2010 Hyundai Sonata YF could be released in the Indian market
Hyundai Motor Company, which had last year introduced an all-new Sonata in the South Korean market, may also consider the same model for the Indian market. The sixth-generation 2010 Sonata adopts Hyundai’s new ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language, boasts outstanding performance with the segment-leading safety features and fuel efficiency. The Seoul-based company is already accepting bookings for the car in South Korea, aims to sell as many as 450,000 units of the new Sonata per annum, worldwide, from 2011. In addition, Hyundai has also presented the gasoline version with a 2.4 liter Theta II GDI engine, which will be offered as a standard engine in the U.S. market. The new Sonata’s price ranges from 21.3 million Won to 25.95 million Won (US$ 17,600 to US$ 21,450). It is widely believed that Sonata YF, if launched in India, will be assembled at its plant in Chennai with the CKD kits being imported from South Korea.
The company spokesperson, when contacted, said, “Although we have plans to launch a new model every year for the next few years, we have yet not decided on the Sonata YF. We will make an announcement once we take a call. Right now, we are exploring Santa Fe’s feasibility.”
Thenew Sonata, based on a new platform delivers powerful performance through its 2-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine (Max output 165ps, Max torque of 20.2 ㎏·m). Delivering the highest fuel economy in its segment at 12.8 kilometres per liter, fuel economy is more than 11 per cent improved compared with today’s Sonata. Furthermore, all engines are offered with a new six-speed automatic transmission for heightened performance.
According to Hyundai Motor Company’s release, “The outer design of the new Sonata exudes a voluminous look that creates character through the refined and harmonized lines. The interior has a dynamic look that matches the exterior while not compromising comfort or convenience. The Sonata is available in nine exterior colors, from Remington Red to Blue Black to Espresso, satisfying the diverse tastes of younger customers. To meet the most stringent automotive safety and crash requirements, the Sonata is built with hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel while featuring six standard airbags.”
In addition, safety has been upgraded with standard Vehicle Dynamic Control including Hill-start Assist Control and Brake Assist System functions.The new Sonata comes with a three-piece panoramic sunroof, giving a sense of openness and freedom as well as a stylish look. The Parking Guide System (PGS) allows drivers to avoid obstacles during parallel parking or when driving in reverse. The Dimension premium sound system offers high-quality sound in three types of modes to satisfy customers’ wide-ranging musical tastes.
The Mozen system, a telematics service that debuted in 2003 in Korea, has evolved to become more sophisticated, offering more diverse and upgraded multi-media and IT functions. The newly applied Mozen Premium Wide Navigation system provides drivers with a faster communication service through the third-generation WCDMA wireless network. For two years, it also offers free safety services such as an SOS and anti-theft tracking service. The audio-visual functions have been upgraded with the 8-inch wide screen and JBL Premium Sound system.
In the new Sonata, Hyundai offers a wireless vehicle monitoring service another industry first-- through the Mozen Autocare service, linking the vehicle’s electronic control systems to a monitoring canter. The centre checks various components for errors, informs the driver of the analysis, and provides directions to nearby service centres, saving time for drivers. Hyundai is confident that the new Sonata, with vastly improved features, will attract and satisfy new as well as current customers. The added specifications are as follows: VDC, Electronic Parking Brake, Amplitude Selective Dampers, High Mounted Stop Lamp, Rear Heated Seats.