2018 Hyundai Sonata
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Hyundai Sonata
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Year:2018
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Make:
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Model:
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Engine:inline-4
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Horsepower @ RPM:185 @ 6000
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MPG(Cty):25
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MPG(Hwy):36
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Torque @ RPM:178 @ 4000
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Displacement:2.4 L
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0-60 time:6 sec. (Est.)
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Top Speed:130 mph
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Price:
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car segment:
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size:
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There’s a new Sonata for 2018, and you need to see it!
At one time, Hyundai was one of the best econobox suppliers out there, bringing affordable and efficient vehicles to those who, quite honestly, didn’t have much to spend. Fast forward to today, however, and the brand’s evolution has brought it to a place where its cars are quite luxurious, comfortable, and a pleasure to drive. One prime example of that is the Hyundai Sonata, which has now gone through an extensive facelift for the 2018 model year, bringing about a new and more aggressive exterior look, a revamped, balanced interior, and some enhancements under the metal that include revised suspension and steering systems, a new transmission, and some new safety features as standard equipment.
When the seventh-generation model debuted for the 2015 model year, the Sonata featured DNA from the HCD-14 concept and a few cues from the Hyundai Genesis. It was a big departure from the previous model, but sales still dropped from 2014 to 2015. So, Hyundai went back to the drawing board and revised its Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language into what you’re looking at here today – a car that means business and looks good doing it. Will its new looks, updated interior, and revised suspension be enough to give models like the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, and Chevy Malibu a run for their money? Let’s takes a closer look and find out for ourselves.
Latest Hyundai Sonata news and reviews:
2020 Genesis SUV And 2020 Hyundai Sonata Coming In the Next 12 Months
Hyundai and Genesis are in for a rather amazing year. Both brands will reveal as many as 13 different new models - some facelifted, some new. As per my understanding, the biggest news is the imminent arrival of a new premium SUV with a Genesis badge. Judging by the stunning new Hyundai Santa Fe SUV (that isn’t premium), I expect nothing less than extraordinary and stunning from the upcoming Genesis SUV. The second big debut for 2019 is the coming of the new Hyundai Sonata. We’re looking forward to that one too.
Top Midsize Sedans of 2018
SUVs have become the toast of the automotive world these days that it’s hard to argue against anyone who wants to buy one. It’s just that even though SUVs continue to grow in popularity, it can’t replicate the suave styling and sophistication of some of the most popular midsize sedans on the market today. The best midsize sedans are often those that give you the best of all words. They’re stylish, powerful, comfortable, and spacious. Some even combine all those qualities in one package. SUVs have these qualities, too, but they’re often a product of customers needing them as opposed to wanting them.
With midsize sedans, especially the luxury types, you don’t need space because you have a family to fit inside it, you want the space because you want to show off your ride to your friends. Likewise, you don’t need it to be powerful for your next weekend getaway. You want it to be powerful, so it grabs the attention of the people around you. In here is a list of the best midsize sedans of 2018. Pay attention to who made it because there’s a good chance that if you’re in the market for one, you’ll end up getting one of these models.
From hatches to muscles, cars of all shapes and sizes are adopting green technology. Whether autonomous cars will become a reality or not is a different question; electric cars are the future. Even though the ‘EV’ cars were introduced barely a decade ago, the kind of transformation and innovations we’ve seen in the last couple of years makes the whole thing look like a yesteryear concept. In this article, we’ve listed out the ten most fuel-efficient vehicles.
But before that, let’s just put the basic questions to rest once-in-for-all: the difference between EV, Hybrid, and Plug-in Hybrid - an electric vehicle is the one that runs solely on electric power. You don’t have a combustion engine here whatsoever. A hybrid engine is the one where the car will charge its own batteries on the run with the gasoline engine. As for the plug-in hybrids, the car can be plugged into electricity points to charge the batteries. Now that we have clarified the obvious and bored you enough, let’s move on to the heart of the article.
Hyundai Plotting a New Concept; Could Base the Next-Gen Sonata on the Le Fil Rouge
Two big pieces of news come from Hyundai today, courtesy of an interview with Autocar. Hyundai Styling Chief, Sang-yup Lee told the outlet that the “Russian doll” styling won’t work for the brand as there are just too many models globally and one look wouldn’t suit them all. This is in regard to the awesome styling of the recently revealed Le Fil Rouge, and the future of Hyundai styling in the near and long-term.
“You have a king, queen, bishop, knight – they’re all different, but they become a team when they’re all together,” said Lee. “This is our strategy. I call it a Hyundai look, not a family look.”
With that in mind, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Hyundai already has another concept in the works, and it will be more emotional. Lee sees it as a way to demonstrate how Hyundai’s new design can be interpreted differently. He said that if the Le Fil Rouge is the queen, then the next concept will be the bishop. So, you can expect to see something pretty radical from the Korean brand by the end of this year as it continues to move further and further away from the econobox history it once embraced.
Lee also added in that a new production car in 2019 would take a lot of design cues from the next Le Fil Rouge, which could be really good news. The next production car to come out of Hyundai could very well be the next-gen Sonata. It was introduced in 2015 but was facelifted in 2017. The last two generations had short life cycles (4 to 5 years, max) so 2019 would be the perfect time to showcase an all-new 2020 Sonata.
The Le Fil Rouge was one of the best-looking concepts at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, and the Sonata would look quite nice with those stout lines and sporty presence, don’t you think?
2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
The Sonata is one of those nameplates that just seems to stick around no matter what. First introduced in 1985 as a replacement for the Hyundai Stellar, the first generation only lasted two years before it got the axe. However, the second generation, which was introduced in 1988, fared far better, finding success in a variety of export markets, including North America and Australia. A third generation arrived in 1993, followed by the fourth in 1999, the fifth in 2004, and the sixth in 2010. The latest seventh generation arrived in New York just last year for the 2018 model year, but the hybridized variant was left conspicuously out of the lineup. Now, the new seventh-gen hybrid has arrived following a debut at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show. While still framed as Hyundai’s near-premium mid-size four-door, this latest generational update brings improvements in the chassis and handling department, plus new exterior and interior bits, new safety features, and new features for connectivity and infotainment. All told, Hyundai is looking to take a more premium approach with the Sonata Hybrid, enhancing it with an upscale appearance, a nicer ride, and better equipment throughout.
Of course, with demand shifted primarily towards the crossover and SUV segment, competition among the sedans is ruthless right now, especially in the near-premium slot. The question is – where will the Sonata excel? Well, the hybrid gear is certainly a tempting proposition, but how good is it really? Read on to find out.
