Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai Sonata
Overview
Manufacturer	Hyundai Motor Company
Production	1985-present
Body and chassis
Class	Mid-size
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	FF layout
Chronology
Predecessor	Hyundai Stellar

The Hyundai Sonata (Korean: 현대 쏘나타) is a mid-size sedan manufactured and marketed globally by Hyundai Motor Company. From the sixth generation onwards, it is known as the i45 in the Australian and New Zealand markets.

First generation (Y, 1985–1987)

First generation
Overview
Production	1985-1987
Assembly	Ulsan, Korea
Body and chassis
Related	Hyundai Stellar
Powertrain
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,579 mm (101.5 in)
Length	4,578 mm (180.2 in)
Width	1,755 mm (69.1 in)
Height	1,362 mm (53.6 in)

See also: Hyundai Stellar

The first Sonata was only for Korea domestic market. The vehicle was unveiled in South Korea in November 1985.

Engine choices include 1.8L or 2.0L I4. The body was based on the Hyundai Stellar.

Second generation (Y2, 1988–1994)

Second generation
Overview
Production	1988-1994
Assembly	Bromont, Quebec, Canada Ulsan, Korea
Designer	Giorgetto Giugiaro
Body and chassis
Related	Mitsubishi Galant Σ
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L (131 hp) I4 Mitsubishi 4G63 2.4 L (110 hp) I4 Mitsubishi 4G64 3.0 L (146 hp) V6 Mitsubishi 6G72
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,650 mm (104.3 in)
Length	4,680 mm (184.3 in)
Width	1,750 mm (68.9 in)
Height	1,410 mm (55.5 in)

The Y2 Sonata was part of Hyundai's expansion in North America after the success of the Excel. It was introduced in South Korea on June 1, 1988. It was then introduced in Canada in September 1987 as a 1988 model, and in 1988, as a 1989 model in the United States. The exterior was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign. The vehicle received a mid-term facelift in 1991. It replaced the Stellar as Hyundai's large family car. Sonatas were built in Ulsan, Korea, and in Bromont, Quebec.

The Sonata was designed by Hyundai and featured Mitsubishi's engineering, including the platform from Galant Σ and its 2.4 L 110 hp (82 kW) Sirius I4 engine as used in American-market models. A 3.0 L V6 based on the Mitsubishi 6G72 arrived in 1990. The U.S. model received the 2.0 L engine for the 1992, replacing the original 2.4 L engine.

Trim levels in the US were:

• GL (2.4 and 2.0 engines)
• GLS (3.0 engine)

• 
  1990-1991 Hyundai Sonata (Canada)
• 
  1992-1994 Hyundai Sonata (US)

Third generation (Y3, 1995–1998)

Third generation
Overview
Also called	Hyundai Sonata 2 (South Korea) Hyundai Sonica (Italy)
Production	1994-1996
Assembly	Ulsan, Korea
Powertrain
Engine	1.8 L I4 SOHC 70 kW (95 PS; 94 hp) 2.0 L I4 SOHC 77 kW (105 PS; 103 hp) 4G63 2.0 L I4 DOHC 102 kW (139 PS; 137 hp) 4G63 16 valve 3.0 L V6 107 kW (145 PS; 143 hp) 6G72
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Length	4,700 mm (185.0 in)
Width	1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height	1,405 mm (55.3 in)

The Y3 Sonata debuted in 1994, as a 1995 model. The base engine in most markets was a 2.0 L 77 kW (105 PS; 103 hp) Sirius I4, but there was a 3.0 L, 107 kW (145 PS; 143 hp) Mitsubishi V6 option in some markets. This generation continued after the demise of the Bromont, Quebec plant in September 1993. After that, all Sonatas would be built in Korea, until the opening of the Beijing Hyundai plant in December 2002.

Facelift (1996–1998)

Updated third generation
Overview
Also called	Hyundai Sonata 3 (South Korea) Hyundai Sonica (Italy)
Production	1996-1998
Assembly	Ulsan, Korea Asan, Korea
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L I4 SOHC 70 kW (95 PS; 94 hp) 4G63 2.0 L I4 DOHC 92 kW (125 PS; 123 hp) 4G63 16 valve 3.0 L V6 107 kW (145 PS; 143 hp) 6G72
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Length	4,700 mm (185.0 in)
Width	1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height	1,405 mm (55.3 in)

A facelift for the Sonata (Y3 facelift) in 1996 saw modifications front and rear. The four-cylinder engine was up to 92 kW (125 PS; 123 hp) that year as well.

