2007 Hyundai Sonata

Corporate emphasis and focus stays firmly on quality, meaningful technology including all-new ngines and suspension, increased safety and instinctive satisfaction for driver and passengers alike.

Since its introduction in the Korean market in 1985, Sonata has always reigned as one of Hyundai’s most important models. Traditionally, it has been the model that has introduced new technology to the range. The new Sonata carries on this tradition by offering up-rated quality throughout and the innovative Active Geometry Control Suspension (AGCS) System due to be 
introduced later in 2005.

As the standard bearer for Hyundai saloons in Europe and North America, Sonata’s high engineering standards and build quality have drawn plaudits. Most recently, it was named as best in its segment in the 2004 Initial Quality Survey conducted by J.D. Power and Associates. The newest Sonata which is making its world debut at the Paris Motor Show has been designed and engineered to extend a 19-year strong tradition of steadily elevating the levels of quality and customer satisfaction. This is reflected by a target of 230,000 unit sales for 2005.

Designed to deliver higher levels of comfort, confidence and refinement in all categories, the new Sonata introduces two all-new engines, a 3.3-litre DOHC V-6 and a 2.4-litre DOHC in-line four. For the 2006 model year, a new 2.0 CRDi diesel unit will be added to the options list. In addition, the new Sonata’s handling, ride and NVH have received meticulous attention, and interior space has been increased. For greater peace of mind, Sonata benefits from a comprehensively engineered program of active and passive safety and includes standard front, side and dual curtain airbags with ESP remaining optional.

The new generation Sonata is 55mm longer than the previous model, with its wheelbase extended by 30mm. This slight increase of size has been a major factor in creating a generously roomy interior. Front leg room has been increased by 10mm and rear by 30mm, with proportional gains (22mm front and 15mm rear) to headroom. The luggage capacity has also been increased to a highly desirable 462 litres.

Displaying high levels of European influence, the design of the new Sonata will certainly not disappoint any one looking for both elegance and practicality. Among the noteworthy features are optional 17-inch alloy wheels, dual exhausts on the V-6, tilt and telescopic steering column, power/tilt sliding sunroof, triple spray windscreen washers, MP3 capable in-dash 6 CD changer, steering wheel audio control, automatic climate control, air-quality control system, wind screen de-icing and a manual rear sunblind.

The result is a confident, effortless, and secure performance saloon built to take on the best from Europe and Japan in European and world markets.

Lower Prices, More Variety, Greater Value and Unsurpassed Standard Safety Technologies Mark the 2007 Sonata
 
Fresh off of its record-breaking 2006 model year, Hyundai’s award-winning Sonata continues to encourage consumers to rethink purchasing a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry in 2007.

With new features, new trim designations, a lower base price, and continued leadership as the only midsize sedan under $20,000 with lifesaving Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard equipment, the American-made 2007 Sonata is set to continue its sales growth in the competitive midsize sedan segment.

NEW FOR 2007

•  MSRP reductions from $500 – $800 on GLS 4-cylinder models
•  New SE model features standard 17-inch wheels and tires and a 234 hp. 3.3 liter V-6 engine
•  New top-of-the-line Limited model features a new chrome grille and an optional Infinity® premium CD changer audio system
•  Five star crash safety rating
•  Dark Cherry Red and Natural Khaki added to paint choices
•  Black leather interior optional on Limited trim
•  XM® satellite radio standard (late availability)
•  Engines now meet Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (LEV-II ULEV)
•  Improved steering wheel audio controls (late availability)

The new-for-2006 Hyundai Sonata quickly set the benchmark for value and standard safety technology in the midsize segment. Upon its introduction last year, the 2006 Sonata beat Honda Accord and Toyota Camry to take first place in an Edmunds.com Inside Line comparison test. Edmunds.com reported, “In the end, it wasn’t even close…in the areas of performance and features, the Hyundai won in a landslide …Bottom Line: With the 2006 Sonata, Hyundai convincingly beats the long-standing class leaders in nearly every important category.” In addition, MotorWeek recognized the Hyundai Sonata as the Best Family Sedan in its 2006 “Drivers’ Choice Award”, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance named it a “Best in Class” midsize, Consumers Digest gave it a “Best Buy” award, and Popular Mechanics awarded it its first-ever “Safety Excellence” award for its leadership in the application of standard safety technologies like ESC. Also very impressive is how well Sonata scored right out of the gate in the 2006 Initial Quality Study issued by J.D. Power and Associates ranking third in the highly competitive midsize car segment.

