2015 Hyundai Sonata unveiled in Korea

Team OD Updated: March 25, 2014, 12:57 PM IST

Hyundai has revealed the new Sonata at its home market of Korea with the official debut to take place at the upcoming New York Auto Show.

2015 Hyundai Sonata (11) The car's design is based on the latest version of the Fluidic Design philosophy and has a clean, elegant and premium look

The car's design is based on the latest version of the Fluidic Design philosophy and has a clean, elegant and premium look which was seen on the Genesis sedan. The new Sonata has a modified platform and has up to 51 per cent Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), which Hyundai claims gives the new version 41 per cent greater torsional strength and 35 per cent better bending strength than the outgoing model. This despite being 10 per cent lighter than regular steel. Â The car is also 35mm longer and 30 mm wider than the previous model thus offering better interior space. The suspension has also been reworked and tested at Hyundai's Nurburgring and Mojave proving grounds to improve the handling and ride characteristics.

2015-hyundai-sonata-o-1 The styling differs from the previous-gen car's swoopy lines

The interior has been made with a focus on the driver and features better ergonomics for overall comfort along with a premium feel. The buttons and relevant information has been laid out in a way which is easily accessible and does not hamper the driver's on-road focus. The steering wheel has been designed to offer the best possible grip and feel to the driver and boasts Â a redesigned steering column. Engineers at Hyundai have worked hard to reduce the NVH levels by damping the transmission mounting points and making use of sound proofing materials in areas where noise can enter the cabin. This has led a quieter, peaceful and calmer cabin ambience even on the move.

2015 Hyundai Sonata (1) The interior has been made with a focus on the driver and features better ergonomics for overall comfort along with a premium feel

Engines on the new Sonata are 2.0-and 2.4litres four cylinders for the Korean markets mated to 6-speed manual and auto boxes. All the Sonatas will be front-wheel driven.

2015-hyundai-sonata-p-1 The rear end also looks more mature now

Key features offered in this sedan are the Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), lane departure warning system, blind spot detection, driver knee airbag, electronic parking brake and heated rear seats.

View the 2015 Hyundai Sonata image gallery here

Read the thorough press release below for more information.

