2018 Hyundai Sonata (facelift) starts testing

23/08/2016 - 09:47 Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai, Spy pictures Sagar Parikh

Should be introduced sometime in 2017.

While the original seventh generation Hyundai Sonata that was introduced in 2014 hasn't made it to India despite its Auto Expo reveal, Hyundai has already started developing the facelift. The 2018 Hyundai Sonata has been spied for the first time, in Michigan, courtesy Hyundai-Blog.

2018 Hyundai Sonata (facelift) headlamp spy shot — The 2018 Hyundai Sonata features a new grille design and tweaked headlamps on the front.

The test mule seen in the spy shots indicates exterior changes would revolve around new grille design, tweaked headlamps and restyled bumper on the front, and new tail lamp at the rear. Typical for a mid-life facelift, the profile would remain largely unchanged, save for new alloy wheel designs, if there be any.

Interior changes may include a few aesthetic refreshes, and an upgraded infotainment system. Subtle changes could be seen in the engine line-up as well. In the U.S. market, the 2017 Hyundai Sonata is available with a 2.4-liter Theta II GDI naturally aspirated four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 185 hp and 178 lb.-ft. of torque, 1.6-litre Gamma turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that develops 178 hp and 195 lb.-ft. of torque and 2.0-litre Theta II turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine good for 245 hp and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.