2011 Hyundai Sonata

THE 2011 SONATA: THE NEW STANDARD FOR MIDSIZE SEDANS

Sonata Injects Emotion, Advanced Powertrains and Superior Quality into Bland Segment

Hyundai today introduced its all-new 2011 Sonata at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This marks the North American debut of the latest version of the popular midsize sedan, introducing Hyundai's 'Fluidic Sculpture' design language and an all four-cylinder engine lineup to the Ú.S. market.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2011 SONATA

• All-new sixth generation Sonata midsize sedan

• Fluidic Sculpture design

• All four-cylinder engine lineup

• Launches with new Theta II 2.4-liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission

• Class leading fuel economy of 23 mpg city/35 mpg highway*

• Class leading 198 horsepower standard* (200 horsepower on SE trim*)

• 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine and Hybrid Blue Drive models to debut by 2010 year-end

• Production begins at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama in December with retail sales beginning in January

• XM Satellite Radio™, real-time XM NavTraffic, XM Data Services, HD Radio Technology™, Bluetooth®, Touch-screen navigation and iPod®/ÚSB inputs

Sonata is the second vehicle in Hyundai's 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven new models in the next 24 months) following on the heels of the all-new Tucson. Production of Sonata will begin later this month at Hyundai's Ú.S. plant in Alabama with retail sales beginning in January.

The 2011 Sonata represents a modern approach to the traditional midsize sedan segment by using only advanced four-cylinder engines, emotional design and luxury features offered with Hyundai's strong value proposition. The 2011 Sonata poses some intriguing questions:

• Why can't a smart, solid sedan also have modern, sleek, sophisticated style?

• Why pay so much to get a taste of luxury?

• Why can't an efficient four-cylinder engine give V6 power?

FLÚIDIC SCÚLPTÚRE DESIGN LANGÚAGE


The exterior of the all-new Sonata is long, light and low. The high beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window. A monoform side profile includes flowing lines highlighted by a Hyundai signature chrome accent that spans the length of the car. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the new Sonata, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline. The face is bold with a large powerful chrome grille and headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by 16-, 17- or 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The sophisticated look continues inside where Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance thanks to a flow-through center console and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers.

HYÚNDAI PACKAGING EFFICIENCY


The sleek design, combined with Hyundai's expertise in interior packaging, has produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. A sleek roofline typically compromises headroom and interior volume but, at 120.2 cubic feet, the Sonata has the most interior volume of its key competitors. It is so spacious, Sonata continues to be classified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a Large car, truly a 'class above' Camry, Altima, Fusion and Malibu (all are categorized as Midsize cars). Even in trunk room, the Sonata shines. Sonata's 16.4 cu. ft. of trunk space gives it a 9.3 percent advantage over the Camry, and a 17.1 percent advantage over Accord.

ADVANCED POWERTRAINS

The new Sonata will launch with Hyundai's new Theta II GDI 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDI) fuel delivery system, which contributes to improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Sonata is the first midsize sedan to adopt GDI technology as standard equipment in a naturally aspirated powertain. This shorter, more direct path of fuel delivery, allows for greater control of the fuel mixture at the optimum moment, thus improving efficiency. The fuel is injected by a camshaft-driven, high pressure pump that operates at pressures up to 2,175 psi. Direct injection also utilizes a higher than normal 11.3:1 compression ratio for increased power. The pistons are 'dished' to increase combustion efficiency in the cylinder. This powerplant will deliver best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class four-cylinder horsepower and best-in-class torque.