Hyundai Motor Stages World Premiere of All-new Sonata in Korea

Hyundai Motor's symbolic mid-size sedan boasts premium evolved design and craftsmanship - Inspires driver confidence with dynamic performance, smooth ride and predictable handling - Class-leading advanced safety and convenience features March 24, 2014 â" Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea's largest automaker, today unveiled the `All-new Sonata', a sophisticated evolution of the brand's long-established mid-size sedan. The all-new Sonata represents the practical application of premium Hyundai Motor technologies first introduced in the all-new Genesis, which was given its world premiere in Korea in November 2013. A modern, enhanced vehicle with class-leading advanced features, the all-new Sonata has been designed using Hyundai Motor's evolved Fluidic Sculpture philosophy. Displaying a refined, premium style, the all-new Sonata showcases Hyundai Motor's sleek exterior and intuitive interior design ethos, projecting a harmonious and athletic appearance. The all-new Sonata's design concept focuses on 'Inner Force', a theme that points to its evolved aesthetic and confident perfection. Premium equipment, style and status deliver a feeling typically associated with vehicles in the segment above. The all-new Sonata successfully fulfills the practical needs of drivers, while evoking a sense of confidence and class at the same time. It also represents the democratization of new technologies first developed for inclusion in the all-new Genesis, offering Modern Premium values to more customers. "The Sonata has been playing a key role in Hyundai Motor's rapid growth in the global market, as well as leading the development of the Korean auto industry. We are confident that the all-new Sonata will change the landscape of the global mid-size sedan market," Choong Ho Kim, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor, said during the all-new Sonata launching ceremony in Seoul today. "Hyundai Motor has been pursuing qualitative growth, providing innovative experiences and values to our customers, and the all-new Sonata will be at the center of these efforts." The all-new Sonata project began with the aim of developing a world-class premium mid-size sedan through innovation in fundamental areas, while maintaining the model's proud heritage. Inspiring driver confidence was an important goal for the all-new Sonata: the new model utilizes a modified Hyundai Motor platform that has been optimized to offer a dynamic driving experience. The car's newly designed underpinnings contribute to an improvement in suspension performance and a greater structural rigidity over the previous generation model, resulting in 41% greater torsional strength and 35% greater bending strength than the outgoing model. The new model is 35 millimeters longer and 30 millimeters wider than the previous generation Sonata, delivering a marginal increase in exterior size but worthwhile gains in internal volume. Advanced suspension design and active safety features such as Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning System and Advanced Smart Cruise Control, ensure a rewarding and safe driving experience. Uncompromised levels of convenience features are fitted to the all-new Sonata, providing it with the type of luxury, safety and technology equipment typically associated with cars from the segment above. A variety of premium features such as rear parking sensors, heated leather seats and rear-side curtain airbags emphasize Hyundai Motor's commitment to delivering value beyond expectations. Advanced multimedia systems and next-generation infotainment equipment are also fitted to the all-new Sonata. Hyundai Motor's engineers concentrated on offering efficient and effective powertrains that would deliver maximum performance for the all-new Sonata. As a result the new model offers drivers impressive acceleration and economy, together with useable low and mid-range torque that provides exceptional drivability in every situation. The wide range of engines is mated to manual, automatic transmission gearboxes, and all of these drivetrain options offer high fuel efficiency and low exhaust emissions, re-emphasizing Hyundai Motor's continuing commitment to the global environment. Since the Sonata badge was first introduced by Hyundai Motor in 1985, cumulative sales have almost reached seven million units, making this model the third Hyundai Motor model ever to achieve the landmark figure. Hyundai Motor's previous generation Sonata was launched in 2009, embracing the brand's Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy. The striking design and stylish appearance of the previous generation Sonata enhanced Hyundai Motor's image. The all-new Sonata, the result of three years of development and an investment of approximately 450 billion Won (KRW), is scheduled to be launched outside Korea in the second half of this year. Hyundai Motor targets to sell a total of 228,000 units (Korea: 63,000 / Overseas: 165,000) for this year, while aiming to expand it up to 338,000 units (Korea: 89,000 / Overseas: 249,000) next year. 01 Key Differences: All-new Sonata vs previous generation Sonata Building on the success of previous generation Sonata 02 Styling Evolved Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design styling 03 Driving Performance Driving dynamics and chassis development 04 Safety Comprehensive safety features, high crash performance and BIW strength 05 Convenience Features Driver-focused convenience features and advanced technologies 06 NVH Low levels of NVH 07 Powertrain Smooth, powerful and economical powertrains 08 Technical Specifications Technical details of all-new Sonata * Product specifications and options available may vary by region 1. Key Differences: