Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[LA 2009: All-new 2011 Hyundai Sonata to come in regular, turbo and hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-yf-regular-turbo-hybrid-los-angeles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-yf-regular-turbo-hybrid-los-angeles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-yf-regular-turbo-hybrid-los-angeles/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Hyundai Sonata - Click above for high-res image gallery

Not counting full-size trucks, the meat-and-potatoes of the American car market remains the mid-size family sedan. For the past two decades, the undisputed kings of this particular segment have been the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, especially since the Ford Taurus fell off its pedestal right around 1992. Many have tried to knock the two Japanese heavyweights (now figuratively and literally) off the hill - and almost as many have failed. And while those two titans have remained atop the sales charts, other family sedans have met with considerable success. Perhaps most notably, the Hyundai Sonata, an unassuming car that has found its way into 1.2 million homes.

With beaming grins and news of Hyundai being named the most fuel efficient brand in America, Hyundai's brass took the wraps off their new-for-2011 Sonota. What strikes you instantly is the Sonata's curvy, slightly-hefty, almost organic shape. Hyundai calls the design language "Fluidic Sculpture," and while not quite as in-your-face as Mazda's signature Nagare styling language, we have a feeling it might prove nearly as polarizing. That's not to say the new Sonata is bad looking or ugly. But it is highly-stylized in a mid-size market that tends to reward the bland and middle-of-the-road.

But Fluidic Sculpture is what we've got - and not just on the Sonata. Hyundai's North American President and CEO John Krafcik promises that this design language will define the brand moving forward. Not surprisingly, Fluidic Sculpture originated right here in Southern California in Hyundai's Irvine design center. We really appreciate some of the finely wrought detailing, such as the grille, door handles, headlights and taillights (though those taillights appear to be lifted directly from the BMW 3 Series). We're just a wee bit uncertain of how the new Sonata will play in Peoria.

As for the non-design aspects of the 2011 Sonata, the big news is under the hood. Gone is the 3.3-liter V6, or for that matter, any V6. Instead Hyundai is offering consumers a choice of three four-cylinder engines. The first is a 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDI) motor called the Theta II good for 198 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. That much power from a 2.4-liter essentially puts the Sonata at the head of the four-cylinder class. But what about those pesky V6 cars? No problem, as Hyundai will launching a turbocharged version of the GDI Theta II. If direct-injection and turbocharging sounds a little EcoBoosty to you, well, it is. And that's a very, very good thing.

But what about hybrids? There will be a hybrid version of the Theta II. Hyundai's calling the technology Blue Drive,and it sounds pretty spiffy. Unlike other hybrids that use nickel hydride (or starting soon, lithium ion) batteries, the Hyundai system will use lithium polymer technology. According to Hyundai, lithium polymer leapfrogs lithium ion battery tech and within five years, the entire industry will switch to LP. Only Hyundai will be putting the tech on sale within the year. Big claims to be sure, but Hyundai's been defying conventions and expectations for quite a while now. Look for the Alabama-built Sonata to start at less than $20,000 and go on sale this January. Official press release after the jump, Jonny-on-the-spot photos below.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Hyundai Sonata


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: All-new 2011 Hyundai Sonata to come in regular, turbo and hybrid

LA 2009: All-new 2011 Hyundai Sonata to come in regular, turbo and hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Hyundai Sonata2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid2011HyundaiSonata2011HyundaiSonataHybrid2011HyundaiSonotaHybridFluidic SculptureFluidicSculpturehybridHyundaiHyundai SonataHyundai Sonata HybridHyundaiSonataHyundaiSonataHybridLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA motor showLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLAautoshow2009LaMotorShowLaShowlos angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowSonatasonata hybridSonataHybridWed, 02 Dec 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: 2011 Hyundai Sonata debuts with style, four-cylinder only and less weight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-at-2009-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Hyundai Sonata SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

Cheap and inexpensive are not necessarily synonymous. Inexpensive is generally considered a positive thing. Cheap? Not so much. Hyundai automobiles have always been relatively inexpensive compared to their direct competitors. In recent years, the Korean company has worked extremely hard to rid itself of any talk of cheapness by improving quality, introducing an unprecedented 10-year/100,000 mile warranty and engaging in some remarkably clever marketing campaigns.

