HYUNDAI has revealed more details about the highly anticipated Sonata N Line, a new model that is certain to inject excitement into the midsize sedan segment, thanks to its ‘sensuously sporty’ styling cues.
The Sonata N Line’s low and wide exterior styling is highlighted by the parametric jewel pattern grille, bold front fascia, wide air intakes and N Line badging.
Arrow-shaped air curtains on the lower fascia support aerodynamic performance and engine cooling, while giving the model a sporty image.
From the side, Sonata N Line’s athletic styling is defined by chiselled body panels that suggest forward momentum. Its side skirts and 19-inch alloy wheels provide an aggressive stance.
The fastback profile merges with a taut sculpted rear, designed to enhance aerodynamic performance and further express the low and wide aesthetic through horizontal lines.
The integrated glossy black lip spoiler, chrome dual twin exhaust and N Line rear diffuser add to the car’s performance-inspired styling.
Interior design elements, including a leather-wrapped perforated N steering wheel with metallic spokes, red-stitched sports seats with leather bolsters, a gearshift with metal accents and leather inserts and alloy pedals, complement its sporty exterior.
N Line-specific mechanicals back up the sedan’s sporty appearance, with a SmartStream 2.5-litre turbocharged GDi engine, mated to the N 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (N DCT) that was developed for N vehicles.
The combination produces 213kW and 422Nm. That makes Sonata N Line the most powerful Sonata ever. The addition of a turbocharger, a different cylinder head, and unique internals significantly upgraded its performance.
Compare that to the standard Sonata’s 142kW normally aspirated 2.5-litre four cylinder engine. The Sonata N Line has a tremendous amount of low and mid-range torque and the motor pulls strongly all the way to its redline.
The N DCT delivers crisp and precise shifts. In addition, engineers implemented several mechanical improvements to Sonata’s chassis to increase stiffness for a gripping performance.
Unique suspension tuning is derived from firmer bushings, higher spring rates, revised shock absorber valving and larger sway bars front and rear; all of which contribute to both everyday commuting drivability as well as excitement on the open road.
It also has a low curb weight, at just 1,636kg. Its turbocharged engine and a well sorted suspension provide comfortable cruising and agile mid-speed cornering. To bring the Sonata N Line to a stop engineers added larger front and rear brake callipers and discs.
A dynamic driving experience is maximised through various features, including rev-match, N power shift, launch control, active sound design and shifting pattern.
The Sonata N Line’s smooth and fast downshifting, quick acceleration, engine roar and assertive sense of acceleration are certain to increase the driver’s pulse on the open road.
Driver oriented features, such as paddle shifters and drive mode selector system, enable a racing inspired experience behind the wheel.
The digital instrument display changes when switched through driving modes, which include Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Custom. In addition to changing the cluster, toggling through them alters the steering weight, speed and strategy of the transmission’s shifts.
The Sonata N Line’s performance is ably assisted by an array of driver assistance and safety technologies, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane follow assist, and advanced smart cruise control with stop and go.
Blind spot collision avoidance assist and reverse parking collision-avoidance assist are also included, and the Sonata N Line comes with a top-of-the-line audio and navigation display.
It has a wide, high definition, customisable, 10.25-inch touchscreen monitor with split screens and natural language, while the cluster supervision display is a full 12.3-inches.
In addition to aforementioned driving mode adjustments, the cluster has four views utility, driver assistance, navigation and parking assistance. Dual Bluetooth support is also available, allowing two devices to be paired at the same time.
The Sonata N Line also offers touch sensor outside door handles, remote start, wireless device charging, and Bose premium audio with 12 speakers and a subwoofer. Further specification, pricing and local launch details will be announced shortly.