Continue reading to learn more about the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Gets More Power, Better Mileage in Chicago
Introduced in 2015, the current-generation Sonata replaced a model that was around for only five years. Unlike its predecessor, the current sedan is set to hang around a bit longer, having received a consistent facelift in 2017. With the almost redesigned Sonata in dealerships, Hyundai is rolling out similar updates for the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Both were unveiled at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show.
Not surprisingly, exterior updates are similar to the regular model. The front fascia now sports larger, more aggressive headlamps, a bigger grille with a new mesh, and a reshaped engine hood. The new headlamps features LED technology with dynamic cornering function. A new decklid and taillights round off the rear section, while the sides get new 16- and 17-inch "eco-spoke" wheel designs.
The cabin boasts a new center stack and steering wheel, the latter available with heating. The upgraded navigation system includes new Bird’s Eye View map perspective. Models equipped with navigation get wireless phone charging, while a rear USB charging port is available for all trims. Blind-spot detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist are standard, while Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Lane Keep Assist are available as options for the first time.
Continue reading for the full story.
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2018 Hyundai Sonata
At one time, Hyundai was one of the best econobox suppliers out there, bringing affordable and efficient vehicles to those who, quite honestly, didn’t have much to spend. Fast forward to today, however, and the brand’s evolution has brought it to a place where its cars are quite luxurious, comfortable, and a pleasure to drive. One prime example of that is the Hyundai Sonata, which has now gone through an extensive facelift for the 2018 model year, bringing about a new and more aggressive exterior look, a revamped, balanced interior, and some enhancements under the metal that include revised suspension and steering systems, a new transmission, and some new safety features as standard equipment.
When the seventh-generation model debuted for the 2015 model year, the Sonata featured DNA from the HCD-14 concept and a few cues from the Hyundai Genesis. It was a big departure from the previous model, but sales still dropped from 2014 to 2015. So, Hyundai went back to the drawing board and revised its Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language into what you’re looking at here today – a car that means business and looks good doing it. Will its new looks, updated interior, and revised suspension be enough to give models like the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, and Chevy Malibu a run for their money? Let’s takes a closer look and find out for ourselves.
Making A Better Penalty Box – 2018 Hyundai Sonata Actually Looks Pretty Nice
At this point, I think it’s safe to classify the Hyundai Sonata as a rock solid standby in the affordable mid-size commuter sedan segment. The nameplate has been in use since 1985, with its current seventh-generation first introduced in 2014. To keep it going strong, Hyundai just announced a newly refreshed iteration for the 2018 model year at this year’s New York International Auto Show, and it’s bringing revised styling, new features, better technology, and updated hardware. All in all, it’s a rather standard mid-cycle facelift for the seventh-gen, but still quite significant in its impact.
In fact, that’s what Hyundai was aiming for all along, especially when it came to the exterior styling. The fresh look incorporates what the automaker calls a cascading grille design up front, plus a “more assertive profile,” and a redesigned rear end outfitted with a new, svelte taillight design.
We think it looks pretty good, moving the aesthetic ahead in a refined, attractive way. Not only does it look nice, but Hyundai also managed to dig under the skin to make it handle better, not to mention make it a little quicker and a bit more efficient as well.
Looking for details? Read on.
Continue reading to learn more about the new Hyundai Sonata.
2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Hyundai’s sixth-generation Sonata (2009 – 2014) sold pretty well here in the U.S., but over in the brand’s home turf, South Korea, the car didn’t exactly exceed sales expectations. As such, 2014 brought the seventh generation model to S. Korea, which ultimately came stateside for 2015. Featuring styling cues from the Hyundai HCD-14 Concept, the car utilizes Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language that brings together things like a new grille design, new headlight lenses, LED foglights, an all-new dashboard, and there’s even a dual-clutch, seven-speed transmission available for certain models. Come 2016, and Hyundai released the Sonata Hybrid with pared a 2.0-liter engine with a 51 horsepower electric motor to provide fuel economy as high as 44 mph while cruising the interstate. With the Hybrid already on the road, it should come as no surprise that Hyundai has finally announced a plug-in variant of the Sonata Hybrid that offers an all-electric range of 27 miles and 99 MPGe when operating in EV mode.
While the new plug-in model uses the same 2.0-liter, four-cylinder the electric motor has been upgraded from 38 kW to 50 kW. That means that the new plug-in hybrid is actually a little more powerful. But, there is a tradeoff. See, the Sonata hybrid pulls 39 mpg in the city, 44 mpg on the highway, and 42 mpg combined. While it seems like a plug-in hybrid would be more fuel efficient, this model actually gets 39 mpg combined when operating in hybrid mode. So, unless you plan to actually make use of that all-electric range on a regular basis, you might want to consider the regular hybrid over the plug-in model. But, more about that later.
For now, let’s take a look at the DNA that makes up the new plug-in Sonata and everything that it brings to the table.
Continue reading to learn more about the Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.
Hyundai is recalling nearly 130,000 Sonatas over an issue with the seatbelt buckle. According to a recall bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 128,804 Sonatas built for the 2015 model year are being called back for front passenger seatbelts that may not work.
"The affected vehicles have a front passenger seat belt whose buckle latch assembly may prevent the front passenger from fastening the seat belt," said the NHTSA. Moreover, it seems that the dashboard warning light will still operate normally even if the belt buckle is jammed, meaning occupants sitting in the front passenger seat may not be aware of the issue.
The sedans in question were manufactured between April 25th and December 4th, 2014. Hyundai will notify owners and dealers will repair or replace the front passenger seat belt buckle free of charge. The recall will begin August 21st, 2015. Hyundai doesn’t say whether the recall also includes the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, which we recently tested. Our tester lived.
Concerned Sonata owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059 (recall number 130) or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
Continue reading for the full story.
Hyundai’s current 2015 Hyundai Sonata sedan got a rather extensive makeover for the 2015 model year. Its exterior, interior and powertrain were basically all new, though sadly, the hybrid model was left out of the fun like the dorky kid in a schoolyard game of kickball. The analogy grows ever more convincing when looking at the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid’s odd face. It’s one only its mother could love. But that’s all changed for 2016. It’s like the dork went to summer camp and pumped iron, started fire with his bare hands, and learned how to flirt with the ladies.
The new Sonata Hybrid now enjoys all the same features that made the 2015 Sonata a fantastic car. It’s got the suave looks of a gentleman, an interior that makes luxury offerings from five years ago look like rental cars, and Hyundai’s new 2.0-liter gasoline direct-injected four-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission that afford some Prius-like fuel economy numbers.