It wasn't always so. Way back in 1983, Hyundai first entered the North American market when the Pony hatchback went on sale in Canada. Two years later, the replacement for the Pony, dubbed "Excel" went on sale in the United States. To say that the launch did not go well would be the understatement of the decade. While those early Hyundai models were indeed cheap, the company nearly met the same fate in this market as Yugo.

Unlike the abysmal Yugo, Hyundai persevered. The company kept redesigning its cars, making each subsequent generation better than the last and extending its warranties to generate confidence in its products. More than two decades later, Hyundai is introducing its latest challenger, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, into what is arguably the most fiercely contested segment in the U.S. market - that of the family sedan. Check out our high-res galleries below, and then click through to the jump to read more of our impressions and check out Hyundai's press release and specifications.


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading LA 2009: 2011 Hyundai Sonata debuts with style, four-cylinder only and less weight

LA 2009: 2011 Hyundai Sonata debuts with style, four-cylinder only and less weight originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai sonata2011 Sonata2011HyundaiSonata2011SonatahyundaiHyundai SonataHyundaiSonatala 2009la auto showla showLA2009LA2009hyundaiLA2009hyundaisonataLAAutoshowLAAutoshow2009LaShowLos AngelesLos Angeles Auto ShowLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowSonataWed, 02 Dec 2009 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hyundai 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder makes 200 hp in 2011 Sonata]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/hyundais-new-2-4l-gdi-four-cylinder-hits-up-to-200hp-in-sonata/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/hyundais-new-2-4l-gdi-four-cylinder-hits-up-to-200hp-in-sonata/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/hyundais-new-2-4l-gdi-four-cylinder-hits-up-to-200hp-in-sonata/#commentsFiled under: ,

Hyundai 2.4L Theta-II GDI - Click above for high res image gallery

When Hyundai's all new Sonata goes on sale early in 2010, it will arrive in U.S. showrooms with only one available engine, a thoroughly revamped version of the 2.4-liter Theta-II four cylinder. The new engine is Hyundai's first production powerplant with gasoline direct injection, but John Juriga, director of powertrains at the Hyundai-Kia Technical Center (HATCI), promised it wouldn't be the last. Juriga told a media briefing at HATCI recently that Hyundai was planning to roll out GDI across its lineup in the coming years.

For now though we have to be content with the new Sonata engine, which is now more powerful than the engine it replaces with 200 hp and 186 pound-feet of torque. The basic internal dimensions are carried over from the 2010 port-injected edition, with bore and stroke of 88 mm x 97 mm for a total displacement of 2,359 cc. The new fuel delivery system has allowed the engineering team to bump the compression ratio from 10.5:1 up to 11.3:1. Like other direct injected engines, the charge cooling effect of injecting the fuel in into the high temperature compressed aid allows the elevated compression without the risk of knock. Read on to learn more about the first GDI Hyundai engine.


Gallery: Hyundai 2.4L Theta-II GDI


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading New Hyundai 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder makes 200 hp in 2011 Sonata

New Hyundai 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder makes 200 hp in 2011 Sonata originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai sonata2011HyundaiSonatadirect injecteddirect injectionDirectInjectedDirectInjectionHyundaihyundai direct injectionhyundai sonatahyundai theta ii gdiHyundaiDirectInjectionHyundaiSonataHyundaiThetaIiGdisonatatheta ii gdiThetaIiGdiMon, 23 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai launches first direct-inject four-cylinder engine, replaces V6 in new Sonata]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/hyundai-launches-first-direct-inject-four-cylinder-engine-repla/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/hyundai-launches-first-direct-inject-four-cylinder-engine-repla/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/hyundai-launches-first-direct-inject-four-cylinder-engine-repla/#commentsFiled under: ,

testing Hyundai's Theta II DGI engine - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the swoopy new 2011 Sonata goes into production at Hyundai's plant in Alabama early next year, it won't offer a V6 engine anymore, but it will get the company's first ever direct-injected engine. This week in South Korea, Hyundai took the wraps off its 2.4-liter Theta II GDI four-cylinder. Like similar engines from other automakers, Hyundai's engineers have taken advantage of the charge cooling effect of direct injection by boosting the compression ratio to 11.3:1. As a result the engine produces 198 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm in Korean spec.

