Hyundai Motor unveiled its 5th generation Sonata earlier today in Seoul.
Sonata’s reign as Korea’s best-selling car was ensured today when Hyundai Motor Co. rolled out the all-new replacement. — Hyundai's i10 launch in India.
Three years and ten months in the making, the new mid-size car was developed under the NF project codename and has been thoroughly redesigned inside and out. Power comes from the all-new Theta engine which is being made available in 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter displacements. Equipped with Variable Valve Timing on the intake ports, a vibration- and noise-reducing balance shaft and a weightsaving all-aluminum cylinder block and head, the Theta engine delivers more power and consumes less fuel than its predecessor.
“The new Sonata raises the bar in every measurable category and will reinforce our message that Hyundai is the new quality leader,” said Kim Dong-Jin, vice chairman and ceo. — Tiburon Coupe at Guangzhou Motor Show.
The new Sonata goes on sale in the Korean market Sept. 1st will have its international unveiling at the Paris Motor Show on Sept. 23. In January 2005, it will be introduced in the United States at Detroit’s North American International Auto Show and in the spring of 2005, the car will go into production at the company’s new plant in Montgomery Alabama.
Domestic buyers are offered three trim levels N20, F24 and F24S. Equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox, the entry-level N20 retails for 16,250,000 won. For top-of-the-line buyers, Hyundai offers the F24S which retails for just over 25 million won and comes with the 2.4-liter Theta engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstered seats and door trim, VDC, sunroof, DVD navigation system. — Kia's Frankfurt Show debuts.
To unify and standardize branding, the car will sell in Korea and around the world under the Sonata badge. Its predecessor retailed in Korea under the EF Sonata badge.
Hyundai aims to sell 300,000 Sonatas globally next year: 100,000 in the domestic market and 200,000 overseas. This year’s domestic sales target has been set at 40,000 units. — Ssangyong's Rexton II.
Official world-wide debut is scheduled for the Paris Motor Show later this month.
