Sonata, a Mid-Size Sedan from Hyundai

Sonata, a Mid-Size Sedan from Hyundai - Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size sedan made by South Korean automobile manufacturer Hyundai Motor Company.

Hyundai Sonata interior

First Generation

Hyundai Sonata first generation was launched in South Korea in 1985. There are 2 variants of 1.8L or 2.0L engine, 4 cylinder in line. The car body is a development of the Hyundai Stellar. The transmission types provided are 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual.

Hyundai Sonata First Generation

Second Generation

Hyundai Sonata second generation is one part of Hyundai's expansion in the North American market, after the success of the Hyundai Excel. It was firstly launched in Korea on June 1, 1988. And launched in Canada in September 1988 and the U.S. in 1989. The exterior was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro an Italian car designer. This car was refurbished in mid-1991. Second Generation Sonata is produced in Ulsan, Korea, and Quebec, Canada.

Hyundai Sonata Second Generation

Hyundai Sonata was designed with Mitsubishi technology assistance. 2.4L 110 hp engine from the Galant fourth generation mounted on the Sonata for the U.S. market. 3.0L V6 engine (coded 6G72) available from Mitsubishi in 1990. In 1992 in the United States, 2.4L engine was replaced with a 2.0L engine.

Third Generation

Third-generation Sonata made its debut in 1993. 2.0L engine used is Sirius 4 cylinder-powered 77 kW (105 PS, 103 hp), but in some countries there is also a 3.0 V6 engine powered 107 kW (145 PS, 143 hp). All these machines are owned by Mitsubishi engines.

Hyundai Sonata Third Generation

Facelift version (renewal) was launched in 1996. The replacements were performed on the front and rear body, and 4 cylinder engine that increases power to 92 kW (125 PS, 123 hp).

Fourth Generation

The fourth generation Sonata equipped with 2.0L engine 136hp, 138hp 2.4L and 2.5L 170hp Hyundai Sirius (127kW) Hyundai Delta V6. Special warranty for 10 years is also provided.

Hyundai Sonata Fourth Generation

Kia Optima (Magentis outside the U.S.) are also made based on the same platform with this Sonata  fourth generation.

Hyundai Sonata also shared a platform with the Hyundai Santa Fe's first generation.

That is all about Sonata, a Mid-Size Sedan from Hyundai, from the first to fourth generation. Next post  will be Hyundai Sonata Fifth and Sixth Generation