The direct injection system is setup to use a two-pulse strategy similar to modern common rail diesels. The initial smaller pulse is ignited by the spark plug and then followed by a second larger pulse as the piston begins its downward stroke. GM uses a similar strategy for its 2.4-liter DI Ecotec because it helps warm the engine faster, heating the catalytic converter and reducing emissions. The GDI Theta II produces from 7-12 percent more torque across its rev range than the port-injected version of the same engine. Efficiency should also improve by about 10 percent although the final certification figures aren't complete yet. The Theta II also gets continuously variable valve timing on both camshafts to round out its high tech upgrades. In addition to the regular Sonata sedan, this engine will likely also be used for the new Sonata hybrid when it debuts late in 2010.


Gallery: Hyundai 2.4L direct injected Theta II


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai launches first direct-inject four-cylinder engine, replaces V6 in new Sonata

Hyundai launches first direct-inject four-cylinder engine, replaces V6 in new Sonata originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>direct injecteddirect injectionDirectInjectedDirectInjectiongasoline direct injectionGasolineDirectInjectionHyundaihyundai direct injectionhyundai sonatahyundai theta ii gdiHyundaiDirectInjectionHyundaiSonataHyundaiThetaIiGdisonataTue, 17 Nov 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: 2011 Hyundai Sonata won't offer a V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/report-2011-hyundai-sonata-wont-offer-a-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/report-2011-hyundai-sonata-wont-offer-a-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/report-2011-hyundai-sonata-wont-offer-a-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Hyundai Sonata - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just a few days ago we saw the first images of the all-new Hyundai Sonata as it was introduced in South Korea. The Korean press release only mentioned two powertrain options, a 2.0-liter four cylinder and a 2.4-liter direct-injected four. No reference was made to a V6 such as the one offered in the current-generation Sonata. Ward's reports that they have been told even the North American-market Sonata will go four-cylinder only.

The current Sonata V6 only accounts for just 15 percent of total sales, and with the DI engine becoming standard in the new model, the larger engine likely be even less popular. We checked with Hyundai spokesman Dan Bedore, who responded "We have officially declined to comment further on that report." Bedore did tell us that further announcements would be coming at either the Los Angeles or Detroit Auto Show when the US model is revealed. The one thing we do know for sure is that a Sonata hybrid is coming later in 2010. Thanks for the tip, Derrick!

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Sonata (KDM version)


[Source:Ward's Auto World]

REPORT: 2011 Hyundai Sonata won't offer a V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 hyundai sonata2011 hyundai sonata hybrid2011 hyundai sonata v62011HyundaiSonata2011HyundaiSonataHybrid2011HyundaiSonataV6falsehyundaihyundai sonatahyundai sonata 2011hyundai sonata v6HyundaiSonataHyundaiSonata2011HyundaiSonataV6sonatav6Sun, 27 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: New Hyundai Sonata gets three commercials for Korean audience]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/video-new-hyundai-sonata-gets-three-commercials-for-korean-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/video-new-hyundai-sonata-gets-three-commercials-for-korean-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/video-new-hyundai-sonata-gets-three-commercials-for-korean-audi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

South Korean Hyundai Sonata commericals -- Click above to view the videos after the jump

Hyundai's South-Korean-market ad agency has been hard at work cooking up commercials for its latest offering: the 2010 Sonata. Apparently there were no current references that could describe this latest sedan, so they went back a few hundred years for help -- Renaissance artists, Italian musical terminology, and three competing complementary philosophies are used to tell the story. The "Art of Technology" is no simple tale, you see. Follow the jump for the video, and check out the high-res gallery of photos below.


Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Sonata


[Source: Straight Line]

Continue reading VIDEO: New Hyundai Sonata gets three commercials for Korean audience

VIDEO: New Hyundai Sonata gets three commercials for Korean audience originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 hyundai2010 hyundai sonata2010 sonata2010Hyundai2010HyundaiSonata2010Sonatabudgetfalsehyundaihyundai sonataHyundaiSonatasedansonatavideoMon, 21 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Hyundai reveals 2010 Sonata in Korea]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/officially-official-hyundai-reveals-2010-sonata-in-korea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/officially-official-hyundai-reveals-2010-sonata-in-korea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/officially-official-hyundai-reveals-2010-sonata-in-korea/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Hyundai Sonata - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai has just unveiled its all new Sonata mid-sized sedan in its home market of South Korea, and after months of spy shots, it's new look is a surprise to no one. Nonetheless, the new Sonata is a major departure from the current strong selling but incredibly bland model. The new one follows the current design trend towards more coupe-like styling with a sweeping shape, arched roof line and short decklid very reminiscent of the Volkswagen CC.

The home market version gets a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 165 horsepower that's rated at 30.1 mpg (US), an 11 percent improvement from the outgoing model. The North American version will go into production early next year at Hyundai's Alabama factory and be badged as a 2011 model. Here in North America the standard engine will be an upgraded version of the current 2.4-liter four-cylinder with direct injection. The U.S.-market Sonata is expected to debut at either the LA Auto Show later this year or Detroit Auto Show in early January. About a year after launch, the new Sonata will be the first U.S. market Hyundai to get the hybrid system that was shown at last year's LA show. Thanks to everyone who tipped us on this!


Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Sonata (KDM version)


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Officially Official: Hyundai reveals 2010 Sonata in Korea

Officially Official: Hyundai reveals 2010 Sonata in Korea originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 hyundai sonata2010HyundaiSonata2011 hyundai sonata2011 hyundai sonata hybrid2011HyundaiSonata2011HyundaiSonataHybridhyundaihyundai sonataHyundaiSonatasonataThu, 17 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Drip, Drip, Drip - More 2010 Hyundai Sonata images find their way onto the interwebs <b>[*UPDATED]</b>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/drip-drip-drip-more-2010-hyundai-sonata-images-find-their-wa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/drip-drip-drip-more-2010-hyundai-sonata-images-find-their-wa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/drip-drip-drip-more-2010-hyundai-sonata-images-find-their-wa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Hyundai Sonata -- Click above for image gallery

Hyundai isn't happy about it, but the 2010 Hyundai Sonata has been caught in the Internet's voracious maw eight days before its official launch in South Korea. Hyundai then released designer's sketches of the new car... but the pics of the actual car are better because they're the realness.

Apparently caught during an ad or photo shoot, it's immediately clear that this Sonata is - as with every recent Hyundai - a break from the current competent but safe-as-houses Sonata. That long nose and greenhouse, the hood ridges, the bevels, swoops, and that serious gash down the side of the car are not the Hyundai of old. From what we can tell, it looks quite expressive and it doesn't appear to be a bad looking car, but we'll wait for next week's launch to get definitive.

You can have a look at the pics in the gallery below, but we will leave the dissection of its design to you in the comments section. Hat tip to everybody and their mothers!

*UPDATE: Hyundai has released an official press release (available after the jump) and a pair of renderings available in the gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Sonata


[Source: Bobaedream (translated) via Carscoop]

Continue reading Drip, Drip, Drip - More 2010 Hyundai Sonata images find their way onto the interwebs [*UPDATED]

Drip, Drip, Drip - More 2010 Hyundai Sonata images find their way onto the interwebs [*UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 10:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 hyundai2010 hyundai sonata2010 sonata2010Hyundai2010HyundaiSonata2010Sonatabudgethyundaihyundai sonataHyundaiSonatasedansonatasouth koreaSouthKoreaTue, 01 Sep 2009 10:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Are you the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/spy-shots-are-you-the-2011-hyundai-sonata/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/spy-shots-are-you-the-2011-hyundai-sonata/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/spy-shots-are-you-the-2011-hyundai-sonata/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Latest 2011 Hyundai Sonata Spy Shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

What you're gawking at appear to be the first undisguised images of Hyundai's forthcoming Sonata sedan caught by the folks at Hyundai Blog during what appears to be a photo shoot (check out the interior cutaway above), likely in its home market of Korea (check out the badging on the decklid).