I recently got the chance to sample the new 2016 Sonata Hybrid for a week. It came decked out in the range-topping Limited trim with the exclusive Ultimate Package. Besides a self-driving mode or perhaps a built-in refrigerator, this car seemed to have every bell and whistle imaginable on a modern sedan.
Even with its optional equipment and hybrid drive system, its price didn’t shock the system. At $35,765 as tested, the Sonata Hybrid solidifies itself as a fuel-sipper that thinks it’s a luxury sedan.
Continue Reading for the full driven review
Hyundai has just announced a new update for its Blue Link app that enables Apple Watch users to control various car functions from their wrists. The app and associated update is currently available for free download at the App Store.
Hyundai’s cloud-based Blue Link platform enables features like remote engine start, remote engine stop (only available when the engine has been remotely started), remote door lock and unlock, remote flash lights, remote honk horn, car finder, vehicle status (which includes service information) and parking meter.
Users can activate these functions either by haptic controls (click the icon) or voice commands (hit the microphone icon and say something like “Find my car,” or “Start my car”).
The update will work with both first and next-generation Blue Link-equipped Hyundai vehicles. The first-generation Blue Link system was offered on the 2012 Sonata and expanded across the automaker’s lineup throughout 2013. Next-gen Blue Link-equipped vehicles include the 2015 Hyundai Genesis, 2015 Hyundai Sonata and 2015 Hyundai Azera.
Hyundai launched it’s Android Wear app at CES earlier this year, which included similar functionality to the Apple Watch app. Prior to this, Hyundai expressed interested in developing an app for Google Glass users, but canceled the project over insufficient demand for it.
BMW, Volkswagen, Porsche, and other automakers are also developing their own Apple Watch apps. Hyundai is believed to be the first to bring their app to market.
Continue reading for the full story.
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The next generation of in-car connectivity is finally here, and it is one that comes with a focus on safety by reducing driver distractions. The newly redesigned 2015 Hyundai Sonata will begin offering Android Auto as standard equipment on cars equipped with a navigation system. As for buyers who have already purchased their 2015 Sonata, the system will be available later as a software update – again though, only on cars with navigation.
Of all the benefits of Android Auto, the biggest is that it allows drivers to fully integrate their Android smartphones (equipped with the latest Android “Lollipop” operating system), meaning that now you can leave your phone alone while you’re driving. Actually, drivers have no choice: when the car and phone are paired properly, the smartphone’s screen is automatically locked. To use the functions of their phones, drivers can use the audio controls on the steering wheel, the touch screen or even voice recognition. The downside is that it must be tethered through a USB cord to take full advantage of the technology, but the numerous safety benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
Android Auto is able to run various Google Apps such as Google Maps, Google Play and Google Now, but it can also run many third-party apps such as iHeartRadio, TextMe, NPR, Stitcher and Skype. After the new Sonata, Android Auto will be available on a growing number of Hyundai cars and crossovers. As for the software update, current owners of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata can have Android Auto installed at no charge by their dealer, and later this year they’ll be able to do the download for free by themselves.
Continue reading for the full story.
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
The Sonata nameplate may be 29 years old as of 2014, but Hyundai’s midsize sedan made little impact on the U.S. market until 2009, when the sixth-generation model was introduced. Developed over four years in a process that cost Hyundai $372 million, the YF Sonata became the first of its kind to receive an assembly line on North American soil. It received a couple of brand-new Theta engines, as well as a hybrid drivetrain that returned 38 mpg combined. The non-hybrid Sonata received yet another makeover for the 2015 model year, which brought exterior and interior styling based on the all-new Genesis. Handsome to look at and more upscale on the inside, the new Genesis was received with enthusiasm in the U.S. As the seventh-gen sedan arrived in dealerships for the 2015 model year, Hyundai revealed a brand-new Hybrid model in South Korea that follows the styling of the non-hybrid models.
With the United States being Hyundai’s most important market in terms of hybrids and plug-in hybrids, the redesigned Sonata Hybrid also received its yankee baptism at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. With rather slim differences in terms of styling compared with the non-hybrid model, the new 2016 Sonata Hybrid comes with an entirely new drivetrain and improved fuel economy. The previous generation’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder has been replaced by a downsized, direct-injection, two-liter four cylinder, while the electric motor brings the total power output to a not-to-shabby 193 horsepower.
Updated 01/12/2015: The all-new Sonata Hybrid made its North American debut at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show and will be put on sale later this year. Click past the jump to find out the new details.
Continue reading to learn more about the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
You may recall my first drive experience with the all-new 2015 Hyundai Sonata. It took place in the heartland of Alabama, along I-65 at Hyundai’s Montgomery Assembly Plant. There I spent time in with all three Sonata models: the 1.6-liter, I-4 Turbo in the Eco model, the 2.4-liter, I-4 volume engine, and the sportier, 2.0-liter, I-4 Turbo. All three made a positive impression during the short routes over the busy afternoon. A more extended test was in order.
I recently spent a week behind the wheel of a Sonata 2.0T painted in Urban Sunset, much like the tester I had in Montgomery. Even the options list — or lack thereof — looked the same. Carpeted floor mats costing $125 was the only added extra my recent ride had. That’s not altogether terrible, as the Sonata comes with a healthy list of standard features, including the proximity key entry and push-button starting, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a five-inch touchscreen in the dash with SiriusXM and Bluetooth connectivity, HID headlights, and LED taillights. The most noticeable feature missing is navigation, but it is available.
The Sonata proved to be a helpful tool in the week’s chore list — a list that included a trip to IKEA, hauling four other passengers around town, and jaunting down the highway while riding solo. So how did the Hyundai handle the week? Click past the jump to find out.
Click past the jump for more on the 2015 Sonata
A massive robot swings its single arm left, and picks up the entire shell of a Hyundai Sonata, lifting it skyward, twisting it around, and setting down perfectly in place on a jig where more robots angrily attack it with welding guns. Sparks fly as more pieces find their way into the new 2015 Hyundai Sonata.
As you may have read in my review of the all-new 2015 Sonata, my recent time behind the wheel of Hyundai’s newest car also came with a quick spin around the automaker’s Alabama assembly plant. The behind-the-scenes tour weaved its way past massive robots, around long conveyer belts, and over thousands of square feet of floor space all dedicated to building cars.
Scenes like that above happen all over the three-million square-foot facility, around the clock and every day of the week. The Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama plant is responsible for making nearly half of every Elantra and Sonata sedan wandering American roads and every single Sonata Hybrid sold in the States. Each and every day, another 1,000 new Hyundais roll off the assembly line thanks to the work of some 3,000 workers and over 400 robots.
