rating:
• Frontal Rating (Driver):
• Frontal Rating (Passenger):
• Side Overall Rating (Front):
• Side Overall Rating (Rear):
• Side Barrier Rating (Front):
• Side Barrier Rating (Rear):
• Side Pole Rating (Driver):
• Rollover:

Australasian NCAP – The Hyundai Sonata scored the highest possible rating of 5 stars"ANCAP Safety ratings: 2011 Hyundai Sonata". ANCAP. 

Korean NCAP – The Hyundai Sonata scored the highest possible ratings across the frontal, offset and side crash tests "KNCAP Safety ratings: 2011 Hyundai Sonata". KNCAP. 

China NCAP – The Hyundai Sonata scored the highest possible rating of 6 stars"CNCAP Safety ratings: 2011 Hyundai Sonata". CNCAP. 

Sonata Hybrid

2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (US)

Instrument panel of the Sonata Hybrid

At the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, Hyundai unveiled the Hyundai Blue Drive powertrain for the then next generation Sonata, which uses lithium polymer battery technology. It was reported to be based on Hyundai BLUE-DRIVE concept.

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sales in the U.S. began near the end of February 2011. The Sonata Hybrid drivetrain combines a 2.4-liter engine with six-speed automatic transmission, and a 30 kW electric motor and lightweight lithium polymer batteries to produce a full gasoline-electric hybrid with 37 miles per US gallon (6.4 L/100 km; 44 mpg_‑imp) in the city and 40 miles per US gallon (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg_‑imp) on the highway. This powertrain is shared with the 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid.

2013 Sonata Hybrid

Overview

The 2013 Sonata Hybrid has noticeable improvements and has ranked 3rd out of 20 Affordable Midsize Cars (based on U.S. News' analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives as well as their analysis of reliability and safety data). The 2013 hybrid has a long warranty and a spacious, high-quality interior. Its base price ranges from $26,445–$31,324 and weights 3450–3550 pounds. As a hybrid, it emits 0.51 pounds of CO2 per mile and has an EPA fuel economy ratings of 36/40 mpg city/highway.

Cumulative sales of the Sonata Hybrid in the U.S. reached 7,906 units through July 2011, representing 20 percent of Sonata sales at the time, according to Hyundai. The Sonata Hybrid was the number two selling hybrid since June, outsold only by the Prius. Considering cumulative sales in the U.S. market through December 2011, with 19,672 units sold, the Sonata Hybrid and the Kia Optima Hybrid together ranked second in hybrid sales for calendar year 2011, after the Toyota Prius, and surpassed the Honda Insight in September.

Specs

It comes with a 35 kW electric motor (up from 30) and a lithium-polymer battery that is 38 percent larger and more energy dense. The newer electric motor can run up to 62 mph (100 km/h), meaning that it can run on electricity at higher speeds, saving more fuel. It also retains the 2.4-liter, multi-port fuel injected, four-cylinder engine, which uses a modified Atkinson cycle achieved via VVT and a compression ratio of 13:1. Upgraded computer programming smooths the transitions between gas and electric power modes. The hybrid’s 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) time decreased from 9.5 to 8.1 seconds (note: the non-hybrid Sonata’s time is 7.9).

Standard features include Bluetooth, Satellite radio, dual-zone climate control, auxiliary and USB jacks, a CD Player, six-speaker surround system, 16-inch allow wheels, automatic headlights, LED running lights, fog lights, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, push-button start, cruise control, an eight-way power driver seat, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated front seats, and Hyundai’s BlueLink emergency communications system. Additional options include touchscreen navigation, a rearview camera, panoramic sunroof, HD radio, Infinity audio system (nine speakers), 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power driver seat with lumbar support, heated rear seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Safety

The hybrid Sonata received top five-star ratings for overall crash protection and overall side protection as well as four-ratings for overall frontal protection.Safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, front side-impact airbags, full-length curtain airbags, and active front head restraints.

Turbo

To replace the V6 power option for the Hyundai Sonata in certain markets, Hyundai has developed a turbo-powered 2.0-liter engine that has direct injection and is intercooled. The Theta-II engine produces 274 horsepower (204 kW) and 269 lb⋅ft (365 N⋅m) of torque while achieving an efficiency rating of 34 mpg_‑US (6.9 L/100 km; 41 mpg_‑imp) highway, beating the specs provided by the 3.3-liter Lambda V6 offered in the previous model. The new model is badged as the 2.0T and is available on the SE or Limited trim lines. All turbo models get standard dual zone climate control, steering wheel paddle shifters, chrome-tipped dual exhaust, and 18-inch wheels that are shared with the non-turbo SE models. Limited 2.0T models receive all of these options as well as a heated leather interior, sunroof and other features.