If only in looks and not in price, the 2011 Sonata appears to be making a concerted move for the premium end of the midsize swimming pool, what with its more rakish roofline and expressive design. We've heard for some time that the Sonata was to gain a four-door coupe profile and more assertive fascias front and rear, and these dark, grainy photos cinch those details for us, although the car's aesthetics don't appear to be so radical as to be off-putting or even terribly divisive. Without looking too hard, we can see little bits of various competitors in the model's design, but overall the Sonata still manages to look quite fresh.

We'll have to wait until we see the car in the metal for ourselves to pass judgment (or at least get a gander at a few higher-quality photographs - especially a dead-on profile), but thus far, we continued to be encouraged why what we see. Check out the not-so-high-res images in the small gallery below.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Hyundai Sonata

sonataspy2011-1250883198sonata2011_spyshots003-1250883267sonata2011_spyshots001-1250883261sonata2011_spyshots002-1250883263

[Source: Hyundai Blog]

Spy Shots: Are you the 2011 Hyundai Sonata? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaimid-sizemidsizesedansonataFri, 21 Aug 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: 2011 Hyundai Sonata coming to Detroit Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-2011-hyundai-sonata-coming-to-detroit-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-2011-hyundai-sonata-coming-to-detroit-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-2011-hyundai-sonata-coming-to-detroit-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: ,


2011 Hyundai Sonata spy shots - Click above for image gallery

Back in June, we reported on a news story in the Montgomery Advertiser saying that the 2011 Hyundai Sonata would be unveiled in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It appears that Hyundai may be holding off the introduction of its bread and butter sedan for a larger audience in Detroit. Inside Line is reporting that the Sonata will bow in the Motor City, giving Hyundai a big-league entry at the North American International Auto Show.

When describing the design direction of the new Sonata, Hyundai USA CEO John Krafcik told IL the 2011 model would be "bold, so bold." Judging from the many spy photos we've seen, we're thinking that could be an apt description. We see well-sculpted sheetmetal punctuated with a four door coupe-like roof line, but we'll have to wait until the covers come off to hand down a verdict..

Hyundai is also rumored to be using direct injection technology to power the four cylinder Sonata. The mooted 2.2-liter powertrain is expected to produce in the neighborhood of 200 horsepower while also improving fuel economy versus the 2009 model by 5% to 10%. Hyundai has been on a roll of late with its successful launches of the Genesis Coupe and Sedan, and if it can pull off a showstopper at the Detroit Auto Show with the 2011 Sonata, the Korean automaker will officially be on fire.


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata - spy shots


[Source: Inside Line | Images: Sammy_R-Gti of assayyarat.com]

REPORT: 2011 Hyundai Sonata coming to Detroit Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai sonata2011HyundaiSonatadirect injectionDirectInjectionhyundaihyundai sonataHyundaiSonatainside lineInsideLinejohn krafcikJohnKrafciksonataWed, 15 Jul 2009 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: Nearly undisguised next-gen Hyundai Sonata snapped in Dubai!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/reader-spy-nearly-undisguised-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-snapped-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/reader-spy-nearly-undisguised-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-snapped-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/reader-spy-nearly-undisguised-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-snapped-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Hyundai Sonata spy shots - Click above for image gallery

One of our loyal readers was vacationing in Dubai when he happened upon this nearly undisguised and totally unattended 2011 Hyundai Sonata mule. Sammy_R-Gti of assayarat.com explains that he was driving around on vacation and stopped to observe mid-day prayer at a mosque. When he emerged from said house of prayer, he spied the car parked outside of a neighboring spa resort (perhaps some engineers were taking a much-deserved break?), and our man was able to rattle off the photos seen here. Because Sammy_R-Gti (correctly) figured that whoever was with the car probably wouldn't want him photographing their quarry, our man didn't have time to take it all in, but he did gain perhaps the best look yet at Hyundai's pivotal new sedan.

As expected, the roofline and short rear deck indicates that the Korean automaker is going for a much more rakish look, adopting the 'four-door coupe' aesthetic that is so in vogue these days. Unlike earlier spy shots, Sammy has managed to score an almost completely undisguised look at the car's Lexus ES350-like headlamps and its simple three-bar front grille, as well as new details about the sheetmetal's contouring. Judging by the fact that this prototype was fitted with relatively high-profile tires and modestly sized steel wheels with covers, we're guessing that it is a base model.

