30 Years of Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai is celebrating the 30th anniversary for the iconic Sonata mid-size sedan. The Sonata made its debut in 1985 in Korea, playing a pivotal role in Hyundai’s growth and reputation. With more than 7.3 million Sonata models sold since its introduction, Sonata has become a family sedan loved by customers all around the world.

“The Sonata has been a huge factor in Hyundai’s growth not only in the U.S., but around the world,” said Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “During its 30-year history, we have been able to craft and evolve Sonata to the ever-changing needs of our customers. And, with the Sonata family growing this summer to include the all-new Sonata Plug-In Hybrid, we’re expanding an already diverse lineup with something for everyone.”

In the U.S., Sonata was introduced in 1988 and helped Hyundai grow into one of the country’s top automakers. Since then, Hyundai Motor America has sold more than 2.3 million units in the U.S., including nearly 80,000 Sonata Hybrid models since its 2011 U.S. introduction.

SONATA GENERATIONS

1st Generation Sonata (1985)

The 1st Generation Sonata was one of Hyundai’s first models designed exclusively by Hyundai’s in-house design teams. The 1st Generation started the Sonata legacy by exceeding 1 million unit sales in Korea for a single model line for the first time.

2nd Generation Sonata (1988)

Unlike the 1st Generation model, which was rear-drive, the 2nd Generation Sonata employed a front-wheel drive system for enhanced interior packaging efficiency. As Korea’s first independently-designed model, it departed from angular design language and adopted a more organic, aerodynamic design. The facelift of this generation, launched in 1991, was the first model to be badged with the newly revised Hyundai logo.

3rd Generation Sonata (1993)

The 1990s marked the acceleration of digital technologies replacing traditional analog technologies. The 3rd Generation Sonata leveraged this consumer trend, enjoying robust sales due to many advanced features, including automatic side mirrors and anti-lock braking system (ABS) technologies.

4th Generation Sonata (1998)

The 4th Generation Sonata, launched in 1998, was the best-selling model in Korea from February 1999 to August 2000. This generation was sold in Europe and was equipped with an in-house developed engine and a Hyundai Intelligent Vehicle Electronic Control (HIVEC) transmission. It was also the highest scoring mid-size sedan in the 2004 J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey in the U.S.

5th Generation Sonata (2004)

The 5th Generation Sonata was designed to be a world-class mid-size sedan as a fundamental development target. This generation of Sonata adopted a European design theme, offering premium character and road presence. Equipped with significantly advanced features and a top-ranked safety rating, the 5th Generation Sonata received near universal praise from automotive media and customers alike.

6th Generation Sonata (2009)

The 6th Generation Sonata was one of the first Hyundai models to employ the industry-leading Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy. Its bold and compelling design, powerful, efficient engine and solid performance created a new sensation in mid-size sedan markets throughout the world with record sales, solidifying Sonata in the minds of consumers as one of the Hyundai’s most recognizable models. In addition, the Sonata Hybrid model was introduced globally on the Sonata platform in 2010.

7th Generation Sonata (2014)

The latest 7th Generation Sonata has further refined and balanced the convention-shattering version of Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy, raising the bar for the mid-size sedan segment in both design and performance. Further, the all-new Sonata expanded its powertrain offerings with two additional eco-friendly models, including the Sonata Hybrid unveiled in 2014, and the first Sonata Plug-In Hybrid model, introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2015.

2015 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID NAMED A 10 MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT CAR UNDER $25,000 BY KBB.COM

The 2015 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was named a 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Car Under $25,000 by Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. With an industry-exclusive Hybrid Lifetime Battery Warranty, an EPA-estimated 40 mpg highway rating and no increase in price from 2014, Sonata Hybrid is as practical as it is efficient.

“The Sonata Hybrid not only provides consumers value with class-leading technology and design, but also alleviates price pain at the pump,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of corporate and product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Hyundai is committed to be a leader in alternative fuel vehicles and to increase our green footprint across our lineup.”

The 2015 Sonata Hybrid features an electric motor coupled to the 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. When in pure electric drive, the Sonata Hybrid can drive electrically up to 74 miles per hour. The Sonata Hybrid utilizes the all-electric mode during optimal moments, such as highway driving, and saves the gasoline engine start-up for conditions that require a heavier dose of power. All of this translates to improved efficiency and money saved for the driver.

“The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offers all the upscale feel and luxury features of the conventionally powered Sonata, but with the added benefits of a transparent hybrid drive system that delivers exceptional fuel economy,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director, KBB.com. “The fact that the model also offers an exceptionally long warranty is the cherry atop the sundae.”

2015 HYUNDAI SONATA NAMED TOP RATED VEHICLE

    Hyundai’s 2015 Sonata continues to add to its list of accolades, being named a Top Rated Vehicle by car-shopping website Edmunds.com. The vehicle was praised for its suite of standard safety and convenience features, refined styling, and range of efficient and powerful engines. 

“The Sonata’s value is bolstered by its class-leading safety features, including lane departure warning and frontal collision warning systems,” said Scott Oldham, editor in chief, Edmunds.com. “Combined with its sophisticated design, refined ride and handling characteristics, and a great selection of powertrains, the Sonata really is everything you could want from a family sedan.”

Every year, the Edmunds Testing Team evaluates more than 200 new vehicles in 10 categories. Each vehicle is driven on a standardized road-test loop and visits the publication’s test track for instrumented testing in controlled conditions. Editors’ time behind the wheel is used to develop ratings that grade how a car stacks up against its direct rivals in its size and price class. After evaluation, each vehicle is given an overall score, and those that receive an “A” are named Edmunds’ Top Rated Vehicles.

“The Sonata was designed and engineered with safety and convenience at its core,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, corporate and product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “By offering our accident prevention technologies as standard, we are continuing our dedication to best-in-class occupant safety. Similarly, by making features such as Apple® CarPlay and Android® Auto available to consumers, the Sonata is one of the most family friendly cars on the road today.”

Sonata’s suite of safety features aims to help prevent accidents and maximize the safety of its occupants in the event of a collision. The 2015 Sonata is equipped with standard Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Traction Control, ABS and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure indicator help the vehicle maintain traction in all weather conditions.