2011 Hyundai Sonata: Stylish, Affordable, Roomy, Efficient

Fluidic sculpture new design language for Hyundai models

2011 Hyundai Sonata

On Wednesday at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, Hyundai Motors rolled out the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, the sixth generation of this five passenger midsize sedan model. Incorporating what Hyundai now calls its fluidic sculpture design language, the all new Sonata will go into production in Alabama this month and begin to arrive in Hyundai dealerships in January. The striking design of the Sonata is a game changer for the Korean automaker. But that shouldn’t be a surprise for most people who follow this brand and have witnessed Hyundai going from strength to strength over the past few years. Most telling of late has been both the Genesis sedan and Genesis coupe, both models receiving rave reviews and numerous awards. In addition, the Hyundai Assurance plan has helped draw attention to the Korean brand, offering skittish customers an opportunity to return their car in the event of losing their jobs. That program was rolled out during last season’s Super Bowl, bringing Hyundai to tens of millions of viewers all at once.

Four Cylinders Only

Making a clear departure from what its competitors are doing, Hyundai has decided not to offer a V6 engine with the 2011 Sonata. Instead, the company is relying upon new technology which makes its 2.4L Theta I4 engine lighter but more powerful than previous generation motors. Moreover, a turbo version of that engine will also be made available and Hyundai’s first hybrid model will also grace the Sonata line. The Sonata hybrid will feature a lithium-ion battery pack instead of the nickel-cadmium powerpacks found in so many of today’s models including the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, Toyota Prius, and Honda Civic, among others.

Segment Leading Fuel Economy

Hyundai says that the base Sonata will deliver 23 mpg city, 35 mpg highway which will help it edge out the base Ford Fusion for segment honors. The Fusion delivers 23/34 economy; Hyundai hasn’t said if the hybrid Sonata will match the Fusion Hybrid’s 41/36 mpg, however. Six-speed automatic and manual transmission will be offered with the Sonata, matching the current industry benchmark offered by both Ford and Chevrolet. Toyota and Honda still feature 5-speed transmissions. Bluetooth; XM Satellite Radio with navigation and data services; TouchScreen navigation; and iPod connectivity is standard across the model line.

Safety and Price

Customers will note a number of important safety features with the 2011 Sonata including six airbags; ABS with brake assist; four-wheel disc brakes; electronic brake distribution; and more. Perhaps most surprising about the next generation Sonata is its price: the base model will retail for under $20,000. Source: Hyundai Motor America