Click past the jump for an inside look into the HMMA Assembly Plant
The Sonata has been roaming the streets of America since 1989. Those early Hyundais were rather boring, bland cars with little styling, questionable reliability, and a name that was synonymous with less-than-impressive tax brackets. Things began to change for the Korean automaker when its products became better looking and longer lasting. The 2005 Sonata was a key player in that movement with its good-looking proportions and U.S.-built claim-to-fame. Things got even better in 2011 when Hyundai debuted the YF platform Sonata. Its upscale looks and solid powertrain sent the competition packing and sent Hyundai’s sales numbers skyward.
Now entering 2015, the Sonata has once again gone under the knife. But unlike 2011, the look is more sculpted, angular, and upscale thanks to Hyundai’s new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language.
Like I mentioned in my Sonata preview article, I spent a recent day behind the wheel of Hyundai’s newest car in hopes of gaining an understanding about the direction the new Sonata is headed, as well as the changes that exist.
Click past the jump for the full review
Say hello to the 2015 Hyundai Sonata – the Korean automaker’s all-new midsize sedan. From its front grille to tailpipes, this car is completely different inside and out for the upcoming model year. Hyundai invited me to spend a day behind the wheel of its latest cash cow along the rolling hills of Montgomery, Alabama in the shadows of its massive assembly plant perched just off I-65.
With six trim levels and three engines to sample, the testing was extensive. The drive route included plenty of twisty roads, some interstate jaunts, and a few in-town treks to get a feel of how the new Sonata handles. Hyundai has spread out its trim packaging from spartan to sporty to luxurious. The trim levels include SE, Sport, Limited, Sport 2.0T, Sport 2.0T w/ Ultimate Package, and Eco. The three engines are spread evenly throughout the trim levels and include the turbocharged, 1.6-liter I-4; the carry-over, 2.4-liter I-4; and the turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4.
But before I dive into all the nitty-gritty details of the new Sonata in full Driven Review, click past the jump for a sneak peak at what the new car is all about.
The Sonata has been roaming the streets of America since 1989. Those early Hyundais were rather boring, bland cars with little styling, questionable reliability, and a name that was synonymous with less than impressive tax brackets. However, with the Sonata’s 2006 heavy revitalization, that began to change. The idea that the Sonata and the Korean brand making it were bargain basement started to fade. The following generation of Sonatas beginning in 2011 completely obliterated that notion. Hyundai’s brand perception rose, as did its vehicles’ styling, reliability, and ability to sell extremely well. For 2015, the Sonata is again completely new. And new to the Sonata’s trim line is the new Eco model, designed with fuel efficiency as its prime goal.
With Hyundai estimating the car to get 28 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 32 mpg combined, the Sonata Eco gains an extra 10 percent fuel efficiency about the standard 2015 Sonata. Hyundai employs some fairly interesting hardware to achieve the extra efficiency, including a specialized engine and the first-ever use of a dual clutch transmission in the mid-size car category.
Click past the jump to read more about the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco.
The 2014 New York International Auto Show is nearly upon us, with the media preview days set to kick off on April 16 before the grand event opens its doors to the public on April 18. More than 50 vehicles will be on display at the Jacob Javits Convention Center, just about anything from city cars to heavy-duty trucks and track-prepped race cars. About 14 global debuts are expected to happen at NYIAS, with six more vehicles to show their metal to North American enthusiasts for the very first time.
Dodge, Ford, Acura, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche are all set to shows us their latest creations, be it new-generation cars or facelifted versions of existing automobiles. As usual, we’ll be providing you with tons of information from New York, so be on the lookout for more details and in-depth reviews on the most recent apparitions on the automotive horizon.
Meanwhile, we compiled a list with the most important cars and SUV set to be unveiled next week. While some are still under wraps, others have been revealed and detailed ahead of their world debut.
Click past the jump for the 2014 New York Auto Show Preview.
Happy Thursday, everyone! It is time once again for your favorite automotive-centric internet radio show: the TopSpeed.com Podcast. This week Justin and Mark join me for another full show full of hijinks, burning petrol and the occasional silliness.
The Weekly Wheels segment features the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the Mitsubishi Outlander and a special appearance from a classic Porsche.
Our news stories cover the prospect of a new GTI Club Sport, the upcoming 2015 Dodge Charger and a potential successor to the Mitsubishi 3000GT. Mark covers the 5 best pickups under $30k, and then we celebrate the coming of spring with talk of the M4 Convertible.
Thanks to you guys, we had a big Q&A segment that included our picks for worst car names ever, what cars we wish would hit U.S. shores and we discuss what cars we would wipe from the history of existence. Other fun questions include what we would cram a Ferrari V-12 engine into, odd stories from press drives and we discuss what it would take to make us leave this great job. It was quite the eclectic collection of questions.
Thanks for being so awesome, guys. Keep the questions coming.
We wrap up our show with Own, Drive, Burn in which we celebrated the warm weather some more with our choices between a Porsche Boxster, Mercedes-Benz SLK and a BMW Z4.
As an extra bonus to everyone listening, watching and actually reading this far down in the post, I am going to be giving a few of my own personal bits of cool auto stuff to some of you guys. I have a smaller version of the Aston Martin DB5 print that is hanging on my wall, and I have a calendar from the same photographer. To have a chance at winning just subscribe to the TopSpeed Podcast YouTube channel, and follow @TopSpeedPodcast on Twitter. That is it. In two weeks I will pick the two winners and send out your cool free stuff. If you want some extra chances to win, you can follow Justin (@TheCarJunky), Mark (@MarkMcNabb) and myself (@Moeferd) on Twitter as well. One entry for each follow.
Good luck.
As always, don’t forget to keep commenting, giving us suggestions and sending us your questions. You guys can reach us at the above Twitter locations, by commenting on this post or by email: Podcast@TopSpeed.com
Click "Play" below to hear the Topspeed.com Podcast 006. Make sure to catch all of the episodes on our new iTunes channel!
If you want to see our smiling faces, you can see the video version of the Podcast after the jump.
Hosts: Christian Moe, Justin Cupler, Mark McNabb
Weekly Wheels: Porsche 944, Mitsubishi Outlander, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
The Hyundai Sonata has had a pretty long life. Being around since 1985, the car has gone through a total of six generational changes, with the most recent happening for the 2015 model year. Compared to the previous model, the new-gen model isn’t a huge departure from the outgoing model, but it has its own little quirks that set it apart. On the outside, the car showcases Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language. Highlights include a new grille design, redesign headlight lenses, LED fog lights, a raised beltline, and new taillight units. Inside, Hyundai brought about a new dashboard that is more “ergonomic and driver focused,” with better materials and excellent fit. The front seats are heated and cooled while the rear bench is only heated. Depending on the market, the new Sonata is available with a range of gasoline-powered engines and one diesel engine. Transmission options include a six-speed automatic and a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.
