The model is providing only one variant: the totally loaded N Line beginning at $55,500 earlier than on-road prices.
In stark distinction to the rival Toyota Camry, which sells on its fuel-sipping hybrid know-how, the Sonata N Line focuses on turbo energy and sporty appears.
A 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo makes a helpful 213kW and 422Nm, which is shipped to the entrance wheels by way of an eight-speed dual-clutch auto.
It’s a formidable arrange delivering highly effective thrust off the mark. Hyundai claims it’ll attain 100km/h in 6.6 seconds (or 6.3 in the event you use the launch management characteristic). That’s a formidable determine for what is basically a household sedan.
The engine is thirsty, consuming a claimed 8.1L/100km, nevertheless it wins again factors for under needing the most cost effective unleaded petrol.
Hyundai’s dual-clutch auto is great, snatching gears expertly to faucet into the automotive’s wholesome low-down torque reserves. Drivers trying to find extra management can use the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to pluck their very own gears.
There are a number of driving modes to select from.
Within the Regular setting the automotive feels moderately sedate, though the suspension stays on the firmer facet of the ledger, which suggests it may possibly jar over highway imperfections.
Flick into Sport mode and it turns into extra participating, holding onto gears longer for optimum thrust.
The steering turns into heavier and the suspension corporations for higher poise by corners.
So as to add a contact of theatre, an artificial noise is piped into the cabin. Whereas some will like it, others might favor a extra pure exhaust be aware.
Street noise is intrusive over poor high quality highway surfaces however general the cabin does an excellent job of isolating occupants from the surface world.
The N Line’s strong efficiency is matched by its daring appears.
Whereas the earlier mannequin had a swoopy, sharp-edged look, the brand new mannequin is simpler on the attention.
A strip of LED lights runs the size of the entrance finish, whereas H-shaped LED tail lights, quad exhausts and 19-inch alloy wheels create an imposing presence.
Hyundai has thrown every thing however the kitchen sink on the Sonata.
Step inside and you might be greeted with suede and premium Nappa leather-appointed seats which are energy adjustable within the entrance, with a reminiscence operate for the motive force.
The entrance seats are additionally heated and cooled, whereas the rear window seats and the leather-wrapped steering wheel are heated.
The gear selector has been moved out of the centre console to under the proper indicator stalk, liberating up room for storage and a wi-fi machine charging pad.
There are two joined curved 12.3-inch screens: one controls the infotainment and the opposite shows the motive force’s devices.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and in-built satnav are customary, as is a booming 12-speaker Bose stereo.
There are soft-touch supplies overlaying most surfaces all through the cabin, complemented by gloss black and metallic parts.
Again seat passengers have loads of legroom and the boot is an honest measurement. It’s smaller than the Camry’s however can swallow the weekly store and faculty baggage with little fuss and may be opened hands-free.
Security is complete, with a full array of energetic driver aids to assist keep away from accidents. Six airbags cowl each rows.
Hyundai covers its autos with a five-year/limitless km guarantee and gives a capped worth servicing program that prices $350 each 12 months or 10,000km.
VERDICT
Three and a half stars
A mature all-rounder for eager drivers trying to ditch the SUV for one thing extra enjoyable.
HYUNDAI SONATA N LINE
PRICE: About $60,000 drive-away
ENGINE: 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, 213kW and 422Nm
WARRANTY/SERVICING: 5 years/limitless km, $1750 for 5 years
SAFETY: Six airbags, auto emergency braking, lane-keep help, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, rear occupant alert, secure exit warning, velocity warning, 360-degree digital camera
THIRST: 8.1L/100km
SPARE: House saver
LUGGAGE: 480 litres