Sonata’s impressive trophy case is complemented by its combination of striking style, an extensive list of standard features, and the growing strength of Hyundai’s brand, which now appeals to a broader range of customers than ever before. Drawing new customers to the brand is entirely by design, as Hyundai began the new Sonata program by surveying American consumers at clinics about their likes and dislikes, wants, needs and preferences for midsize sedans. This consumer-focus has succeeded in propelling Sonata to a 61 percent sales increase in 2006. It now ranks as the eight best-selling car in the country, and is cross-shopped most frequently against the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord – the two best-selling cars in the U.S.

UNSURPASSED ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY

The Hyundai Sonata has earned the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) top five-star crash test rating for front and side impacts. This accomplishment was made possible by Sonata’s standard-setting active and passive safety technology. Every Sonata has ESC with Traction Control as standard equipment, along with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and four-wheel disc brakes. This is important because the NHTSA has reported that ESC results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars.

In the event that a crash is unavoidable, the Sonata features six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags—along with active front-seat head restraints. Other passive safety features include shingle-style rear-seat head restraints for improved visibility, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front-seat seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and a rear-seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for child seats.

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Design

Following Hyundai’s mission to provide more for the money, the Sonata measures 188.9 inches long, 58.0 inches tall and 72.1 inches wide – making it both taller and wider than the 2007 Accord and Camry.

In adopting a fresh new European look, Hyundai stylists have produced a clean and sophisticated package with cutting edge highlights. New frontal treatment includes a purposeful single bar grille, narrow one-piece headlights and strongly defined hood character lines. From the side, the stable proportions are further emphasised by character lines, and integrated into the overall lines at both front and rear. Seventeen-inch wheels, with understated flared wheel arches, flush door handles in a chromed finish and the integrated lower protective moulding all add to the refined but sporting impression. At the rear, the narrow light clusters and purposeful bumper treatment further emphasis this refined athletic appearance.

Inside, detailed consideration has been given to creating a fresh, simple and upscale nvironment. The use of higher grade materials and increased interior space give a modern and supportive feeling. The two tone colour combination is highlighted by a thin wooden centre strip. The supportiveness of the seats is immediately apparent as is the simplicity and convenience of the switchgear. The exterior sporting impression is further defined here by the gate-type transmission lever and the classic instrument binnacle. Flush air outlets are perfectly ositioned to maximise the through flow efficiency of the ventilation system. The result is a distinctive, comfortable and harmonious ambience for both driver and passengers.

But it is the sophisticated design that really defines the Sonata. The unibody, made of high-tensile steel, features a bold, concave hood design, distinctive rear-door cut lines, strong Z-lined body-to-fascia interfaces, and four-barrel jeweled projector lens headlights. Furthering its look of solidity are 16-inch wheels on the GLS and standard 17-inch alloy wheels on the SE and Limited. The model range also offers a choice of 11 solid, metallic and mica colors.

A WELL-CRAFTED INTERIOR THAT IS A “CLASS-ABOVE” THE COMPETITION

The Sonata is classified by the EPA as a Large Car, truly a “class above” the Accord, Camry, Altima, Fusion and Malibu (all are categorized as midsize cars). Even in trunk room, the Sonata shines. Sonata’s 16.3 cu. ft. of trunk space give it a 16 percent advantage over Accord, an eight percent advantage over the new Camry, and a four percent advantage over Altima.

Sonata likewise delivers on Hyundai’s pledge to offer more sophistication and refinement. For instance, premium doorsill scuff plates greet Limited passengers, who also enjoy either gray metalgrain or woodgrain interior trim accents with their gray, beige, or new-for-2007 black leather interiors.

Standard convenience features include tilt steering and an auto-up/down power-window function with pinch protection. The front center console offers dual-tier storage and two covered cupholders (deeper for 2007); two more cupholders are located in the rear center armrest.

Sonata also delivers class-leading cabin quietness and reduced wind noise. Designers increased the strength and stiffness of the body structure to reduce engine and road noise.

