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The new Sonata was introduced today and people already talk about pros and cons, but in this article by TorqueNews.com, Hyundai reporter Keith Griffin has a very interesting paragraph discussing how upscale 2015 Sonata can harm the 2015 Hyundai Genesis sales.
The first thing wrong with the 2015 Hyundai Sonata would be it's not getting a new powertrain best that we can tell. It will get the 2.4-liter gas direct injection four-cylinder engine it currently has. Power and torque looks to be about the same at 193 hp (the current model has 190 hp) with the current model producing 179 lb. ft. of torque vs. 182 lb. of feet for the new model. So, it's basically a wash.
There was a commotion last week when it was revealed Hyundai unveiled inaccurate fuel economy numbers for the 2015 Sonata. It appears fuel economy, at least by Korean domestic standards, may not improve that much. Its stated to be 28.4 mpg but the current model gets 28 mpg.
What could also be wrong with the Sonata is it could cannibalize sales from the Hyundai Genesis that is being introduced to consumers in April. The Sonata has gone so upscale in its interior that it could take some sales (but it will have a much weaker powertrain and that could hold off potential buyers).
OK, so those are a couple things that are wrong with the 2015 Sonata. Lets take a moment to focus on the positive and tell you, in our opinion, what's right with the new midsize sedan.
As the press release pointed out: "the new model utilizes a modified Hyundai Motor platform that has been optimized to offer a dynamic driving experience. The car’s newly designed underpinnings contribute to an improvement in suspension performance and a greater structural rigidity over the previous generation model, resulting in 41% greater torsional strength and 35% greater bending strength than the outgoing model." Better ride and handling are always a good thing.
Its interior looks are stunning (see photo above). Quoting the press release, "For front seat passengers, the all-new Sonata features integrated, height-adjustable seats that have been developed to maximize comfort and convenience. They are also vented to cool passengers under humid conditions, and heated to provide warmth during cold weather, faster than the previous version."
As Hyundai points out, "The high levels of comfort extend to rear-seat passengers who benefit from heated seats, an electric rear window blind and rear side curtain blinds – a segment-first feature."
These are just a few things right and wrong about the 2015 Hyundai Sonata. Add your thoughts below. We'll be exploring more in the days to come.