All- new Sonata vs. previous generation Sonata - Refined premium design - Innovation in fundamentals - Body-in-White 41 percent, 35 percent stiffer in torsional, bending strength - Use of advanced-high strength steel increased by 30 percent - Spacious, luxurious cabin - Lower levels of NVH - Ergonomic driver-focused interior layout - Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) - Blind Spot Detection - Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) - Hands-free Smart Trunk - Driver knee airbag - Modern LED lighting - Emergency stop signal - Electronic parking brake - Heated rear seats 2. Styling Following the world premiere of the all-new Genesis luxury sedan, the all-new Sonata is the second vehicle to demonstrate Hyundai Motor's evolved design philosophy, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. Fluidic Sculpture embraces the company's 'Modern Premium' brand direction and its commitment to delivering value beyond expectations. As applied to the all-new Sonata, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 retains the original essence of this well-received design philosophy while being further defined by core characteristics, such as simple and harmonious design with refined fluidic design elements. The all-new Sonata offers modern style through easy-to-understand and pleasing design fundamentals that are expressed through rich visuotactile colors, materials and overall levels of finish. Exterior Design While inheriting the sensational design of the previous Sonata, the all-new Sonata has evolved into a more refined, premium vehicle. Hyundai Motor designers emphasized its inner dignity, expressed through polished lines and forms. Hyundai Motor's latest interpretation of Fluidic Sculpture provides the all-new Sonata with a high-class, sleek style, a confident stance, and an appearance that is in keeping with Hyundai Motor's pioneering family look. Ultimately, the balanced, refined styling of the all-new Sonata conveys the dynamic driving experience offered by the new model. A single-frame premium 3D hexagonal grille is a key styling element at the front of the all-new Sonata, while refined swage lines on its flanks and futuristic features at its rear contribute to its dynamic shape. Powerful light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lights and striking rear light clusters add to the new model's sophisticated appearance. Interior Design The all-new Sonata benefits from improved interior ergonomics, resulting in a completely driver-focused cabin that incorporates Hyundai Motor's core interior design principles of safety, intuitiveness and simplicity. The all-new Sonata provides the luxury feel of a car from the segment above in a mid-size sedan package, conveying a sense of style and dynamism previously unavailable in a Hyundai Motor car in this class. In order to convey this sense of luxury the points of contact between the driver and car were closely examined and enhanced â" one result being the high-grade materials such as leather and metal that are utilized throughout. Maximum seat comfort and convenience is provided through the use of high-end environmentally friendly materials and elegant trim details. HMI Central to conveying the all-new Sonata's premium design qualities is transmitting that experience to the driver and passengers, which Hyundai Motor has achieved through the use of high-grade materials where constant physical contact with the car's occupants occurs. Additionally, significant attention to detail was paid to ergonomics. For example, Hyundai Motor engineers focused their attention on developing the ideal steering wheel design to ensure the best possible grip and feel for the driver. After a series of tests the dimensions and style of the wheel were altered: an overall increase in rim cross section thickness and ergonomic improvements to grip rests ensure more of the steering wheel surface is in contact with the driver. Such subtle improvements to detail enhance the driving experience of the all-new Sonata, especially at high speeds. The all-new Sonata has also been fitted with newly configured parts, such as a redesigned steering column in order to accommodate the car's optimal driver-focused layout. The central console has moved away from the traditional shape and style, and vital information is now displayed in a more effective and easy-to-digest manner, in the instrument cluster facing the driver. This approach significantly improves visibility for the driver, emphasizing that Hyundai Motor cares for the drivers of its vehicles. The switches in the all-new Sonata have been grouped depending on function and are within easy reach of the driver, facilitating quicker, safer control. Switch feel was also given rigorous consideration, both in terms of operational force and touch, in order to make locating and operating functions as easy as possible while driving. The feel and grip of every component occupants come into contact with has been improved over the previous generation model. 