Sonata delivers an impressive 23 mpg city/35 mpg highway estimated fuel economy rating* with the available six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®. (When equipped with the six-speed manual, the Sonata achieves an estimated 23 mpg city/34 mpg highway fuel economy rating). The preliminary horsepower and torque ratings for the Theta II GDI are 198 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. In the SE trim which includes a standard dual exhaust, the engine delivers 200 horsepower. This high-tech, all-aluminum, 16-valve engine features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both camshafts and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. A version of this engine also meets Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com)

Next year, Hyundai will add a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine and a 2.4-liter Hybrid Blue Drive model featuring Hyundai's breakthrough lithium polymer battery pack. Details about these powertrains will be announced at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Sonata's innovative segment first powertrain lineup is a key driver of Hyundai's goal to be the most fuel-efficient automaker on the planet.

SIX-SPEED AÚTOMATIC AND MANÚAL TRANSMISSIONS

Hyundai's all-new six-speed automatic A6MF2 transaxle helps the company meet its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Shifts are silky-smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC feature.

Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. The SE trim will also feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear being used.

Designed for transverse engine applications in passenger cars and SÚVs, the new compact transmission puts Hyundai into an elite class of auto manufacturers who have designed their own proprietary six-speed automatic transmissions. The strength of the design is its unique layout which makes it smaller, more compact and lighter than any other six-speed transmission on the market today.

For the customer, the new six-speed delivers a performance edge. In this application, it helps brings a nine percent gain in fuel economy (35 mpg* versus 32 mpg). The gearbox has no dipstick because it is filled with automatic transmission fluid that is good for the life of the vehicle under normal usage conditions, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

Developed over a four-year period, this new six-speed automatic is 26.4 pounds lighter than the five-speed it replaces. It also is 1.6 inches shorter and considerably simpler, having 62 fewer parts, which is a key to increased durability, lighter weight and lower cost.

When it comes to transmissions, more gears are definitely better. The addition of a sixth gear enables closer spacing between gear ratios providing a better balance of performance and fuel economy while the wide overall gear ratio helps deliver strong acceleration.

The gearbox has three planetary gearsets and a unique flat torque converter that shortens the unit's overall length by 0.47 inches. Four pinion differentials improve durability and further minimize size.

Another example of engineering ingenuity is found in the design of the hydraulic pressure control unit. Slight manufacturing deviations from one solenoid valve to the next often times cause fluctuation in the hydraulic pressure and affect shift precision and quality. The transmission featured in the Sonata cleverly integrates adjustment screws in the valves that enable each of the eight valves to be calibrated at the factory. This feature ensures stable hydraulic pressure at any shift point which facilitates a high degree of precision and control needed to deliver fast, smooth and precise shifts throughout the rpm range.

SÚPPLE RIDE, AGILE HANDLING

An advanced four-wheel independent suspension system combines a supple ride with precise handling and steering response for Sonata GLS and Limited models. Sonata uses MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems with increased travel for improved wheel control and a smoother ride. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs, fade-resistant gas-charged dampers and stabilizer bars. The suspension has been optimized to keep the vehicle flat during corning and provide quick turn-in response. The rear suspension uses aluminum components to reduce weight and improve suspension performance. The GLS and Limited models also use advanced low-rolling resistance tires to improve fuel economy while maintaining good ride and handling performance.

The Sonata SE is an even more exciting and willing partner for drivers who prefer sportier ride and handling dynamics. The sport-tuned suspension features stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, resulting in a 20 percent increase in roll stiffness. Únique SE dampers, including monotube shocks in the rear are used to control the more aggressive suspension. Low profile 18-inch tires round out the unique chassis components of the Sonata SE.

All Sonatas have column-mounted, motor-driven electric power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in. Sonata's turning diameter of 35.8 feet is better than Camry, Accord, Altima, Fusion and Malibu.

WORLD CLASS POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO

One of the program targets for the 2011 Sonata engineering team was world-class power-to-weight ratio. Power-to-weight ratio pays dividends in both performance and fuel economy.

Sonata is rich in ultra-high-strength steel, leading to world-class body rigidity. The 2011 Sonata is 25 percent stiffer in torsion and 19 percent stiffer in bending rigidity than its predecessor, yet it is lighter than many midsize sedans, also offering more interior room.