Check out the gallery of images below. Thanks for the shots, Sammy!


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata - spy shots


[Source: Sammy_R-Gti of assayyarat.com]

Reader Spy: Nearly undisguised next-gen Hyundai Sonata snapped in Dubai! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Hyundai2011 Hyundai Sonata2011 sonata2011Hyundai2011HyundaiSonata2011Sonatadubaifour door coupefour-door coupeFour-doorCoupeFourDoorCoupehyundaihyundai sonataHyundaiSonatasonataspy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsWed, 08 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock ads - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Hyundai is piling on additional incentives to boost its Assurance program as the industry heads into the dog days of summer. The newest promotion, Gas Lock, fixes the price of regular unleaded at $1.49 per gallon for the next year. The program runs July 1 through August 31, and eligible vehicles include the Accent, Sonata, Tiburon, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Entourage, Azera, Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz. Customers choosing to utilize Gas Lock will forgo $1,000 in available rebates, making the incentive a gamble that gas prices will remain high.

Hyundai Assurance struck at cord with the American public when it offered payment protection in the event of job loss. Now Hyundai is looking to give consumers increased peace of mind over of the volatility of gas prices, which have swung from under $2 a gallon a few months ago to nearly $3 at the beginning of summer.

John Krafcik, CEO and president of Hyundai Motor America, says the company's research shows that "nearly 40% of potential new car buyers are staying out of the market specifically due to uncertainty around future gas prices."

You may remember that last year, Chrysler tried a similar promotion, offering the opportunity to lock in gas at $2.99 per gallon when a gallon of petrol was at an all-time high of about $4.50. The move didn't appear to be very successful for the Pentastar, as most opted to instead take the upfront cash on the hood. Hit the jump to pour over the particulars of Hyundai's Gas Lock promotion, watch the two commercials, and let us know in the comments section if you feel customers would be better off taking the $1,000 or one year of $1.49 gasoline.

[Source: Hyundai | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Continue reading New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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When opening a door, one expects to grab the handle and pull without the risk of injury. If you own a 2002 or 2003 Hyundai Sonata with chrome handles, you may not have that luxury, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. As a result, Hyundai is recalling 91,000 Sonatas because the chrome plating on the upper edge of the interior handle may wear, "causing cracking or separation between the chrome plating on the inboard and outboard surfaces of the handle." NHTSA says the sharp edge can cause "laceration injuries to anyone using the door handle." Ouch.

Sonata owners can take their vehicle to any Hyundai dealership to have their handles repaired free of charge beginning in June. To find out if your car is eligible for the repair, call 1-800-633-5151. Hit the jump to view the official press release.

[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Hyundai recalling over 91,000 Sonata sedans due to... sharp chrome door handles?!

Hyundai recalling over 91,000 Sonata sedans due to... sharp chrome door handles?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>door handleDoorHandlehyundai sonataHyundaiSonataNHTSArecallSonataTue, 26 May 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Rakish 2011 Hyundai Sonata draws closer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/spy-shots-rakish-2011-hyundai-sonata-draws-closer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/spy-shots-rakish-2011-hyundai-sonata-draws-closer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/spy-shots-rakish-2011-hyundai-sonata-draws-closer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Hyundai Sonata spy photos: Click above to view a gallery

Hyundai has really upped its game with new entries like the Genesis Coupe and Sedan, but right now its high volume products like the midsize Sonata are simply "good enough." The Korean automaker has already committed to big plans for Sonata, as it has promised direct injection and turbocharging for improved efficiency. A quick look at some well camo'd photos of a 2011 Sonata mule shows that improvements could come in design as well.

The most eye-catching dimension of the spy photo pictured above is a sleek, Volkswagen CC-like greenhouse. Hyundai even seems smitten with the ten-spoke wheel design of the VW, as the two alloys look like fraternal twins. Beyond the four-door coupe look, the 2011 Sonata mule is very well camouflaged, although you can see what appears to be some interesting surfacing above the front wheel well that could give it a beefier-looking stance.

Up front, the front grille and headlamps are exposed. The grille doesn't appear to be dramatically different than what we we see on today's Sonata, but there is no hiding the dynamic new shape of the mule's headlamps. The high-tech lights sweep around the corners, giving the impression that the 2011 model will sport a more rounded front end than the 2009 model.