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Powertrains

The relaxed sporting ambience owes much to the refinement of the two new engines specifically developed for the new Sonata. Both the new 3.3 litre Lambda and the 2.4 litre Theta engines have been developed to provide maximum power and economy with minimum harshness and exhaust emissions. Built on the world’s newest and most highly automated engine manufacturing line at Asan, these two engines feature all-aluminium cylinder blocks, variable valve timing and, on the Lambda, a variable intake system. The power output of the 3.3 litre is 171.4Kw at 6200rpm with an impressive 304Nm of torque at 3500rpm. The 2.4 litre serves up 118.5Kw at 5800rpm with 219Nm of torque at 4250rpm. In the case of the 3.3 litre, this is transmitted by a new five-speed H-Matic gearbox. The 2.4 litre unit offers a choice of a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The forthcoming 2.0VGT CRDi diesel unit will deliver 99.3Kw at 4000rpm with torque of 304Nm at 2000rpm, and will be available in Europe with either an all-new six-speed manual or the new four-speed automatic transmission.

A pair of engines combine excellent front-wheel-drive performance with fuel economy. The 2.4-liter DOHC inline-four cylinder in the Sonata GLS is part of Hyundai’s “Theta” group of engines, and is rated at 162 horsepower and 164 lb.-ft. of torque. This high-tech all-aluminum 16-valve engine features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), a durable stainless-steel exhaust manifold, and twin balance shafts and hydraulic motor mounts to reduce vibration. It meets ULEV emissions standards and returns an impressive 24 mpg city/34 mpg highway with the Sonata’s standard five-speed manual transmission, and 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway with the optional four-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®. The Sonata four-cylinder engine’s power output exceeds that of the 2007 Camry, while matching its fuel economy.

Standard in the Sonata SE and Limited models is the 3.3-liter V6 that produces 234 horsepower and 226 lb-ft. of torque. As the first member of Hyundai’s “Lambda” engine family, this engine also has all-aluminum construction, dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, CVVT and hydraulic engine mounts. It also features a Variable Intake System (VIS) to further broaden its power curve, improving off-the-line acceleration and passing performance. The Sonata SE and Limited offer 15 lb.-ft. more torque than the Accord V6. Mileage estimates are 20 mpg city/30 mpg highway. For 2007, the 3.3L engine is enhanced to achieve higher mileage emissions durability through the introduction of a high-technology catalytic converter wash-coat.

All SE and Limited models use Hyundai’s five-speed SHIFTRONIC® automatic transmission, which features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. Neither the Accord nor Camry offer manual-mode operation.

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Chassis

An advanced four-wheel independent suspension system provides occupants with a smooth, supple ride combined with excellent roadholding. Up front is a double-wishbone system with coil springs, twin-tube gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. The system’s lower control arms increase handling precision while reducing vibration, and bushing size has been increased to better absorb the shock from road impacts.

Adouble wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension have been adopted to give the new Sonata both suppleness and exceptionally precise directional stability. A new front subframe adds rigidity while reverse L-type lower arms complement the design by reducing vibration and improving road impact absorption. Larger bushings have been developed to improve isolation and
upgraded shock absorber technology further reduces intrusions on comfort. At the rear, considerable attention has been given to a better distribution of input loads. A stiffer body and improvements in suspension geometry, such as increased caster and improved roll efficiency, contribute to better ride and handling characteristics while reducing NVH in all major areas.

Active Geometry Control Suspension (AGCS), an innovative Hyundai technology first shown at the 2002 Seoul Motor Show, is of key importance in achieving the all-round improvements in dynamic performance but also contributes to enhanced safety.

This unique, patented system is applied on the rear suspension to regulate toe-in using two electric actuators which vary the geometry of control arms.

Cornering stability and ride quality are raised to a whole new level with this highly cost-effective solution. Because the control direction is perpendicular to the acting load in regulating wheel toe-in, the system is inherently more efficient than conventional systems that control in the same direction as the acting load. AGCS offers improvements in ride quality and control that go beyond ESP (Electronic Stability Program). While ESP decelerates the vehicle, AGS optimizes toe-in geometry to improve road grip and extend the slipping point.

During low-speed cornering and straight line driving, toe-in is reduced for truer tracking and greater stability while at high cornering speeds, toe-in is increased which extends the slipping point to yield faster slalom course times. Working in concert with the gascharged struts and compliant rear springs, AGCS delivers a much stabler and more secure handling profile.

Additional measures to reduce NVH include the use of thicker side glass, a flat under body and detailed improvements to the ventilation and air conditioning blower and the engine cooling fan. The result is (according to internal tests) class leading lows in NVH, both when the vehicle is idling and under way.

In back, a sophisticated multi-link system provides excellent handling along with superb ride quality and noise isolation.