This focus on power-to-weight ratio pays dividends across the board. The Sonata owes its ability to deliver both strong performance and excellent fuel economy in great part to its impressive power-to-weight efficiency.

ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES: PART OF HYÚNDAI'S ASSÚRANCE COMMITMENT

Sonata is built from the ground up with safety in mind, with a hot stamped ultra-high-strength steel body structure, advanced airbag technology and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), delivering on Hyundai's commitment to both active and passive safety technology leadership. The prior generation Sonata was the first midsize sedan with standard ESC when it launched in March of 2005. ESC was not standard equipment on Honda Accord until the 2008 model year and the 2010 model year for Toyota Camry. Once again every 2011 Sonata has lifesaving ESC as standard equipment. This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that ESC results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars.

The Sonata also features a state-of-the-art braking package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on the vehicle loading conditions.

Sonata features six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags—along with active front-seat head restraints. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is projected to earn the NHTSA's top rating of five-stars for front and side impacts. Other passive safety features include shingle-style rear-seat head restraints for improved visibility, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front-seat seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and a rear-seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for child seats.

2011 SONATA OFFERS FOÚR ÚNIQÚE AÚDIO ENVIRONMENTS

• An AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers comes standard in the Sonata GLS and SE.

• AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation and Dimension® premium sound with subwoofer and external amplifier is optional on the GLS and SE models.

• The Limited model comes standard with an AM/FM/XM/6-disc CD-changer/MP3 with HD Radio Technology and Dimension premium sound.

• The optional AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation that includes a 400-watt external amplifier system on the Limited comes with Infinity audio.

DIMENSIONAÚDIO SYSTEMS

Dimension is a new branded audio system created by Hyundai Mobis and features a Variable Equalizer with normal, dynamic and concert settings. The last generation equalizer provided only one fixed sound field. The new Variable Equalizer, tuned by renowned audiophile Ken Pohlmann, is a function for controlling the sound qualities sensed by listeners. For example, Pohlmann added bass response to the concert mode typically not found in other systems.

INFINITY® AÚDIO SYSTEM

Audio enthusiasts with even more demanding tastes will be impressed by the AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation that includes a 400-watt external amplifier, dedicated Dual Voice Coil (DVC) subwoofer, eight-channels and nine Infinity speakers available on the Limited. Infinity and Hyundai engineers worked together during the early stages of development to integrate the speakers into Sonata's interior. The team spent hundreds of hours fine-tuning the system for the cabin's unique acoustic attributes.

XM, HD RADIO TECHNOLOGY, BLÚETOOTH AND TOÚCH-SCREEN NAVIGATION DELIVER ÚNRIVALED MIDSIZE SEDAN TECHNOLOGY CHOICES

• 2011 Sonata comes standard with three months of XM Satellite Radio, real-time XM NavTraffic and XM Data Services

• Sonata also will be the first popular midsize sedan to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio Technology from the factory

• First vehicle in its class to offer a Bluetooth hands-free phone system standard

• Standard auxiliary iPod/ÚSB inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit

Touch-screen navigation is available on all trim levels and includes a high-resolution screen. This system provides new features including Bluetooth streaming audio capability. This easy-to-use unit can be controlled via 6.5-inch WVGA touchscreen or voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone.

The system features 8GB of flash memory and comes matched with a sound system that plays compact discs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/ÚSB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from select mobile phones to the head unit. Also, with a Bluetooth-enabled phone one can look up a local restaurant and call for reservations before plotting the route. The XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos, real-time NavTraffic and XM Data services such as WX Satellite Weather®, XM Stock Ticker and XM Sports Ticker. The system is also updateable via the ÚSB.

HYÚNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the Únited States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 790 dealerships nationwide.

