2020 Hyundai Sonata revealed, showcases coupe-like design

ABU DHABI: Inspired by the bold Le Fil Rouge concept seen last year at Geneva, Hyundai has taken the wraps off the 2020 Sonata. This will replace the 7th generation LF model and follow Hyundai’s theme of ‘Sensuous Sportiness’.

Moving away from the traditional sedan look, the new Sonata has a 4-door coupe look reminiscent of the Audi A7 Sportback. The massive 7-point Digital Pulse Cascading grille at the front blends into the bonnet seamlessly, with a wide chrome trim lower down adding some character. The unique 4-cluster headlight design (with individual lighting elements) grabs your attention with LED DRLs being inspired by the HDC-2 concept. To create a more impactful look, the DRLs blend into the chrome strip that runs along the length of the bonnet.

The sides of the new Sonata feature slightly flared wheel arches along with two character lines (the upper one merges with the taillights). The rear end makes the coupe styling evident with outward facing taillights linked by an extended light strip. Lower down on the bumper you have the number plate housing flanked by individual reflector/fog and reverse lights.

Open the door, step inside, and you are greeted with a new dashboard design. Your attention is immediately drawn to the 9-inch infotainment screen at the centre with a wing-shaped digital instrument cluster for the driver. Hyundai designers wanted to create ‘lightweight feeling’ inside the cabin, this is evident with the use of narrow air vents and the use of buttons for the transmission selection (instead of a regular gear lever). The drive mode/driver assistance system buttons are also placed nearby adding to the ‘lightweight’ feeling.

As of now, there is no technical information regarding the new Sonata. No specifications on the engines have been provided, but we do know the dimensions. The new Sonata is now longer than before at 4,900 mm (+45 mm), wider at 1,890 mm (+25 mm), and has an extended wheelbase of 2,840 mm (+35 mm). Complete information will be available next month at the New York Auto Show.