We likely have a bit longer to go before the 2011 Sonata begins its strip-tease act, but photos in the gallery below at least look promising. Whether the next-gen Sonata will be good enough to take on the well established midsized monsters from Toyota, Honda, and Nissan will clearly be a question for another day. Hat tip to James J.


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Spy Pics

Interior

[Source: BOBAEDREAM]

Spy Shots: Rakish 2011 Hyundai Sonata draws closer originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Hyundai have initiated recalls on 963,305 vehicles as part of four separate campaigns. The first recall, blanketing over one half million late-model vehicles, is nationwide. The other three recalls, all corrosion-related on older vehicles, are limited to the regions of the country where salt is used to de-ice roads in the winters.

The most widespread recall, affecting up to 531,894 2005-2008 Accent, Azera, Elantra, Entourage, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson, and Veracruz models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V122000. It is focused on a malfunctioning stop lamp switch that may prevent brake lights from illuminating when the pedal is depressed (the same switch may also cause them to stay lit after the brakes are released).

The second recall, affecting up to 175,765 1999-2004 Sonata, XG300, and XG350 models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V124000. That recall, limited to America's so-called "Salt Belt" states, is centered around potentially excessive corrosion of the front sub-frame due to winter road salt applications. If unnoticed, the lower control arm may separate from its mount.

The third recall, affecting up to 170,610 2001-2003 Elantra and Tiburon models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V125000. Also limited to the salt-belt states, the affected component is a failed lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.

The fourth recall, affecting up to 85,036 2001-2003 Santa Fe models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V123000. Again limited to to the Salt Belt states, the recall is centered around the possible internal corrosion of the rear trailing arms in the vehicle's suspension.

In all four recalls, Hyundai dealers will inspect, repair, and replace defective or damaged parts at no cost to the owner. In some situations, rust-proofing material will be added to chassis areas to arrest the corrosion process. Owners of affected vehicles may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 1-800-633-5151, call the NHTSA Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit SAFERCAR.GOV. Press releases after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units

Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AccentAzerabrake partBrakePartCorrosionDefectiveElantraEntourageHyundai RecallHyundaiRecallNHTSARecallroad saltRoadSaltsaltSanta FeSantaFeSonataTiburonTucsonXG300XG350Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai Prius? Hybrid Sonata could have distinct shape, different name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/hyundai-prius-hybrid-sonata-could-have-distinct-shape-differen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/hyundai-prius-hybrid-sonata-could-have-distinct-shape-differen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/hyundai-prius-hybrid-sonata-could-have-distinct-shape-differen/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Hyundai Sonata

When you think of the word "hybrid," what vehicle pops into your mind? Likely, it's the Toyota Prius, and that's what they call a really big win for the marketing department. Much of the success that Toyota's seminal hybrid model has achieved has been attributed to its unique styling, which sets the fuel-saver apart from other manufacturers' hybrids, making the ecomobile instantly recognizable. Those that care about saving the planet - or at least those who like the appearance of caring - often choose the Prius due to its iconic shape and name.

Woong-chul Yang, president of R&D for Hyundai-Kia Motors, says, "People who drive a hybrid like to be differentiated." Sounds painful. In any case, the automaker is reportedly working on giving their first hybrid model, which will be based on the Sonata midsize sedan, a distinct shape. To go along with the unique profile, the Korean hybrid may get a different name to further distance it from its non-hybrid sibling.

Gallery: 2009 Hyundai Sonata


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Hyundai Prius? Hybrid Sonata could have distinct shape, different name originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenhyundaihyundai hybridhyundai sonatahyundai sonata hybridHyundaiHybridHyundaiSonataHyundaiSonataHybridsonatasonata hybridSonataHybridMon, 09 Mar 2009 15:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Next-gen Hyundai Sonata going four-door coupe route]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/27/spy-shots-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-going-four-door-coupe-route/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/27/spy-shots-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-going-four-door-coupe-route/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/27/spy-shots-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-going-four-door-coupe-route/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of next-gen Hyundai Sonata pics
With the Genesis Sedan and Coupe both finally on sale, Hyundai has a moment to breathe. OK, done. Back to work. Next up is a complete redesign of the Hyundai Sonata, which is one the South Korean brand's big sellers that competes in a very crowded, competitive segment against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Chevy Malibu and Ford Fusion, among others.