The Sonata achieves a 29 percent torsional stiffness advantage over Honda Accord. This rigid body allows Hyundai’s chassis engineers to tune suspension settings to achieve a more comfortable, quieter ride than Accord, while still maintaining precise steering and handling.

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Models and equipment

From well equipped, to really well equipped, to downright luxurious, the 2007 Sonata lineup honors the needs and desires of midsize-sedan customers with a highly competitive mix of features and benefits. The new Sonata is available in GLS, SE and top-of-the-line Limited trim levels. Each delivers a level of standard equipment that is a cut above comparable models in the class.

SONATA GLS

With an MSRP of $17,195, the 2007 Sonata GLS is priced $700 less than 2006 Sonata GL base model. The GLS also has a sizable price advantage compared to its four-cylinder competition, undercutting the lesser-equipped base 2006 Honda Accord and 2007 Toyota Camry by $1,030 and $1,075 respectively. Accord four-cylinder models are not available with ESC, which is standard on all Sonata models, while Toyota offers ESC as a $650 option on the 2007 Camry. Sonata features a sophisticated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine matched to a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission, with a four-speed SHIFTRONIC® automatic transmission optional.

The Sonata GLS’s standard exterior features include 16-inch steel wheels with Michelin tires, power windows, door locks and outside heated mirrors and keyless entry with alarm. Interior features include an AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system, 60/40 split fold-down rear seats, air conditioning with cabin air filtration, cruise control and tilt-adjustable steering column. An impressive array of passive safety features includes six airbags and active front head restraints. A power driver’s seat, steering wheel audio controls, trip computer, 17-inch alloy wheels, sunroof and fog lamps are optional.

New for 2007 is a GLS Premium-Sport package that combines the fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder, the five-speed manual transmission, 17-inch tires with five-spoke flangeless aluminum wheels, fog lamps, and other premium features – it’s the sportiest four-cylinder in the Sonata family.

SONATA SE – V6 PERFORMANCE, REMARKABLE VALUE

The 2007 SE adds to Sonata’s fun-to-drive factor with Hyundai’s high-tech 3.3-liter V6 engine. The Sonata SE starts at $20,995 – that’s $2,045 less than the lowest price 2007 Camry V6 model, and $4,105 less than the lowest price 2006 Accord V6 sedan. Equipped with all of the features found on the GLS, the SE adds chrome-tipped dual exhausts, five-speed SHIFTRONIC® automatic transmission, larger disc brakes and solar control glass. Other standard features include fog lights, chrome window belt molding, driver’s-seat lumbar support, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a trip computer. Options include a power/tilt sunroof, eight-way power driver’s seat, CD changer, subwoofer and amplifier, and an electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink® and a compass.

SONATA LIMITED

A new range-topping Limited model replaces the 2006 LX model, adding a new grille and audio system. Priced at $22,995, the Sonata Limited is a fully equipped luxury model for midsize buyers who want it all—at a great price. Distinguishing exterior features include 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with lower-profile tires (shared with the SE), a new chrome center-bar grille and chrome-accented exterior door handles. The interior features luxurious leather seating surfaces, an eight-way power driver’s seat and heated front seats. Other upgrades include automatic temperature control with an automatic Air Quality System (AQS), an electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink® and compass, telescoping steering wheel adjustment and a sliding center armrest. The Sonata Limited is so well equipped that the only options are a power/tilt sunroof and an Infinity® AM/FM/6-CD Changer/MP3 with six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier. For the first time, a black leather interior is available on the Limited trim.

AMERICA’S BEST WARRANTY

The 2007 Hyundai Sonata is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty™. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Sonata buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif. is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 725 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.

