Hyundai’s relentless pursuit to upstage its Japanese rivals continues apace with the latest seventh-generation renewal of its Sonata D-segment sedan. Available in showrooms nationwide from 15 December onwards, the all-new Sonata LF is the culmination of a three-year development programme that sought to deliver comprehensive all-round improvement from its YF predecessor, a car which made considerable waves when it was launched in 2010.
The new model expands and builds upon the fine USPs established by the YF, blending expressive styling with commendable value for money. Hyundai’s distinctive Fluidic Sculpture design language, which incidentally debuted in the YF, evolves into the more refined Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 that tones down some of the earlier iteration’s fussiness for a more upmarket appearance.
Depending on model, forward illumination range between halogen projectors and bi-xenons, but rear fog lights and daytime running lights, both LED-illuminated, are standard. Multi-spoke alloy rims are also standard, available in measurements of 17 and 18 inches, with corresponding tyre sizes of 215/55 and 235/45 respectively.
Beneath its evolved sheet metal, the Sonata LF sits on newly-designed underpinnings with electric power steering introduced to replace the YF’s hydraulic rack and a reworked suspension setup that is claimed to offer enhanced steering response up front and better stability at the rear. Some 51% of the new LF’s body is made of advanced high strength steel, and Hyundai claims that it is 41% stronger in twisting and 35% stronger in bending compared to the previous car.
In the engine room, Hyundai has opted to offer the Malaysian market with only one powertrain, and it is the 2.0-litre Nu engine that was introduced during the YF’s midlife facelift and continues to see action in the Tucson. Utilizing port fuel injection and dual variable valve timing, the all-aluminium four-cylinder engine generates 152hp and 194Nm, which it sends to the front wheels via an in-house sourced 6-speed automatic transmission.
A total of three variants are on offer with the new Sonata, and as before, all three offer excellent complement of features for very reasonable money. The RM143,163.30 (with insurance) Elegance B model starts off on strong footing by offering dual airbags, electronic stability control, tilt & telescopic steering, leather seats, electric driver seat adjustment, dual-zone air conditioning with rear blowers, cruise control, and keyless entry.
Occupying middle ground is the RM149,845.30 Elegance spec which upgrades to six airbags, front parking sensors, and a factory-fitted Android-based audio-visual navigator with Bluetooth connectivity and reverse camera integration. Finally, the range topping Executive model at RM158,053.30 enjoys the exclusivity of self-leveling bi-xenon headlamps, electric front passenger seat adjustment, automatic wipers, electrochromic rear view mirror, and panoramic sunroof. All versions of the Sonata are also additionally fitted with a windscreen-mounted journey recorder with 3-hour continuous recording capacity, 3-axis impact sensor, and GPS.
Besides generous equipment levels, buyers of the Sonata LF will also get to enjoy 2 years complimentary membership in Hyundai’s Leader programme offering a range of concierge benefits to its members. For further peace of mind, the Sonata’s engine and transmission are covered by an 8-year / 300,000km non-transferable warranty, meaning the warranty does not go to the next owner if the vehicle is sold; rest of the vehicle, however, is covered by a 5-year / 300,000km warranty, which is transferable.
Keyword: All-new Hyundai Sonata LF launched in Malaysia