3. Driving Performance The all-new Sonata sets a new standard for ride in a mid-size sedan. Extensive chassis testing and tuning set out to improve the ride characteristics of the all-new Sonata over its predecessor, with particular attention being paid to chassis rigidity. Improved twisting and bending strength have been achieved thanks to greater use of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), which is twice as rigid and 10 percent lighter than traditional steel, resulting in enhanced safety and driving performance. As one of the key drivers of Hyundai Motor's sales, the all-new Sonata was tested in a variety of locations worldwide, including the famed NÃ¼rburgring in Germany at Hyundai Motor's dedicated Technical Center, and the Mojave Proving Ground in California, America, in order to maximize product competitiveness and satisfy the diverse needs of its global audience. Reducing road noise, vibrations and enhancing driving dynamics were priorities for the all-new Sonata development team. These objectives were achieved in part through optimized suspension damping that gives occupants a soft, silent and comfortable experience. A luxurious feel is generated through exceptional ride comfort, while the thorough development of handling and steering feel allows the all-new Sonata to also offer a stable and secure ride over all road surfaces and in all driving conditions. In order to improve ride and handling performance, there have been significant changes to the front and rear suspension, whose structure and geometry have been greatly modified to enhance responsiveness, handling and stability. The dual lower suspension arms of the rear suspension of the all-new Sonata distribute lateral forces more effectively than single arm versions, providing greater freedom to finely tune ride characteristics. Steering feel has been further increased thanks to the development of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) that has resulted in a larger data processing unit, increased logic control cycle and motor control speed, and greater steering column rigidity. Gentle on-center feel and agile, precise and responsive steering feel are aided by the all-new Sonata's Drive Mode Select function, which allows the driver to choose the best driving parameters to suit their requirements or the current road conditions. In terms of braking, the all-new Sonata boasts superior stopping distances for a car of its class, combined with an assured, firm feel. Driver confidence is enhanced through the linear delivery of impressive braking performance, while greater comfort is ensured thanks to minimal intrusion of noise and vibration into the cabin. Carefully-paired powertrain combinations allow the all-new Sonata to deliver improved drivability over the previous generation model. A key aim during the development of the all-new Sonata was to provide useable performance and drivability while delivering maximum economy under regularly-encountered driving conditions. 4. Safety Body In White Stiffness An impressive 51 percent of the all-new Sonata's steel is Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), an increase of 30 percent over the previous generation model. These AHSS components are used to both increase stiffness and more effectively protect passengers, helping the all-new Sonata to achieve top-class safety ratings according to the company's internal tests. The new model has been further strengthened by increasing the use of structural adhesive more than ten times when compared with the previous generation model. The addition of dual member structures in main sections of the body has added strength too, while the prevalence of hot-stamped components has increased by 9 percent over the previous model. Notably, the hot-stamped double-section structure on the B-pillar especially contributes greatly to the excellent performance of the all-new Sonata in crash performance tests. These changes mean that the all-new Sonata's torsional and bending stiffness has increased by 41 percent and 35 percent respectively, compared with its predecessor. Internal testing data suggest that the new model will score highly in official crash overlap and chassis strength tests. In addition, high rear impact performance is ensured through reinforced side and cross members that support the vehicle's sub-frames and strengthen sub-frame mounting points, which also improves suspension responsiveness. High Technology for Safety The all-new Sonata features an abundance of advanced safety features designed to protect its occupants. A suite of airbags, including driver knee airbag, are fitted to the new model, while several advanced passive and active systems work harmoniously to ensure the all-new Sonata is one of the safest vehicles on the road. Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) uses radar to automatically calculate the distance to cars directly ahead and behind. The system maintains a constant gap to the next vehicle and deploys the Automatic Emergency Braking system if a stationary vehicle is detected ahead â" avoiding a potential collision. Blind Spot Detection (BSD) monitors traffic around the car in the driver's blind spots, warning drivers of possible unseen hazards. This system notifies the driver of hidden hazards through an indicator symbol on the instrument panel and via illuminated signals on both exterior mirrors. If a driver should ignore these visual warnings and begin to change lanes, the BSD system automatically issues an audible warning. The Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) uses the all-new Sonata's forward-facing sensor technology to recognize defined lanes situated ahead of the vehicle. If the LDWS detects departure from the current lane of travel, a warning signal is issued through a visual symbol on the dashboard, accompanied with an audible warning. To ensure drivers of oncoming vehicles are not distracted by the all-new Sonata's headlights at night, the High Beam Assist (HBA) function automatically detects an approaching vehicle and dips the high beam headlights to reduce glare. When the system no longer detects a vehicle ahead, it re-activates the high beam headlights to provide a clearer field of vision for the driver. In crash safety performance tests, the all-new Sonata is expected to achieve top-class results through careful design which ensures the car effectively distributes crash energy. Frontal impact forces are absorbed and distributed through the mid-section to minimize cabin distortion. In terms of side and rear collision tests, the all-new Sonata provides high levels of occupant protection thanks to inherent strength achieved through the use of hot-stamped steel with dual layer reinforcement, and independent side airbag technology specially designed to protect occupant's upper bodies in the event of an accident. Pedestrian safety was also a prime consideration, resulting in the provision of a durable and weight-optimized hood structure, and a scuttle panel that offers increased head protection safeguards. 