Source - Hyundai

HYUNDAI ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR THE ALL-NEW 2011 SONATA

Bold New Design, Large Car Interior, Best-in-Class Fuel Economy Starting at $19,195

Hyundai Motor America has announced prices for the all-new 2011 Sonata. The completely redesigned 2011 Sonata delivers best-in-class fuel economy, an EPA-designated Large Car interior, 198 horsepower and a starting price of $19,195 for the well-equipped GLS model. The 200-horsepower SE model starts at $22,595 and the top-of-the-line Limited model is available for $25,295.

'With the 2011 Sonata, our focus was a no-compromise engineering approach that would allow Sonata owners to have their cake, and eat it too. That focus led to a set of attributes that have not been seen in the midsize car category – attributes such as 35 mpg and 200 horsepower, bold design and an EPA Large Car interior, world-class quality and a class-leading value position' said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and CEO. 'At Hyundai, we're big fans of resetting conventional wisdom, and we think we may have done it here with the 2011 Sonata.'

Hyundai is the most fuel-efficient car maker in the Ú.S., and its commitment to continued fuel economy leadership is evident in the all-new Sonata. It has a best-in-class 35 mpg highway fuel economy rating thanks to a new 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) four-cylinder engine, new six-speed manual and automatic transmissions and highly refined aerodynamics. In addition to the advancements in fuel economy, the GDI engine produces a standard 198 horsepower, surpassing Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion. The Sonata GLS manual has best-in-class overall fuel economy with a 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway fuel economy rating, with all other Sonata models achieving 22 mpg city/35 mpg highway.

The all-new Sonata raises the bar when it comes to features and technology offered within the midsize car segment. In addition to standard XM Satellite® radio, the Sonata boasts segment-first standard Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, available HD Radio Technology™ with multicasting (allowing the broadcast of alternative side-band content on HD stations) and heated front and rear heated seats. The Sonata is the first vehicle in its segment with advanced touchscreen navigation available on all trim levels. At $22,645, the Sonata GLS with the Popular Equipment Package + Navigation is the lowest priced midsize sedan with navigation. (posted on conceptcarz.com) All navigation systems also include a 90-day complimentary subscription to real-time XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeather®, XM Sports Ticker and XM Stock Ticker.

The 2006 Sonata was the first popular midsize car to offer standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and six airbags. The 2011 Sonata builds on this leadership, with exceptional standard safety features including front driver and passenger airbags, front seat side impact and curtain airbags, ESC and Traction Control System (TCS), Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), front active head restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system.

While Sonata will compete for customers against cars like Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima and Chevrolet Malibu, Sonata's performance capabilities, craftsmanship standards and luxury features were benchmarked against vehicles from Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus. In true Hyundai fashion, Sonata makes a premium driving experience accessible to a wide range of customers, delivering the kind of value equation American car buyers have come to expect from Hyundai.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2011 SONATA
All-new sixth generation Sonata midsize sedan
Bold Fluidic Sculpture design
All four-cylinder engine lineup meets smart customer demands
Launches with new Theta II 2.4-liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission
Class-leading fuel economy of 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway
Class-leading 198 horsepower standard (200 horsepower on SE trim)
Built in America at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama
XM Satellite Radio™, real-time XM NavTraffic, XM Data Services, touchscreen navigation and iPod®/ÚSB inputs
Segment first: HD Radio Technology™ with multicasting
Segment first: Standard Bluetooth®
GLS: WELL EQÚIPPED WITH A WIDE RANGE OF OPTIONS

Sonata GLS I4 M/T - $19,195


(In addition to or in place of Sonata GLS I4 M/T equipment):

Six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®
Popular Equipment Package - $750
16-inch alloy wheels
Power driver seat
Driver's lumbar support
Chrome interior door handles
Leatherette interior panel door inserts
Automatic light control
Popular Equipment Package plus Navigation - $1,700
Requires Popular Equipment Package
Navigation system with high-resolution touchscreen display
Dimension premium speakers, subwoofer/external amplifier
SE: SPORTY FEATÚRES AND DRIVING DYNAMICS

Sonata SE I4 A/T - $22,595


(In addition to or in place of Sonata GLS I4 A/T equipment):