All told, the new Sonata is now longer, wider, and more rigid than the previous model, and that’s a good thing considering the stiff competition from models like the Toyota Camry, Chevy Malibu, and Ford Fusion. The Sonata had just been facelifted back in 2012s and was performing well here in the U.S., but over in South Korea, the Sonata wasn’t doing so hot – prompting Hyundai to develop the “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0.” As it usually goes with Hyundai, the new Sonata debuted first in Korea, and finally hit U.S. shores in time for the New York Auto Show. So is it worth looking at the new Sonata over competing models from Toyota, Chevy, and Ford? Take a look at our full review below to find out for yourself.
Click past the jump for more info on the 2015 Hyundai Sonata
The Sonata is Hyundai’s flagship sedan that has been around since 1985 and went through its seventh generational change for 2014. Due to poor sales in Korea, Hyundai had to step up its game with the Sonata, which resulted in its “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0” design language. On the outside, the new Sonata featured a lot of design cues from the Hyundai HCD-14 concept that debuted at the New York Auto show in 2013. On the inside, it took a lot of styling advice from the Hyundai Genesis. Under the hood, it could be had with one of three different gasoline engines, of which, the 2.4-liter was offered in two different variants. There was also a 1.6-liter diesel offered in some markets as well. Shifting was handled be either a six-speed automatic or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. In short, the car came with a new front grille, new HID xenon headlights, new LED taillights, and a new 17-inch wheel design. Inside, the Sonata benefitted from new infotainment display screens, a new LCD information display in the instrument cluster. Optional features included carbon-fiber trim, ventilated driver’s seat, and full-leather steering wheel to name a few.
Of course, all of these updates were needed on this new-generational model, considering the reign of the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and the Toyota Camry. All three have ruled the midsize Japanese market forever, and if Hyundai was going to prove itself a worthy competitor, it had to knuckle down and pull out all the stops. So, how does the new Sonata stack up against the Accord, Altima, and Camry? Well, keep on reading to find out all of the noteworthy details.
Click past the jump to read more about the 2014 Hyundai Sonata.
At the 2010 New York Auto Show, Hyundai unveiled the Sonata Hybrid, and the 2014 model that we got our hands on its nearly identical to the debut model.
Regardless of its age — about 40 years old in car years — the Sonata Hybrid still looks pretty modern, with its distinctive front fascia that shows off LED-trimmed headlamps and a wavy front grill. The LED taillights and aerodynamic rims are the only details that scream "hybrid." Though it remains relatively up to date, we do expect Hyundai to reveal a redesigned Sonata line for 2015, including the hybrid model.
The interior is very well-appointed, and only LCD gauges and "Blue Efficiency" button on the steering wheel clue you in that this is indeed a hybrid model. A quick press of this "Blue Efficiency" button, and the Sonata Hybrid awakens from its efficient — boring — mode. The hybrid system is attached to a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that pumps out 159 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system chimes in with an extra 47 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. In all, this system puts down a respectable 200 horsepower, but don’t expect the mid-3,000-pound, midsize cruiser to pin you to your seat.
After some seat time in the Lexus ES Hybrid, we are a little spoiled, but we have to remind you that you get what you pay for. The Sonata checks in around $30,000, and it delivers a premium look and feel. Taking into consideration that hybrid cars tend receive a 20 to 30 percent premium over their gasoline counterparts, the Sonata Hybrid is a relative bargain.
Click past the jump to read more about the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited
Hyundai’s "Don’t Tell" commercial, one that will have prominent air time during the Super Bowl, has actually been playing in the air for a number of weeks now.
Despite being a full-blow 30-second ad (it’s actually 32 seconds), the "Don’t Tell" commercial is still being characterized as a preview commercial for Hyundai’s total Super Bowl platter, which will include four more commercials.
In addition to "Don’t Tell", which by the way left us with nothing more than a slight chuckle, the Korean automaker is also planning to play "Epic PlayDate,” "Team,” "Stuck,” and "Excited.” These all sound cool enough, but we all know that sounding cool and actually being cool are two completely different things when it comes to Super Bowl ads.
We’ll hold our final judgment once we see all five ads run during the Big Game.
Click past the jump to see two more of the four remaining Super Bowl commercials.
Everyone knows - or at least should know - that getting behind the wheel carries with it a serious responsibility for your life and the life of anyone else in the vehicle. However, it seems that there are some "adventurous" and more or less moronic people out there with little regard to other people’s safety. Take these drift-crazy asswipes as an example.
Cars like the Honda Accord, the Hyundai Sonata, and the Toyota Camry are typically produced as people pushers, some guys in Middle East have found another way to enjoy their family vehicles.
The drivers in this video simply ignored the heavy traffic and started showing off their crazy drifting skills. Take your eyes off of the drifting madness and you can see all kinds of cars, including trucks, around these maniacs. Some people just shouldn’t be allowed to get behind the wheel.
Hyundai unveiled the sixth-generation Sonata midsize sedan at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. The car is on sale in three different trim levels: GLS, Limited and SE with the 198 hp version has a starting price of $19,195 for the well-equipped GLS model; the 200-hp SE model starts at $22,595 and the top-of-the-line Limited model is available for $25,295.
The 2011 Sonata will be the first model to be powered by Hyundai’s new Theta II GDI 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDI) fuel delivery system. The engine is rated at 198 hp (200 hp in the SE version) and 184 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC. A second engine will be added next year, a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine. A 2.4-liter Hybrid Blue Drive version will also be available.
The exterior of the all-new Sonata is long, light and low. The high beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window. A monoform side profile includes flowing lines highlighted by a Hyundai signature chrome accent that spans the length of the car. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the new Sonata, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline. The face is bold with a large powerful chrome grille and headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by 16-, 17- or 18-inch multi-spoke wheels. XM Satellite Radio™, real-time XM NavTraffic, XM Data Services, HD Radio Technology™, Bluetooth®, Touch-screen navigation and iPod®/USB inputs will be offered as standard equipment.
Press release after the jump.
As one of the most esteemed auto magazines in the world, Car and Driver’s annual “Top 10 Cars” is always a good barometer for automakers to see if one – or maybe two – of their vehicles made it to the list. With a readership that spans the entire world, Car and Driver’s Top 10 list is read by millions of people so it’s kind of a big deal for these companies. From the usual suspects to a number of new surprises, the “Top 10 Cars” will reveal what cars the magazine is highly recommending for the next calendar year.
