Hyundai has revealed more details about the 2020 Hyundai Sonata ahead of its Australian arrival in the second half of this year. The new model showcases a number of fresh technologies for the nameplate, as well as some new engine options.
First unveiled earlier this month, the 2020 Hyundai Sonata shows off a brand new “Sensuous Sportiness” design language. It adopts the fashionable four-door coupe theme, with a long bonnet and tight rear end providing an elegant yet gracious flow. Aerodynamics have been improved as a result, leaving a coefficient drag of just 0.27.
Underneath it all is a new platform which promises increased strength and reduced weight. The new platform features a “multi-load path structure” constructed using hot stamping and high tensile steel. The company says the structure is able to absorb energy better during a collision, improving safety.
The new platform also helps the Sonata grow in size, now standing 45mm longer, with 35mm added to the wheelbase for improved in-car space and comfort. Width is also increased by 25mm, and the body stands 30mm lower for a sleeker profile.
Hyundai is introducing a number of advanced technologies with the new model, including many driving assist features such as Level 2 autonomous driving capability. There’s also forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, Safety Exit Assist which minimises the chance of opening a door into approaching traffic, Lane Follow Assist with auto steering between 0 and 145km/h, and a new surround-view monitor with four external cameras.
Hyundai is also introducing a new Remote Smart Parking Assist feature which basically allows the user to prompt the vehicle to drive out of or into tight spaces using a smart key. The user can drive the car forwards or backwards without being in the car.
Speaking of the ‘smart key’, it supports a digital key via the use of a smartphone app, using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. Users can operate various aspects of the car right on the phone, including locking and unlocking. This also comes with a conventional smart key and card type key for other uses, such as valet parking and garage repair shop instances.
Other interesting technologies that are arriving for the 2020 Sonata include Walk Away Lock, automatically locking the car when the owner walks away, as well as a full head-up display system, Shift By Wire gear selections for smooth operation, and high-end sound systems including a Bose 12-speaker unit with Bose Centrepoint and Bose SurroundStage technology.
The interior showcases a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver, with customisable layouts and driving modes, while the dash incorporates a 10.3-inch high-definition infotainment touch-screen with split-screen functionality.
As for the powertrains, Hyundai has confirmed the new model will be offered with two new Smartstream units; the G1.6 T-GDI and the G2.5 GDi. The 1.6-litre turbo unit produces 134kW and 264Nm, while the G2.5 GDi unit produces 142kW and 245Nm. The 2.5 uses cooled EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) and optimised ITMS cooling (intelligent engine cooling). Both come matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive.
Hyundai Australia confirms the new model will go on sale locally “in the second half of 2019”. Prices and final specs are yet to be confirmed for our market.
