By Park Jin-hai
Hyundai Motor launched three new types of its flagship midsize sedan Sonata in an effort to gain a greater share in its target markets, including China.
By adding the Sonata 1.7 diesel, 1.6 turbo and plug-in hybrid, the carmaker insisted that it has completed its full lineup with seven powertrains, including the previously launched Sonata 2.0 CVVL, 2.0 turbo, hybrid and LPi.
Hyundai said the two new Sonata sedans feature improved fuel efficiency, while the plug-in hybrid model, the first domestically produced plug-in hybrid vehicle, is expected to awaken idling demand for eco-friendly cars in the local market.
The new Sonata diesel mounting a U2 1.7 engine and seven-speed dual clutch transmission has a maximum 141 horsepower, with 34.7 kilogram-meter torque.
Its fuel efficiency has improved 33 percent, in comparison to the previously launched popular 2.0 CVVL model. Its combined fuel efficiency can reach 16.8 kilometers per liter.
The 1.6 turbo version has a maximum 180 horsepower, with the maximum combined fuel economy of 13.4 kilometers per liter of fuel, up 6 percent from the previous 2.0 CVVL model.
The plug-in hybrid version can run 44 kilometers only using the electricity, Hyundai said. Its mileage stands at 17.2 kilometers per liter on hybrid mode and 4.6 on EV mode.
The base price for the Sonata turbo starts at 24.1 million won, while the price tag for the diesel model starts from 24.95 million won. The basic Sonata plug-in hybrid is priced at 39.95 million.