In determining which cars make it to the list, editor-in-chief, Eddie Alterman explains: “In our testing, we are looking for those automobiles that deliver spectacular value, real driver engagement, and the highest fulfillment of their intended mission.”
He continues: “Our testing takes place over a week on real roads in the real world, marshaling more than 60 new test cars and our entire editorial staff. It’s a real workout, and the best cars on the market emerge victorious."
For 2011, the list has a number of old guards that have made multiple appearances while there are others that are making their inaugural face-time. Just to give you an idea on what to expect, three American, German, and Japanese models made it to the list with the other spot going to a model from South Korea. There are also three cars – the Audi S4, the Mazda3, and the Ford Fusion Hybrid – that dropped out of the list, which means that you’re going to be seeing a number of new entries making it to the Top 10.
So without further ado, Car and Driver’s “Top 10 Cars for 2011” after the jump.
It was a very fruitful week in Las Vegas at the SEMA show and although there were numerous vehicles shown, only a few really stood out. After a few days of deliberation, each one of us at TopSpeed picked our favorite special edition, as we all had issues agreeing on what was best.
The SEMA show is one of the most popular automotive events in the world. It can attract more than 100,000 visitors from over 100 countries in the automotive, truck and SUV, and RV markets. The displays are segmented into 12 sections and a New Products Showcase featured nearly 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools and components.
While we love tools and what not, we go for the cars. These tuned beauties remind us of The Fast and the Furious, although some of the cars shown are neither fast nor furious. We’ve already had one winner, as the Chevrolet Camaro was named the Hottest Car, but do we agree?
Hit the jump to keep reading.
We may have seen a rendering of this tuning project by Rides Magazine a month ago, but it was nothing compared to the beautifully sleek and gorgeous Hyundai Sonata Turbo we see before us. This vehicle has jumped our list of must-see SEMA-bound automobiles.
The best part of this project is that everything was done in a subtle way, but with amazing results. The exterior sees new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a rear spoiler, and a roof spoiler hidden behind the matte pearl paint job from BASF. And to prove that black is indeed slimming, Rides has added a matte black debadged front grille, smoked taillights and painted headlights, and 20-inch Rennen Modular M9 concave wheels in a powder coated matte black and wrapped in Falken FK452 tires. These black accents draw your eye to the front and center of the vehicle, while still appreciating the fine lines that lead you there. Audi LED fog lights integrated into the new front bumper and a 3M vinyl carbon wrap on the roof also add to the sexiness of this ride.
For the interior, Rides is offering a combination of black leather and suede with red stitching, along with integrating carbon fiber trim throughout. The trunk gets two JBL 12-inch subwoofers paired with two JBL amplifiers. The whole package is finished by a custom quad tip exhaust and an S-Max front mount intercooler that replaces the factory unit up front.
Hyundai may be taking a couple of Genesis Coupes by Ark and Gogogear Racing as well as Rhys Millen Racing’s Equus and Hyundai’s Equus DUB Edition, but the Hyundai Sonata 2.0T by Rides Magazine definitely steals the show.
Press release after the jump.
In the United States, driving doesn’t seem to be a passion for most people. Just take a road trip and you will understand why we say that. You’ll see people driving along, talking on their phones, eating a burger, or doing their makeup, as they peddle along in their crossovers or large SUVs. But, let’s not just hate on those vehicles, because there are plenty of other dull vehicles that are topping the sales charts. The Toyota Camry, as good as it might be at hauling people, is about as exciting to drive and to look at as a horse and buggy. Honda has been getting this wrap lately as well with the new Accord and we can see why. It got fatter and worse in its current form. Well, if you feel the same way as us, Hyundai might have a solution.
The base Hyundai Sonata is a fine automobile and we find it to be one of the best midsize sedans on the market. It gets great mileage and looks sensational, but the lack of a V6 option makes performance hard to come by. Just take a look at the Nissan Altima. Put a V6 under the hood of that machine and it becomes a whole new animal.
That might not be the case anymore, as automakers are swapping out larger motors for turbocharged ones. The new 2011 Hyundai Sonata Turbo is the perfect example of this new trend. So, is the new Sonata 2.0T a worthy replacement of the V6 midsize sedan, or does it fail to live up to expectations.
Hit the jump to find out.
For those of you interesting in buying a new 2011 Sonata 2.0T, Hyundai is now offering you the chance to configure your car online. We know what you’re thinking, shouldn’t configurators only come for models that are actaually worth spending hours playing around with online? That would be yes, but apparently Hyundai does not care.
The 2011 Sonata 2.0T is offered in two trim levels: Sonata SE 2.0T priced at $24,145 and Sonata Limited 2.0T priced at $27,045. Customers can also choose from a Navigation and sunroof package priced at $2,600 and a Navigation Package priced at $2,100. There is also a short list of accessories that includes ipod cables, wheels locks, cargo net, and more. The new sedan will be offered in a choice of eight exterior colors and only one interior choice: gray leather with cloth for the SE version and gray leather for the Limited version.
The 2011 Sonata 2.0T model is powered by a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged gasoline direct-injection (GDI) engine rated at 274 hp at 6,000 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque from 1800-4500 rpm and mated to a a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control.
Starting today the 2011 Sonata will get a new version: 2.0T, a model powered by a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged gasoline direct-injection (GDI) engine rated at 274 hp at 6,000 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque from 1800-4500 rpm and mated to a a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control. The 2.0T engine will be available on the SE and Limited trim level.
The Sonata 2.0T will be distinguished from the regular version by a new panoramic sunroof, 18" hyper silver alloy wheels, dual exhaust system and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
This is the first Hyundai vehicle to have both GDI technology and a turbocharger. Sales will begin later this year.
Updated 10/04/2010: Hyundai today announced prices for the 2011 Sonata 2.0T. Prices start at at $24,145 MSRP for the Sonata SE 2.0T and $27,045 for the Sonata Limited 2.0T. The 2.0T engine will be available on the SE and Limited trim level, with the 2.0T SE adding an upgraded fully automatic temperature control system, and the Limited adding the SE’s 18-inch hyper silver alloy wheels, dual exhaust, and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
UPDATE 10/20/2010: Check out our review of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Turbo by clicking here!
Press release after the jump.
A few days ago we reported about Hyundai’s first announcement for the SEMA Show: a Hyundai Genesis Coupe by ARK. Today is time for the second one: a 2011 Sonata Turbo 2.0T tuned by Rides. Official debut will be made on November the 2nd.