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 FEATURES

• Limited
• Body Construction
•  Steel unibody 
• Engine
•  2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder
•  Multi-port fuel injection 
•  ULEV emissions 
•  SULEV emissions (green states only) - Partial Zero Emission Vehicle certification 
•  Engine cover 
• Steering
•  Rack-and-pinion, motor driven 
• Suspension
•  Front: Independent, MacPherson struts w/coil springs,
•  gas shocks and stabilizer bar 
•  Rear: Independent, multi-link suspension, gas shocks and
•  stabilizer bar 
• Transmission/drive system
•  5-speed manual 
•  4-speed automatic w/ overdrive lock-up torque converter, gated 
•  Front wheel drive
• EXTERIOR FEATURES
•  Antenna, rod-fixed 
•  Chrome accented grille
•  Bumpers, bodycolor
•  Door handles, bodycolor 
•  Rear garnish, bodycolor 
•  Rear garnish, chrome 
•  Windshield shade band
•  Tinted glass
•  Projector style headlamps 
•  Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) 
•  Fog lights 
•  Heated side mirrors, bodycolor 
• TIRES & WHEELS
•  15-in. steel wheels and P195/65R15 tires 
•  16-in. alloy Euroflange wheels and P205/55R16 tires 
•  Compact spare
• SAFETY / SECURITY FEATURES
•  Power-assisted front-ventilated disc/rear solid disc brakes 
•  4-channel/4-sensor ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
•  EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) 
•  Driver and front passenger advanced airbags
•  Front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags 
•  Roof-mounted side curtain airbags (for outboard passengers)
•  Occupant Classification System (OCS) 
•  Front 3-point seat belts w/adjustable shoulder belt height 
•  Front seat belt pretensioners
•  Rear 3-point seat belts (3) 
•  Adjustable headrests for all passengers 
•  Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) 
•  Front dual active head restraints
•  Childproof rear door locks 
•  Power window lockout button
•  Remote keyless entry system w/alarm, panic, and trunk open
•  Side-impact door beams 
•  Shift interlock system 
•  Front crumple zones 
•  Hood buckling creases and safety stops 
•  Rear crumple zones 
•  Bodyside reinforcements 
•  Energy-absorbing steering column 
• INTERIOR FEATURES
•  Air conditioning 
•  Heater 
•  Cabin air filter
•  Front seatback pockets 
•  Assist grips (3) 
•  Rear coat hangers (2) 
•  Carpeted floor mats
•  12-volt outlets (2)
•  Clock, digital 
•  Console, dual-level storage and center armrest 
•  Cupholders, front (2) 
•  Cupholders, rear (2) 
•  Rear window defroster 
•  Glove box, illuminated 
•  Driver and front passenger-side vanity mirrors 
•  Leather-wrapped steering wheel
•  Leather-wrapped shift knob 
•  Metallic accents (steering wheel and AC surround) 
•  Two-tone interior (gray and beige interiors) 
•  Front passenger bag hook
• AUDIO SYSTEM
•  XM Satellite Radio (late availability) 
•  172-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with 6 speakers and auxiliary input jack 
•  220-watt premium audio system with AM/FM/6-disc CD changer/MP3 and external amp and auxiliary input jack 
•  Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
• ILLUMINATION
•  Overhead dome light w/delay out 
•  Illuminated ignition 
•  Illuminated power window switches 
•  Front map lamps with sunglasses holder 
•  Glove compartment 
•  Cargo area light 
•  Front passengers illuminated vanity mirrors 
•  Blue backlighting illumination 
• POWER / REMOTE CONTROL FEATURES
•  Cruise control, steering wheel mounted 
•  Power door locks
•  Dual power heated outside mirrors, bodycolor, manual folding 
•  Power windows w/driver’s auto-down and lockout
•  Tilt steering wheel
•  Manual telescoping steering wheel 
•  Remote fuel door, hood and trunk release 
• SEATS
•  Cloth seating surfaces 
•  Leather seating surfaces 
•  Heated front seats
•  Driver’s multi-adjustable w/ height adjustment 
•  Reclining front bucket seats w/ adjustable head restraints 
•  Rear seat adjustable head restraints 
•  60/40 split fold-down rear seatback
• METERS / GAUGES
•  Speedometer, tachometer, coolant temperature, fuel level, trip odometer and clock 
•  Trip computer
• WARNING LIGHTS
•  Oil pressure, low fuel, door ajar, airbag, seatbelt,
•  brake, ABS, check engine 
• WARNING CHIMES
•  Key in ignition w/ door ajar, seatbelt 
• WIPERS
•  2-speed variable intermittent windshield wipers w/washer 
• OPTIONAL FEATURES
•  Air conditioning. 
•  Preferred Package includes air conditioning, 172-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with 6 speakers and
•  auxiliary input jack, windshield shade band, fog lights, cruise control, and dual front illuminated vanity mirrors 
•  Preferred + Sunroof Package includes Preferred Package features plus power sunroof 
•  Premium Package includes power sunroof and heated front seats 
•  Sun & Sound Package includes power sunroof and a 220-watt premium audio system with AM/FM/cassette/6-disc
•  CDchanger/MP3 and external amp
• WARRANTY
•  Bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles 
•  Powertrain, 10 years/100,000 miles 
•  Corrosion, 7 years/unlimited miles 
•  Roadside assistance, 5 years/unlimited miles