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Hyundai Unveils 2006 Sonata in Paris

Hyundai Continues Its Self Reinvention

As usual, gears, wheels and show stand turntables are turning at motor shows across the world, but at Hyundai booth in Paris this September heads were twisting around as well with the unveiling of the all-new Sonata midsize sedan. The South Korean brand has struggled hard to develop an image for itself since it arrived in North America in the late 80s, and its work over the last few years is starting to pay off. Credit is being given for their affordable yet reliable vehicles, and a name is being forged in rally and touring car racing series. Covering nearly every vehicle segment in the marketplace, bar the pickup truck category that the brand has announced it is planning on entering in the not too distant future, Hyundai continues its self reinvention with the stylish new Sonata.

Considering the extremely formal, four-eyed baroque styling

Heads were turning with the unveiling of the all-new Hyundai Sonata midsize sedan. (Photo: Hyundai Motor America)

of the current EF-body Sonata, the upcoming 2006 model may have people questioning their eyesight. The fifth generation thats currently on sale no doubt be forgotten thanks to the sharp, modern appearance of chiseled, transparent-lensed headlamps, and strongly defined hoodlines and grille. Like many other manufacturers, it seems that Hyundai has chosen Volkswagen as a benchmark for styling. The new Sonata is just dripping with cues from the super-luxury Phaeton at both front and in back. Slivers of chrome, to accent the front bumpers, windshield pillars and window surrounds give a substantial touch of class to the

The new cars conventional if not handsome profile hides the physical gains. (Photo: Hyundai Motor America)

midsize sedan.

The sharply penned body of the Sonata looks smaller than the soft, gelatinous models that preceded it, but this is an optical illusion. The cars conventional if not handsome profile hides the physical gains the new generation has added, namely a 2.4 inch length increase, and a 1.2 inch wheelbase increase. Total figures show that the Sonata now measures in at 189.0 inches in length, 72.0 inches in width, 58.3 inches in height with a wheelbase of 107.5 inches. Not surprisingly, the new design is also sportier than previous models, featuring fog lamps, twin oval tailpipes, with larger wheels on lower profile tires.

No matter your take on the exterior, the

The new Sonatas interior is a great improvement over models past. (Photo: Hyundai Motor America)

vote will be unanimous that the new cars interior is a great improvement over models past. Hyundai is closing the gap on the dull interiors of mainstream Japanese-American competition by offering a tasteful and luxurious cabin. Two-toned plastics, often seen on executive vehicles well out of the Sonatas price range have been used, adding a unique feel while brightening up the cockpit. The hues are separated by mock burled wood trim, applied to the console, and on high-level models, the steering wheel and shifter knob. Perceived quality seems to have improved, but North Americans may not be so keen for lurid orange instrument lighting.

As always, the Sonata has value for the dollar on its side. While pricing has yet to be announced the specification list has, and it includes more than most midsize buyers would expect.

The Sonata has finally received the engine lineup that it has always deserved. (Photo: Hyundai Motor America)

Features such as xenon-beam headlamps, a large-format color LCD screen with DVD navigation, leather trim, park assistance, and a premium audio system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer will be available at extra cost, but its what comes standard that will impress. Adjustable pedals, parking sensors, curtain-style air bags and digital climate control will be part of the package, depending on jurisdiction.

With this latest redesign, the Sonata will finally receive the engine lineup that it has always deserved. Of course, to cater to those who need a large family vehicle but are on a tight budget, there will be a wide range of four-cylinders available. Originally developed for the Elantra and for the Spectra in Hyundais fellow company Kia, the starter motor will be a 143 horsepower 2.0-liter, with a second 165 horsepower 2.4-liter motor acting as an upgrade. Both feature four cylinders, sixteen valves and variable

The new top-tier motor is a 3.3-liter V6 producing 229 horsepower. (Photo: Hyundai Motor America)

valve timing as well as all-alloy construction. Co-developed with DaimlerChrysler and its partially-owned Mitsubishi partner, its expected that these entry-level motors will help the Sonata to be more competitive against its rivals.

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