5. Convenience The all-new Sonata delivers uncompromising convenience and generous interior space, together with elegant interior details, offering luxury typically associated with vehicles from the class above. For front seat passengers, the all-new Sonata features integrated, height-adjustable seats that have been developed to maximize comfort and convenience. They are also vented to cool passengers under humid conditions, and heated to provide warmth during cold weather, faster than the previous version. The high levels of comfort extend to rear-seat passengers who benefit from heated seats, an electric rear window blind and rear side curtain blinds â" a segment-first feature. Personal reading lights provide rear passengers with directed illumination, while the new car's spacious interior and slim front seat backs mean there is plenty of legroom for all occupants. A panoramic sunroof brings a sense of the outside into the cabin of the all-new Sonata, and ensures a light and refreshing atmosphere is maintained at all times. Throughout the vehicle, elegant hand-crafted details can be found, utilizing high-end environmentally-friendly materials. Advanced vehicle infotainment features, including sophisticated next-generation multi-media systems, ensure the all-new Sonata delivers cutting-edge entertainment and connectivity to drivers and passengers. A range of options are available, starting with a 3.8" LCD display, moving up to 8.0" color touchscreen units, each of which utilize intuitive, clear ergonomic displays. Supporting USB, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, the all-new Sonata also features voice recognition and smartphone integration. Further convenience is provided by the all-new Sonata's Smart Trunk function. Using the vehicle's smart key, the system can be activated (in the user settings menu) to open the trunk automatically when the smart key is detected near the rear bumper for longer than three seconds. Unlike competitor systems, the Smart Trunk function does not utilize an under-fender kick-sensor, but employs a fender-mounted antenna to receive its instruction to operate, providing an illuminated and audible warning prior to opening. This allows users to keep both feet on the ground at all times during operation â" more convenient and safer when both hands are full, for example. 6. NVH Improving NVH levels over the previous generation Sonata was an important area of focus for Hyundai Motor engineers developing the all-new Sonata. A result is noticeably lower audible levels of noise for occupants of the all-new Sonata. Levels of engine and transmission NVH have been kept to a minimum through minimized acceleration noise and additional damping of the transmission mounting points. Audible (rumbling) road and engine (booming) noise is kept to an absolute minimum inside the all-new Sonata, thanks to soundproofing materials that have been used to reduce apertures through which noise could potentially be transmitted into the cabin. Across the available range of powertrains engineers reduced high-RPM booming, refined engine tones to provide a greater sense of smooth acceleration, and removed unwanted and intrusive additional noises. Refined suspension damping achieves a soft, quiet and comfortable ride, creating a calm, luxurious and peaceful ambiance. Improvements to braking performance were also concentrated on reducing NVH levels, and the all-new Sonata achieves the lowest levels of braking NVH for a vehicle in its class. The all-new Sonata benefits from a reinforced firewall that uses an integrated dual-member construction, increasing strength and improving NVH levels. Sound absorption underneath the car has also been maximized, with the addition of a specially designed under cover that utilizes glass fiber reinforced polypropylene expansion board material. The on-road behavior of the all-new Sonata has been engineered to ensure a sophisticated and relaxing ride, achieving optimal levels of quietness for a car in its class. A soft, refined attitude with low volume NVH gives the all-new Sonata a key competitive advantage over its rivals. 7. Powertrain The all-new Sonata offers a wide range of engine and transmission options that deliver enhanced performance. With an emphasis on practicality, the powertrains of all-new Sonata have been carefully engineered and tuned for precise power delivery and maximum refinement. A range of MPi and GDi engines deliver maximum drivability in all driving conditions, thanks to improvements that mean plentiful torque and power are available across a wider range of engine speeds. Carefully-matched smooth-shifting transmissions ensure maximum availability of full engine output and contribute to a smooth and relaxing ride for occupants. While the all-new Sonata is equipped with 2.0 CVVL, 2.4 GDi, 2.0 LPi for the Korean market, variations will vary, depending on each market. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive Transmissions: 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual Suspension and damping: Front: MacPherson strut front suspension Rear: Multi-link rear suspension Steering: Type: MDPS (Motor Driven Electric Power Steering) Overall steering gear ratio: 14.3 Steering wheel turn (lock to lock): 2.78 Minimum turning radius: 5.45 (m)