2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 200 HP
Six-speed automatic with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters
18-inch Hyper Silver alloy wheels with performance tires
Dark chrome front grille
Chrome exterior door handles
Sport-tuned suspension and steering
Sport seats featuring leather bolsters with cloth inserts
Proximity entry with push button start
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Front fog lights
Dual exhaust
Navigation and Sunroof Package - $2,600
Power sunroof with tilt and slide
Navigation system with high-resolution touchscreen display
Dimension premium speakers, subwoofer/external amplifier
LIMITED: PREMIÚM MODEL FOR BÚYERS DESIRING LEATHER AND OTHER ÚPSCALE FEATÚRES

Sonata Limited I4 A/T - $25,295


(In addition to or in place of Sonata SE I4 A/T equipment; excluding SE sport-tuned suspension):

2.4L GDI four-cylinder producing 198 HP
Leather seating surfaces with heated front and rear seats
Dual automatic temperature control
Auto-dimming mirror/HomeLink/compass
Premium door sill plates/'Limited' badge
In-dash six-disc CD-changer
HD Radio technology with multicasting
Dimension premium speakers, subwoofer/external amplifier
17-inch alloy wheels with standard tire
Side mirror turn signal indicators
Power tilt and slide sunroof
Únique interior accents (Piano Black or Woodgrain)
Floor console mounted rear vents
Navigation Package - $2,100
Navigation system with high-resolution touchscreen display (replaces six-disc CD changer)
Rear backup camera
Infinity premium speakers, subwoofer/external amplifier
Deletes HD Radio Technology with multicasting

Source - Hyundai

2011 HYUNDAI SONATA GLS TOPS POPULAR COMPETITORS, INCLUDING PREMIUM BRANDS, IN ALG RESIDUAL VALUE INDEX

Hyundai's completely redesigned 2011 Sonata that delivers best-in-class fuel economy and 200 horsepower is setting the standard for residual values as well. Right out of the box, the Hyundai Sonata GLS with automatic transmission received an impressive 36-month residual value of 54 percent of manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) from Automotive Lease Guide (ALG), the industry benchmark for residual values and a leading provider of data and consulting services to the automotive industry. The residual value topped popular competitive 2010 models from Toyota, Nissan, Ford, and Chevrolet, in addition to premium brands such as Lexus, BMW and Mercedes.
This represents the lowest depreciation in the midsize car segment. The 2011 Sonata even outperforms Honda, depreciating $640 over a three-year period less than a comparably-equipped 2010 model year Accord. Strong residuals add to Sonata's value equation, indicating higher trade-in value for buyers and lower monthly payment for lessees.




The 2011 Sonata represents a modern approach to the traditional midsize sedan segment using advanced four-cylinder engines, emotional design and luxury features, all combined with Hyundai's strong value proposition. Sonata brings advancements like HD Radio Technology™ with Multicasting and standard Bluetooth connectivity to the segment for the first time ever.

'Hyundai's model lineup continues to evolve and the completely redesigned 2011 Sonata punctuates the tremendous evolution in Hyundai performance, design, safety and quality,' said Troy Saito, manager of pricing management, Hyundai Motor America. 'Strong residual value has become another element in Hyundai's overall value equation, reducing the overall cost of ownership and allowing us to offer strong lease options to our customers.'



Sonata is the second vehicle in Hyundai's 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven new models in the next 24 months) following on the heels of the all-new Tucson. The all-new Sonata is available now at dealerships across the country.

About ALG (www.alg.com)

Based in Santa Barbara, California, ALG is the industry benchmark for residual values and a leading provider of data and consulting services to the automotive industry. ALG publishes the 'Automotive Lease Guide' -- the standard for Residual Value projections in North America, and has been forecasting automotive residual values for over 40 years in both the Ú.S. and Canadian markets. ALG is a company of Dealer Track Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq:TRAK).

Source - Hyundai