Fourth generation (EF, 1999–2005)

Fourth generation
Overview
Also called	Hyundai EF Sonata (South Korea) Hyundai Sonica (Italy)
Production	1998-2001
Assembly	Asan, Korea Izhevsk, Russia
Body and chassis
Related	Hyundai Santa Fe Kia Optima/Magentis
Powertrain
Engine	2.0L dohc 136hp 2.4 L 138 hp (103 kW) DOHC Sirius I4 2.5 L 170 hp (127 kW) Hyundai Delta V6
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Length	4,710 mm (185.4 in)
Width	1,815 mm (71.5 in)
Height	1,410 mm (55.5 in)

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

Engines were 2.0L 136 hp, 2.4 L 138 hp (103 kW) Hyundai Sirius and a 2.5 L 170 hp (127 kW) Hyundai Delta V6. A special 10-year warranty was available. Known serious problems include a failure of input and output speed sensors on automatic transmission models equipped with the V6.

• 
  2000 Hyundai Sonata (Australia)
• 
  2001 Hyundai Sonata (US)

Facelift (2001–present, 2001-2005 in USA)

Updated fourth generation
Overview
Also called	Hyundai New EF Sonata (South Korea) Hyundai Sonata Gold (India) Beijing-Hyundai Sonata Hyundai Sonica (Italy)
Production	2001-present
Assembly	Asan, Korea Beijing, China Taganrog, Russia (TagAZ)
Body and chassis
Related	Hyundai Santa Fe Kia Optima/Magentis
Powertrain
Engine	2.4 L 149 hp (111 kW) DOHC Sirius I4 2.7 L 173 hp (129 kW) Hyundai Delta V6
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Length	4,745 mm (186.8 in)
Width	1,820 mm (71.7 in)
Height	1,420 mm (55.9 in)

The 2002 model featured the all-aluminum, DOHC 2.7L Hyundai Delta V6 powered the Sonata with 173 bhp (129 kW). It also featured the same Sirius II 4 cylinder which at the time made 138 hp (111 kW), 157 ft-lb (213 N·m) of torque. Sales reached 104,000 for 2004. Also, the previous EF models have their rear vehicle registration plates repositioned from the bottom bumper to the above hatch.

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

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

This generation of Sonata is still being built (since 2002) and sold in China as of September 2006, by Beijing Hyundai Co. and in Russia by TagAZ. Cause of licence problem TagAZ is not producing Sonata since 06/2010. In 08/2010 production will be possibly continued under new name "TagAutoprom".

Fifth generation (NF, 2005–2010)

Fifth generation
Overview
Also called	Beijing-Hyundai NF Yu Xiang Beijing-Hyundai Sonata Yu Xiang Beijing-Hyundai Sonata Ling Xiang Hyundai NF Sonata (Russia) Hyundai Sonata CVVT-i (Malaysia) Hyundai Sonata Transform (Facelift) Hyundai Sonata Embera (India) Hyundai Sonica (Italy)
Production	2005-2010 ????-present (Egypt)
Assembly	Asan, Korea Montgomery, Alabama, United States Chennai, India Beijing, China İzmit, Turkey (Hyundai Assan) Cairo, Egypt (Ghabbour Group)
Body and chassis
Related	Hyundai Grandeur/Azera Hyundai Santa Fe Hyundai Veracruz/ix55 Kia Optima/Magentis/Lotze Kia Carens/Rondo Kia Sorento
Powertrain
Engine	2.4 L, 163–175 hp (122–130 kW), I4 3.3 L 237-249 hp V6 2.0 L CRDi
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed manual (2.0 CRDI) 5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,730 mm (107.5 in)
Length	4,800 mm (189.0 in) Sonata Ling Xiang:4,815 mm (189.6 in)
Width	1,830 mm (72.0 in)
Height	1,475 mm (58.1 in)

The NF Sonata was launched in August 2004 in Korea, based on a new platform created from the project NF. The company's first all-aluminum I4 engine, dubbed Theta, debuted in the new Sonata. Engine choices at launch were a 2.4L I4 rated 164 bhp (122 kW) at 5800 rpm and a 3.3L V6 rated 237 bhp (177 kW) V6. The diesel version was used as a taxicab in Singapore. Diesel versions are available in Europe and New Zealand.