The Rides Sonata 2.0T comes with 20-inch concave monobloc wheels, matte pearl white paint and a slew of carbon fiber components including the roof, grill, interior trim, side mirrors and rear diffuser. To complete the design, fabricators will incorporate custom LED fog lights into the bumper.
The interior will be inspired by the Ferrari F430. There will be a strategically placed stitched leather throughout and carbon fiber trim accents. Those strapped into the leather driver’s seat will take pleasure in performance upgrades including turbo and intake enhancements, and a quad tip dual exhaust.
Stay tuned for the official details on the car!
Press release after the jump.
You can’t enjoy the sweet taste of success without figuring into some trouble along the way and that’s what Hyundai is finding out after it has announced that the Hyundai Sonata, the car that has helped the Korean-based manufacturer surge into third place in the midsize car segment, is now being recalled because of a potential steering problem.
According to the National Highway Safety Administration, a recall of 139,500 units is being issued after it was discovered that “the steering column intermediate shaft universal joint connections may have been either improperly assembled or insufficiently tightened.” If not fixed, the problem could lead to a complete separation or compromised attachment of the connections where the driver could lose steering capability and thus increase the risk of a crash happening.
The NHTSA definitely said a lot to wrap our heads around, but it sure looks mighty serious, and if you happen to own a Hyundai Sonata built anytime between December 11, 2009 to September 10, 2010, then you are advised to call the Hyundai Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-633-5151.
We have had nothing but good things to say about the new Hyundai Sonata, expect of course for the recall issues. It won our midsize sedan test, beating out the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, and it has been praised by numerous other media outlets.
With all these awards and great comments, the Sonata began to sell very well. It began to move up the sales ladder and now, it has overtaken the Nissan Altima for third place in the midsize sedan segment, according to The Detroit News. Hyundai sold 21,399 models, just falling behind Honda’s 22,506 mark for the Accord and Toyota’s 30,000 sales for the Camry.
The Korean sedan has been kicking the tails of theFord Fusion and the Chevrolet Malibu for quite some time, but this is the first time that it has beaten a major Japanese machine. There are many reasons for this overtaking. Styling, performance, build quality, and the car’s incredible fuel economy have helped it climb easily up the ladder.
Nobody will ever get excited over a washing machine. It does one job and if it does it well, that’s enough to make you smile for at least a few seconds, but you will never get tingly over it. The same can easily be said of midsize sedans. There will never be one parked outside of a very expensive Beverly Hills country club and no super spy will drive one. Yet, that won’t stop theHyundai Sonata from being a damn good car.
What makes this machine so amazing is the fact that Hyundai wrapped so much into a package that costs so little. You get a 2.4-liter direct-injection four cylinder with variable valve timing, six-speed automatic with manual shift, an Ipod/USB/AUX jacks with Bluetooth, ABS, stability control, power everything, and a warranty that will outlast some of the owners, 10 years/100,000 miles, all for $20,195. That cost saving bundle is more shocking than this year’s San Diego Padres.
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is the sixth version of the sedan in the Korean automaker’s history. The plan with this car is to offer families more for their money than they get with the Honda Accord, the Toyota Camry, the Chevrolet Malibu, and so on. On paper, this is the best car for the money.
Hit the jump to read on.
The people over at Consumer Reports have just finished up a series of tests on a few family sedans. The magazine lined up the Chevrolet Impala, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima, and the Suzuki Kizashi, which we just tested. After the miles and miles of driving and investigating were finished, it was the Hyundai and the Nissan that came out on top.
The four-cylinder Altima and Sonata both got ‘Excellent’ ratings from Consumer Reports, but only the Altima managed to get the ‘Recommended’ badge. The reason that the Sonata failed to get that badge was because it was too new and the testers were unable to determine its reliability.
The Kizashi suffered the same fate. As it’s new as well, the Kizashi failed to get the ‘Recommended’ rating, though it did get an ’Excellent’ score. Sadly, the Impala didn’t do so hot.
The downright awful Chevrolet only managed a ‘Good’ rating, though it wasn’t ‘Recommended’ despite its age. The testers didn’t like its fuel economy, clumsy 19th century four-speed automatic, and the poor build quality. They also used the word "Dated".
Hit the jump to see the press release.
So, we all know by now that the Hyundai Sonata is very good and better than most of the competition. It looks brilliant and can turn heads like a topless woman walking down the street. It has never lacked power, but Hyundai wanted to offer up something fun, for those of us who are speed freaks.
The Hyundai Sonata Turbo is coming and we simply can’t wait. Hyundai say that under the hood of the Turbo will be a 274-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged motor that will allow the car to hit 60 miles per hour in just 6.5 seconds. Nissan Altima 3.5 SR, watch your back.
The power is great, but so is fuel economy. And like the base Sonata, the new Turbo version doesn’t disappoint. The Sonata Turbo, with its turbocharged motor, will be able to get 22 miles per gallon city and 34 on the highway. Mind you, that is on regular-grade fuel, not the premium nonsense that some turbocharged cars have to use. That is mighty impressive if you ask us. Hyundai claims that the fuel economy figures are 16 percent better than the 3.5-liter V6.
Driving impressions should be coming soon and we can’t wait to take this new Hyundai out on the back roads.
Hyundai made an impressive statement with their new models unveiled in the past few years on the automotive market and the new Sonata is no exception. So, inspired by their great success, Hyundai decided it was time to try a convertible version for the new sedan.
Now, since the Chrysler Sebring has received some undesirable attention and the Toyota Solara and Pontiac G6 convertibles are dead, it seems that a future Sonata Convertible will have no competitors on the market.
Most likely - if built - the convertible version will feature the same engines as the sedan: a 200-horsepower 2.4-liter inline-4 as in the SE model or the 274-hp 2.0-liter turbo from the 2.0T model. A power-folding fabric top will be used instead of a retractable hardtop.
Hyundai unveiled the 2011 Sonata hybrid today at the New York Auto Show. It is Hyundai’s first hybrid in the U.S. market and will go on sale later this year.
The 2011 Sonata Hybrid uses Hyundai’s new Hybrid Blue Drive - hybrid system that combines a 2.4-liter Theta II engine (169 hp at 6,000 rpm and 156 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm) with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 30kW (151 lb-ft) electric motor. The electric engine is recharged by 270V lithium polymer rechargeable battery.
Compared to a standard Sonata, the hybrid version is even more aerodynamic thanks to the addition of new bumper fascias, rocker panels, a bold hexagonal grille, eco-spoke wheels and, air dam and aero side sills.
