Malaysia - New Hyundai Sonata teased ahead of imminent launch

Based on a new platform.

Malaysia's Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors has teased the soon-to-be-launched new Hyundai Sonata once again, this time through its official Facebook page.

The teaser provides a glimpse of the new gen saloon's sophisticated headlamp cluster with HID element. Just a few days earlier, the South Korean automaker displayed the car at a road show in Malaysia but revealed only the headlamps, a part of the grille, multi-spoke alloy wheel and bumper mounted LED daytime running lights.

The 2015 Sonata sits on a new platform which has increased the overall length by 35 mm and width by 30 mm. The car is also claimed to have improved its torsional rigidity and bending strength by 41% and 35% respectively.

The powertrain details of the Malaysia-spec model are yet to be revealed. In international markets, the engine lineup includes two GDI direct injection petrol engines displacing 2.0-litres and 2.4-litres and two GDI Turbo motors displacing 1.6-litres and 2.0-litres. All motors are mated to a 6-speed auto save for the 1.6-litre unit which is mated to the new 7-speed AT (in the US). Power outputs range from 165 hp to 245 hp.

Also read: Hyundai to improve the mileage of its cars by 25% in the next 6 years

The previous gen Sonata which is on sale in India has been overshadowed by compact premium cars like Mercedes A Class and Audi A3 Sedan which are positioned in the same price segment. A source within Hyundai has told Indian Autos Blog that the company would need to strengthen the Sonota's brand image before fielding the new gen model.

Competitors: Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Skoda Superb, VW Passat
Expected Price: INR 20-25 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date in India: NA