Seventh generation (LF; 2015–present)

Seventh generation (LF)
Overview
Also called	Sonata New Rise (South Korea, facelifted version)
Production	2014–present 2018–present (Russia)
Model years	2015–present
Assembly	South Korea: Asan United States: Montgomery, Alabama China: Beijing Russia: Kaliningrad (Avtotor)
Designer	Tae-Hoon Kim (2011)
Powertrain
Engine	1.6 L G4FJ I4 (turbocharged gasoline) 2.0 L Nu I4 (gasoline) 2.0 L Theta I4 (turbocharged gasoline) 2.4 L Theta I4 (gasoline) 2.4 L Theta GDi 'I4 (gasoline) 1.7 L U2 I4 (turbocharged diesel)
Transmission	6-speed automatic 8-speed automatic 7-speed dual-clutch automatic 6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,805 mm (110.4 in)
Length	4,855 mm (191.1 in)
Width	1,865 mm (73.4 in)
Height	1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Curb weight	1,435–1,640 kg (3,164–3,616 lb)

Interior

Originally internally coded as LFA, the 2015 Sonata was unveiled in Korea late March 2014, and was unveiled in America at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. While the previous model incorporated significant aesthetic changes and sold successfully within the U.S, sales in Korea failed to meet expectations. A more conservative approach was thus taken, to appease the Korean market, resulting in Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. The car inherits many styling features from Hyundai's Hyundai HCD-14 Concept unveiled at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. The car also takes interior and exterior styling based on the 2014 Hyundai Aslan. In Australia and New Zealand, Hyundai have reverted to the use of the Sonata badge, replacing the i45 badge that was used only on the sixth generation Sonata in that market.

Some cars had to be recalled because of manufacturing defects that affected safety.

Facelift (2017-present)

A facelifted seventh-generation Sonata was unveiled in March 2017. Korean name is 'Sonata New Rise'. The exterior received a radical redesign more in line with the sixth-generation, including new headlights, tail lights, cascading grille, and optional vertical LED lighting. The front of the 2018 Sonata shares some characteristics of the sixth generation Grandeur/ Azera. The dashboard was reshaped, with new air vents on the driver's side and a larger touch screen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior also received a new steering wheel, gearshift, and instrument cluster. Other standard features added in the refresh include standard wireless phone charger and USB port for rear passengers. The Hyundai Blue Link telematics system was also upgraded to be compatible with Amazon Echo and Google Home devices.

A mid-trim SEL trim level was also added for 2018, with standard features such as Hyundai Blue Link in-vehicle telematics system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, A/M-F/M HD Radio, and a power-adjustable front driver's bucket seat also became available for 2018, and both the base SE and Eco trims lost those features as standard equipment.

Pre-facelift styling

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  Front

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  Rear

Post-facelift styling

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  Front

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  Rear

Sonata Plug-in Hybrid

As part of the seventh-generation Sonata, Hyundai announced the release of a plug-in hybrid variant scheduled for market launch in the second half of 2015. Technical details of the Sonata PHEV were announced at the 2015 North American International Auto Show. The Sonata PHEV was released in selected markets in the United States in November 2015. It is available only in California and 9 other states which share the same zero-emissions vehicle requirements as California.

The Sonata plug-in all-electric range in blended mode is up to 27 mi (43 km) as rated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and a total range of 600 miles (970 km). Since the Sonata PHEV uses some gasoline during the all-electric mode, the EPA considers the actual all-electric range is between 0 to 27 miles (0 to 43 km). The EPA fuel economy rating is 99 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPG-e) (2.4 L/100 km; 119 mpg-imp) in charge-depleting (all-electric) mode and a combined city/highway rating of 40 mpg_‑US (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg_‑imp) in hybrid mode. In contrast, the conventional 2016 model year Sonata gasoline-electric hybrid has an EPA rated combined fuel economy of 41 miles per US gallon (5.7 L/100 km; 49 mpg_‑imp), 39 miles per US gallon (6.0 L/100 km; 47 mpg_‑imp) in the city and 43 miles per US gallon (5.5 L/100 km; 52 mpg_‑imp) on the highway.

Marketing (U.S., 2018)

In the United States, Hyundai released a television advertisement for the new 2018 Sonata. The commercial begins with a man in gridlock traffic driving a red 2018 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Limited singing along to Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond playing on his Sonata's audio system, with his windows down. As he sings, he receives awkward stares from passerby. A woman driving a blue 2018 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Limited is sitting beside the man in traffic, and the two take turns singing a duet of the song. The message of the commercial was that the new Sonata allows you to enjoy your otherwise unexciting commute thanks to its advanced technology.

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  Sonata Plug-in Hybrid badge

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  2015-2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (South Korea)

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  2015 Hybrid rear view

Sales

Country	1980	1981	1982	1983	1984	1985	1986	1987	1988	1989
United States										34,698
	1990	1991	1992	1993	1994	1995	1996	1997	1998	1999
United States	29,840	26,421	17,196	15,420	13,339	17,055	14,616	22,128	14,144	30,022
	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Canada					6,974	8,175	12,466	11,034	10,298	8,975
United States		62,385	68,085	82,330	107,181	130,365	149,513	145,568	117,357	120,028
	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018
Canada	13,856	16,343	14,572	14,519	13,645	13,497	10,191	7,827
United States	196,623	225,961	230,605	203,648	216,936	213,303	199,408	131,803

External links

• Official website
• Official website (Turbo)
• Official website (Hybrid)
• Official website (Plug-in Hybrid)