The next Sonata will be a total rethinking of the mid-size sedan's packaging. Based on these spy shots taken while a prototype was out testing on what appears to be a frozen lake, we can clearly see that the profile of the next Sonata will move farther towards the four-door coupe end of the spectrum where vehicles like the Volkswagen CC live. The severely sloping roof line now meets the trunk lid much farther back leaving just a short length of rear deck lid. Overall, it appears as if the next Sonata will be a larger, yet much more visually interesting vehicle than the one it replaces. The only question is, where does that leave the Azera?

Gallery: Next-gen Hyundai Sonata - spy shots


[Source: KGP Photogrpahy]

Spy Shots: Next-gen Hyundai Sonata going four-door coupe route originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a high-res gallery of the BHMC Sonata

The changes to the Chinese-market Hyundai Sonata are not enough to raise the roomy sedan's profile above handsome anonycar, but it's encouraging to see Hyundai figuring out freshening cycles without bringing the weird. This Sonata has been facelifted by BHMC, Hyundai's Chinese joint venture, and the car in the pictures is either a pre-production model, or a Monday-morning car, as it's missing some window trim. The tweaked nose and rump echo the styling of so many cars on the road that you can just pick your favorite brand as the one Hyundai copied. Derivative? Maybe, or it may just be that there's only so many places to go with a modest refresh of a modestly styled car. The interior also garnered some attention, getting adjustments to the seat and dashboard trim in the bright, airy cockpit. The design may not be quirky enough to please some, but a handsomely styled car at a competitive price will always find buyers. Thanks for the tip, 94 Taurus owner!

Gallery: Facelifted Chinese Hyundai Sonata


[Source: Carscoop]


Hyundai Sonata gets redesign for China, we want too originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click for a high res gallery of the new Sonata

In recent months, Hyundai has made a big splash with the introductions of the Genesis sedan and coupe. While those two models will likely do wonders for Hyundai's street cred, they will definitely be niche players when it comes to volume. Among passenger cars in the US market, the midsize segment has been the highest volume category for nearly two decades. Since the mid-nineties, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord have been the primary players with everyone else having been an also-ran. In recent years, however, Hyundai's entrant in the segment, the Sonata, has put up an increasingly aggressive challenge to the big dogs. The current generation Hyundai Sonata debuted for the 2006 model year and the company unwrapped its mid-cycle refresh back in February at the Chicago Auto Show.

The 2009 Sonatas have been in production since before the Chicago debut and they should be in stock at Hyundai stores around the country now. We went out to the Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center (HATCI) outside of Ann Arbor, MI for a tour of the facility where the new Sonata was created and then set out for a couple of hours to see how it behaves in the real world. Find out if the new Sonata is for you after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Hyundai Sonata


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Hyundai Sonata - Korean bred, redesigned in America

First Drive: 2009 Hyundai Sonata - Korean bred, redesigned in America originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Apr 2008 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Front seat cushions are under a lot of pressure these days. It is a strenuous job, as they are tasked with determining how heavy the derrière sitting on them actually is. According to Hyundai, passenger seat sensors in the cushions of some 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonatas may not be up to the task of distinguishing between a child and an adult, so they are sending out recall notices to 394,000 Sonata owners. Weight sensors in the passenger seats of most late-model vehicles are designed to disable the passenger-side airbag when a child is riding up front. However, Hyundai told the NHTSA that an error with some of its sensors may keep the passenger airbags off when small adults are occupying the seats, as well.

Notified Sonata owners are being asked to check whether or not the airbag is activated when the seat is occupied by an adult. If their vehicle is among the estimated 1 percent of vehicles that have "confused" airbag sensors, the seat cushions will be removed and sent to the West Coast for reprogramming. Owners will receive a rental car while their cushions are in California getting reprogrammed -- and some R&R, of course.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]

Hyundai recalling nearly 400,000 Sonatas to check seat sensor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AirbagHyundaiRecallReprogrammingSensorSonataWed, 16 Apr 2008 13:59:00 EST