Hyundai Sonata New Rise (Facelift) Launched in Korea
The Hyundai Sonata has been on the market in Korea for 3 years, which means it’s time for a refreshed model to take center stage.
The Sonata New Rise, as it’s being called, has just debut as a 2018 model, and it features several mid-cycle changes.
A US-spec version is expected to be shown off in April at the New York Auto Show, and the belief is that the domestic model in Korea provides us a good look at some of the things we will see with the North American release.
That includes a bold new exterior style, as well as several features designed to assist the driver on the road.
Exterior styling changes
If you have seen the new Elantra, then you have an idea of the new body style of the Sonata facelift, which features a completely redesigned front fascia, as well as a signature grille that comes in two different looks.
Horizontal chrome bars are featured on the base Sonata model, while sportier mesh grille is used for the higher trim levels, such as the Turbo.
The all-new Sonata 2.0 turbo serves as the top of the range model, and features blackout trim pieces, as well as black chrome accents in the door handles and other areas of the vehicle.
Brighter chrome accents can also be seen on the rear diffuser and exhaust outlets.
Every trim level of the facelifted Hyundai midsize sedan comes with new taillight graphics, 17- or 18-inch wheels (dependent on trim), and a host of other subtle styling changes.
What’s new inside?
There are a number of changes made to the interior of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata New Rise, both visually and functionally.
These include such things as new user-friendly HVAC controls, a redesigned steering wheel, a rear-seat USB port, and an optional wireless charger for smartphones.
Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard.
Things are even more dramatic with the Sonata New Rise Turbo, which comes with sport bucket seats in front, as well as a shift knob that allows the driver to easily switch between Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart drive modes.
Sonata engine, gearbox updates
Most of the powertrains in the Korean market carry over. There is one exception, though, the gearbox. The existing 6-speed automatic has been replaced by a Hyundai’s new 8-speed automatic transmission, which should be the same one coming in the US model.
Hyundai Sonata pricing in Korea
Starting price will be 22.5 million won ($22,100), all the way up to 32.5 million won ($28,500).
New color options
The Hyundai Sonata New Rise will have some cool new exterior color to show off, including Blue Sapphire, Valentine Red, and Grand Blue.
These new hues have been added in an attempt to attract a younger audience.
2018 Hyundai Sonata US release date
It’s not unusual for Hyundai or Kia to deliver a new model to the domestic market before releasing it in the US.
The official word out of Hyundai is that the Sonata 2018 (model year) will go global later in the year.
If the new model does not arrive stateside in time for the New York show, then expect the unveiling to come in LA in the fall, with the release coming shortly after that.