Updated 12/16/2010: Hyundai has announced today prices for the 2011 Sonata Hybrid. The model comes in just two flavors from the factory – the very well-equipped Sonata Hybrid at $25,795, and the incredibly well-equipped, tech-feature-packed Premium version at $30,795.
Press release after the jump.
The New York Auto Show is fixing to be a big event for Hyundai after the Korean manufacturer has already given the green light for the unveiling of a hybrid version of their newly launched 2011 Sonata sedan. With the release of the Hybrid Sonata, Hyundai is banking the assumption that the car will have what it takes to go toe-to-toe with its competitors, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid.
The 2011 Sonata Hybrid will feature a massive lower grille inspired by the Blue-Will Concept. It will be powered by the same 2.4-liter direct injected inline-four as the standard sedan. The engine will be combine with a six-speed automatic gearbox and a 30 kw electric motor.
Stay tuned for the official debut on Wednesday, March 31.
We didn’t notice it at first but a certain high-end couture brand certainly did and they’re dropping the hammer on Hyundai for having the audacity to associate their luxury line to the Korean automaker and its 2011 Sonata.
Apprently, Louis Vuitton wasn’t all that thrilled when Hyundai used their trademark design and symbols on an obviously high-end basketball in one of their Super Bowl commercials. The whole scene happens a little too fast in the commercial so it could’ve escaped even the most astute eyes watching television during the Big Game,
But it turns out, Louis Vuitton has the eyes of the hawk, immediately recognizing their image and liking on the basketball and immediately filed a law suit against Hyundai for copyright infringement. We’re not familiar with the whole lexicon of infringement laws but Louis Vuittions demand of “triple damages, punitive damages, a halt to the alleged infringement, and other remedies” doesn’t sound a whole lot like “Ok, we caught you. Now drop that footage from your ad”.
We’ve still to hear from Hyundai regarding Louis Vuitton’s lawsuit so we don’t know how they plan to address the situation. Nevertheless, we can show you the commercial and the clip-in-question in its entirety so you can see what got LVM all riled up.
Video after the jump
That didn’t take long, did it?
Hyundai’s 2011 Sonata – a car that has only been on sale in the US for two weeks – has received its first recall after complaints started pouring in regarding a malfunction on the front door lock mechanisms.
It’s not really the kind of start Hyundai is expecting with their biggest volume vehicle but after the company began receiving complaints from passengers that the hinge on the front doors of the 2011 Sonata can get stuck in an open position, which would then make them impossible to close. While the likelihood of this happening is extremely rare – one would have to pull the door latch while holding the ‘lock button’, which would then be counterintuitive to common sense – it was serious enough for Hyundai to do some damage control.
According to Hyundai spokesman Miles Johnson, "Anything to do with door latches warrants a recall. New parts are arriving in dealerships now, and the fix should not take more than an hour.”
All in all, over 47,300 Sonatas have been recalled with most of them occurring in the brand’s home country of South Korea. In the US, all the 1,300 Sonatas that have been sold since they came out two weeks ago are also being recalled.
It certainly doesn’t help Hyundai to be receiving this problem soon after the Sonata went on sale, but at least the South Korean brand is moving fast in rectifying the situation.
After the Hyundai Genesis bagged awards left and right for Hyundai, it’s fair to say that the expectations for the burgeoning Korean brand is now at an all-time high. Both the Genesis Coupe and the Genesis Sedan were so far ahead of the game that it became apparent that the onus was now on Hyundai to release a car that could meet – or even exceed – the expectations set by the Genesis.
Now, Hyundai has that car in the form of the 2011 Sonata.
Thanks in large part to the economic crisis and the continued rise in oil prices, car brands have become more inclined in producing fuel efficient vehicles and veering away from the conventional market segment and tapping into the younger and more out-going market. If there were skeptics that initially doubted Hyundai’s new direction, the Genesis certainly did its part to quell all those doubts. And now that the 2011 Sonata, which is one of seven new models Hyundai is planning to launch within the next two years, is on the horizon, Hyundai is hell-bent on keeping its momentum going.
Hyundai has launched a massive advertising campaign for the new 2011 Sonata, in fact it is the biggest so far, with a budget of $160 Million ensuring that we see Sonatas everywhere we look on TV. Lately they made out like bandits during the 2010 Superbowl, airing no less than 8 different commercials. However the Korean automaker has one more spot up their sleeves, but are unsure if they should air it or not, judge for yourself.
Continued after the jump.
When somebody mentions drag racing, chances are you picture two high-powered sports cars duking it out for those ever-so-important high-speed bragging rights. Those types of races are a treat to watch, especially when they’re relatively evenly matched, which would then provide us with a clear idea as to what sports car trumps another in a flat-out straight race from start to finish.
On the other hand, mid-sized sedans aren’t exactly the kinds of cars that you’d find getting involved in a full-throttle drag race, which then makes this drag race video of a 2010 Hyundai Sonata and a 2010 Toyota Camry both perplexing and amusing to watch.
Sure, they belong in the same segment and the tale of the tape would say that this one isn’t some novelty mismatch. But watching this race feels like you’re watching two well-off executives running a 100-meter sprint in their full-on business regalia. It should be entertaining, no doubt, but it doesn’t have the same energy and flashiness as, say, a Nissan GT-R taking on a Corvette ZR1.
Nevertheless, for your amusement, we invite you to watch the video to see which of these mid-sized ‘racers’ ends up reigning supreme.
If there’s one thing we know now about Hyundai heading into Sunday’s Super Bowl, it’s that the car brand is determined to leave a lasting impression to all those watching the sports spectacle just for the commercials.
We’ve already previewed their Brett Favre commercial a few days ago but now we have all of Hyundai’s advertisements, all of which are expected to air at some point during the game.
And by all, we mean all eight of them.
In an attempt at taking full advantage of the enormous viewership generated by the Super Bowl, Hyundai is spending a pretty lump sum of money for the right to air these commercials. Each 30-second spot during the game is expected to cost somewhere in the neighbourhood of $2 million so if all of Hyundai’s eight commercials air at least once during the event, then the South Korean car brand should expect to pay around $16 million for that privilege.
And the best part is, Hyundai doesn’t seem to mind forking over that kind of money. "The Super Bowl is not only a showcase for great football, but also for the most significant advertising, reaching an estimated 95 million viewers in the U.S.," said Joel Ewanick, vice president of marketing, Hyundai Motor America.
"Following in the footsteps of our 2008 and 2009 Super Bowl focus on the new Genesis and Genesis Coupe, we are focusing this year’s Super Bowl campaign on the all-new 2011 Sonata, the most significant new model introduction in our history."
Check out all of Hyundai’s commercials after the jump.