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

Classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency‎ as a large car, the fourth generation was Template:Auto in longer and taller and Template:Auto in wider than the previous generation. Standard features included anti-lock braking system/electronic stability control/traction control system as well as six airbags (driver/front passenger front and side, and side curtain).

Safety

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

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

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

2006 Hyundai Sonata by NHTSA:

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

Facelift (2008–2010)

2009 Hyundai Sonata GLS (US)

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

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

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

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

The 2.4L Theta II engine was rated 175 bhp (130 kW) at 6000 rpm and Template:Auto lbft (168 bhp (125 kW) for PZEV model) and the 3.3L Lambda V6 was rated 249 bhp (186 kW) at 6000 rpm and Template:Auto lbft at 4500 rpm. Fuel efficiency is EPA rated at 22 mpg_‑US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg_‑imp)/32 mpg_‑US (7.4 L/100 km; 38 mpg_‑imp) for the I4 and 19 mpg_‑US (12 L/100 km; 23 mpg_‑imp)/29 mpg_‑US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg_‑imp) for the V6. The base model GLS is available with a manual five speed transmission. GLS, SE and Limited models feature a newly available, manually-shiftable 5-speed automatic transmission marketed as "Shiftronic."

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

In Singapore, a 2.2L CRDi turbo diesel powered version is widely used in the country's taxi industry.

Hyundai Sonata Ling Xiang (Sonata NFC)

Beijing Hyundai launched a redesigned Sonata called the Ling Xiang for the Chinese market with an updated exterior and revised rear seating.

Engine choices include 2.0L or 2.4L engines.

Sixth generation (YF, 2010—present)

Sixth generation
Overview
Also called	Hyundai i45 (Singapore, Australia, New Zealand)
Production	2010-present
Assembly	Asan, Korea Montgomery, Alabama, United States
Body and chassis
Related	Kia Optima/Magentis/K5
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L Theta 162 hp (121 kW), I4 2.0 L Theta Turbo 274 hp (204 kW), I4 2.4 L Theta 178 hp (133 kW), I4 2.4 L Theta GDi, 200 hp (150 kW), I4
Transmission	6-speed automatic 6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,795 mm (110.0 in)
Length	4,820 mm (189.8 in)
Width	1,835 mm (72.2 in)
Height	1,470 mm (57.9 in)

The YF models were originally developed in 2005, with a development cost of ₩450 billion (US$ 372 million*). Sales of the vehicle in South Korea began on 2 September 2009, before the production vehicle's South Korean launch. In South Korea, The 6th Sonata delivers its 2-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine (Max output 165 PS (121 kW; 163 hp), Max torque of 20.2㎏·m). Its fuel economy is more than 11% improved. For the US market, Hyundai uses their new direct injection 2.4 liter four cylinder engine. With direct injection technology this new engine will improve gas mileage over previous models and produces 201 PS (148 kW; 198 hp) at 6300 rpm and 25.5 kg⋅m (250 N⋅m; 184 lb⋅ft) at 4250 rpm. It is part of the Theta II engine lineup. Furthermore, all engines are offered with a new six-speed automatic transmission. The 6th Sonata is built on hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel.

Korean trimlines include the Grand, Prime, Premier Beige, Premier, Top, and Sport models. Exclusive options for the Korean model includes a three-piece panoramic moonroof, electroluminescent instrumentation, fender-mounted turn signals, and a special Premier Beige model. Upgraded stereo systems use a JBL audio system, and certain navigation packages come with a telecommunications system with Hyundai's Mozen system.

The US version of the new Sonata was unveiled at the 2009 LA Auto Show. As with the previous model, a GLS, SE, and Limited trims are offered. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the GLS, and a six-speed automatic is available. Differences with the Korean model include differences with the GLS model, which features a body-colored grille and door handles, and different steel wheel covers. Limited models and optional stereos on the GLS and SE now have "Dimension" audio systems, and the Limited trim can has an optional Infinity stereo. Limited models have standard front and rear heated seats; the first use of them in this segment. Additional differences include a redesigned straight leather shifter as opposed to the gated one on Korean models, different cupholders, and the addition of an extra exterior color choice, Indigo Blue Pearl. The 6th Hyundai Sonata awarded 'Top Safety Pick' from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the US.

