The new generation Hyundai Sonata is based on a versatile platform that supports electrification. Thus, a hybrid model is coming next spring, as announced by CEO Brian Smith at the 2019 New York Auto Show.
“Here’s something to look forward to; our all-new Sonata story is just getting started. With its incredibly capable platform, we’re going to introduce some dramatically different variants. There’ll be an all-new hybrid coming next year.”
Those hoping for a sportier version of the new-gen Sonata will have to wait until 2020, too, as “not long after that (the Sonata Hybrid’s unveiling), we’ll introduce the next model in our N Line”, said Smith. “A high-performance turbocharged Sonata, with over 275 horsepower.”
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Does that number ring a bell? That’s because the brand’s full-blown N Performance models, such as the i30 N, i30 Fastback N and Veloster N, have a 275 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Even though it’s too early to assume that the Sonata N Line will adopt the exact same powertrain, the numbers do point to that.
As for the regular versions of the Sonata, it will launch this year with two engines. The 1.6-liter turbo makes 180 hp (183 PS / 134 kW) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque, and the 2.5-liter produces 191 hp (194 PS / 142 kW) and 181 lb-ft (245 Nm) of torque. Both of them are matched to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Hyundai will start taking orders for the 2020 Sonata this October. The car will be produced at the Alabama factory, alongside the Elantra and Santa Fe. The facility will welcome a fourth model in the near future, according to Brian Smith.