Highly paid advertisements in the Super Bowl XLIV were used to market to new Sonata in the U.S. One commercial proclaimed that the Sonata's paint quality is better than that of the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. The steeply raked front and rear glass give the Sonata a slightly coupe-like silhouette, much like that of the Mercedes-Benz CLS and the Volkswagen CC.

Sales are expected to begin in late January to early February 2010.

Safety

2011–present Hyundai Sonata earns top ratings.

Top Safety Pick Award in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests

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

Later release version of Model Year 2011 (current production models): by NHTSA under 2010 new test rules
2011 Sonata and 2011 BMW 5 series are only vehicles rated Five Star under new rules as of Oct 2010

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

Early release version of model year 2011 (no longer in production):

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

Hybrid version (2011— )

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (US)

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

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sales will begin by the end of 2010. The Sonata Hybrid drivetrain combines a 2.4-liter engine with six-speed automatic transmission, and a 30kW electric motor and lightweight lithium polymer batteries to produce a full gasoline-electric hybrid with 37 miles per US gallon (6.4 L/100 km; 44 mpg_‑imp) in the city and 39 miles per US gallon (6.0 L/100 km; 47 mpg_‑imp) on the highway. This powertrain will be share by the 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid.

The 2011 Sonata Hybrid was nominated as one of the five finalists for the 2011 Green Car of the Year to be awarded by the Green Car Journal by mid November 2010, competing with two plug-in electric vehicles, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Volt.

2.0T Turbo Version

To replace the V6 power option for the Hyundai Sonata in certain markets, Hyundai has developed a turbo powered 2.0litre engine that has direct injection and is intercooled. Hyundai says the engine will output 274 horsepower (204 kW) and 269 lb⋅ft (365 N⋅m) of torque while achieving an efficiency rating of 34 mpg_‑US (6.9 L/100 km; 41 mpg_‑imp) highway, beating the specs provided by the 3.3 litre Lambda V6 offered in the previous model. The new model is badged as the 2.0T and is available on the SE or Limited trimlines. SE turbo models get standard dual zone climate control, and Limited models additionally get the steering wheel paddle shifters, chrome-tipped dual exhaust, and 18" wheels that are shared with standard and turbo SE models.

Awards

The Sonata has received the following awards:

• "Interior of the Year", 2009 Sonata, Ward's Auto World, category: Best Redesign.
• "Best Vehicles for $25,000 or Less" in 2008 Consumer Reports
• "Top Picks 2008" in 2008 Consumer Reports
• "Best New Family Car (under $35,000)" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year awards.
• Kiplinger’s Personal Finance “Best in Class” in the under $20,000 category – 2007 Sonata: Kiplinger’s Personal Finance 2007 Car Buyer’s Guide "Best of 2007 Cars" March 2007.
• Cars.com - 2007 Sonata: Best Deal For Small Families
• "Consumers Digest Best Buy" - 2006 Sonata
• NHTSA 5-Star Crash Rating – 2006 Sonata: Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact airbags (SABs).
• Named "Best Bet" in Jack Gillis' The Car Book 2006 - 2006 Sonata
• Kiplinger’s Personal Finance “Best in Class” in the $18,000 to $23,000 category – 2006 Sonata: Kiplinger’s Personal Finance 2006 Car Buyer’s December 2005.
• Kiplinger’s Personal Finance “Best New Car” in the $18,000 to $23,000 category – 2006 Sonata: Kiplinger’s Personal Finance 2006 Car Buyer’s December 2005.
• MotorWeek’s “Driver’s Choice Award” for Best Family Sedan – 2006 Sonata
• Hyundai owners in North America placed the Sonata at the top of their classes in AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA) research. The Sonata was the highest ranked Premium Mid-Size Car, beating out the segment-defining Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
• 2011 Hyundai Sonata represents the lowest depreciation in the midsize car segment in ALG Residual Value Index. The 2011 Sonata even outperforms comparably-equipped 2010 model year Honda Accord.
• 2011 Hyundai Sonata Named IIHS Top Safety Pick
• NADAguides.com Awards 2011 Hyundai Sonata 'Car of the Month' for 2010 March
• 2011 Hyundai Sonata awarded Five Star by NHTSA the 2010 new test rules

External links

• Official site of Hyundai Sonata (Global)
• Official site of Hyundai Sonata (US)