2005 NAIAS: All-New 2006 Sonata: A Hyundai Like You've Never Seen Before

New Sonata Delivers Segment-Leading Safety Equipment, Interior Room and Value

DETROIT, Jan. 10 -- Hyundai today introduced its all-new 2006 Sonata at the North American International Auto Show. This marks the North American debut of the latest version of the popular mid-size sedan, which begins production in March at Hyundai's all-new plant in Montgomery, Alabama. The all-new Sonata was designed specifically to meet the needs of the American consumer and is the product of three years of intensive collaborative development at Hyundai's global R&D operations, including those in Michigan and California.

The new 2006 Hyundai Sonata is an all-new vehicle featuring refined, sophisticated styling and an interior package so roomy its U.S. government size classification is "large car"; a full class above Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima. Sonata sets a new standard for safety with six standard airbags (front, seat-mounted side-impact and side air curtain), standard active front headrests, standard ABS, and for the first time in the mid-size sedan segment, standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The 2006 Hyundai Sonata was designed to achieve five-star ratings in all National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) frontal and side-impact test conditions.

"The new Hyundai Sonata is a milestone vehicle for Hyundai in the United States," said Robert F. (Bob) Cosmai, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "It offers contemporary style, class-above roominess, segment-leading safety features, and outstanding value; it's been developed specifically with American consumers in mind, and it's the first Hyundai built in the U.S. at our new plant in Montgomery, Alabama. The new Sonata also features two all-new, powerful, fuel-efficient engines -- the 2.4-liter Theta inline four-cylinder and the exciting 3.3-liter Lambda V6."

TWO NEW ENGINES

The heart and soul of every vehicle is the engine. The all-new 2006 Hyundai Sonata offers buyers the choice of two sophisticated powertrains delivering the desirable combination of outstanding power and excellent fuel economy.

First is the all-new 2.4-liter Theta DOHC inline four-cylinder engine, rated at 162 horsepower*. This high-tech all-aluminum engine features a balance shaft design, Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), a silent timing chain, stainless steel exhaust manifold and hydraulic motor mounts. This efficient four-cylinder engine is standard on Sonata GL and Sonata GLS four-cylinder models.

Standard on the Sonata GLS V6 and Sonata LX models is an all-new 3.3-liter V6 engine producing more than 237 horsepower*. This engine is the first member of Hyundai's new Lambda engine family and emphasizes an aluminum cylinder block, aluminum cylinder heads, DOHC 24-valve CVVT technology and a Variable Intake System (VIS). The Lambda V6 is fitted to the Sonata front subframe with hydraulic motor mounts to ensure outstanding NVH characteristics.

TRANSMISSION CHOICES

A smooth-shifting five-speed manual is standard on Sonata GL models equipped with the new 2.4-liter engine. A four-speed Shiftronic automatic is available. V6 Sonata models are fitted with Hyundai's all-new five-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission, which features an overdrive lock-up torque converter to improve fuel economy at highway speeds.

SAFETY FEATURES

The 2006 Sonata builds on Hyundai's commitment to safety leadership, which began with Hyundai's standard fitment of side-impact airbags in all Hyundai models beginning in the 2003 model year. (Hyundai was the first non-luxury brand to offer side-impact airbags on all its models as standard equipment.) Hyundai recently launched the all-new Tucson compact SUV, the only under-$20,000 vehicle in the U.S. market with six standard airbags and standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC). All future Hyundai SUVs will feature this level of standard safety equipment.

With the all-new Sonata, Hyundai brings a new level of standard safety content to the mid-size sedan segment. Every Sonata is equipped with advanced dual front airbags, seat mounted side-impact airbags for the driver and front seat passenger, and side curtain airbags designed to help protect the driver, front seat passenger and the outboard rear seat passengers. In addition, the front seats feature active head restraints for extra protection against whiplash in rear end collisions.

The addition of standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), standard Traction Control System (TCS), and standard ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) brings a new level of driving assurance to the mid-size sedan segment buyer. "The benefit of Electronic Stability Control in reducing single-vehicle SUV accidents is clear, but our own research and that done by NHTSA and IIHS indicate there is also a compelling case for equipping passenger cars with this technology," said John Krafcik, vice-president of Product Development and Strategic Planning at Hyundai Motor America. "At Hyundai, we're doing our part to accelerate the implementation of this technology across more vehicle segments. We'd be delighted if other manufacturers choose to follow our lead."

Recent NHTSA studies show passenger cars equipped with Electronic Stability Control experience 35% fewer single vehicle crashes and 30% fewer single vehicle fatalities.

All Sonata models also feature shingle-style rear seat head rests for improved visibility, three-point seat belts for all seating positions, seatbelt pretensioners, load limiters and the child seat LATCH system.

The all-new Sonata was designed with safety as a priority -- from a class-leading, comprehensive list of standard safety features to a robust body structure with engineered crumple zones designed to intelligently absorb impacts. Based on preliminary testing, the 2006 Sonata is projected to perform at a five-star level in U.S. government frontal and side impact testing.

DESIGN

The all-new 2006 Sonata is larger, with a more contemporary, sophisticated design execution than the previous version. The new 2006 Sonata is two inches longer, two inches taller, and features a one-inch longer wheelbase. Sonata is wider than key competition including the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima; an advantage that delivers both a strong stance and increased interior room. Key exterior design elements include a bold, concave hood dome, distinctive rear-door cut line, strong Z-lined body-to-fascia interfaces and four-barrel jeweled projector headlights. V6 models are equipped with chrome-tipped dual exhausts that hint at the 237-plus horsepower* under the hood.

INTERIOR

The 2006 Hyundai Sonata offers a roomy, comfortable cabin with over 120 cubic feet of total interior volume -- a level of spaciousness that places it in the government's "large car" category, literally a class above the mid-size designation of Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Chevrolet Malibu. Compared to the previous Sonata, the all-new 2006 Sonata offers increases in all categories of legroom, headroom, and shoulder room.

To improve overall ergonomics, seating comfort, and entry/egress, Sonata's seating position height (H-point) has been increased an inch. Accessibility and ergonomics are further improved with increased distance between the driver and the A-pillar and more room between the seat cushion and the headliner (accessibility height).

Sonata's trunk volume has increased 16%, and now features a 2.3 cubic feet advantage over the Honda Accord. Its thoughtful design is highlighted by a four-bar link hinge mechanism augmented with two assist struts -- all to maximize trunk access and to assure that items put in the trunk remain undamaged by the trunk-closing hardware.

Tilt steering is standard on all Sonata models, with a telescoping function added on LX models. Every Sonata is equipped with a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, with supplemental steering wheel-mounted audio controls standard on GLS and LX models. Power windows are also standard equipment, including an auto-down/auto-up driver's window with pinch protection. Heated leather seats are standard on the LX model.

SUSPENSION

Sonata provides occupants a smooth, supple ride combined with excellent roadholding ability thanks to an advanced, state-of-the-art, four-wheel independent suspension system with increased suspension stiffness and improved suspension geometry. The front suspension uses double wishbone technology with coil springs, gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers and anti-roll bar. The double-wishbone suspension consists of upper and lower A-arms and features an L-shaped lower arm design that reduces vibration while increasing handling precision. Bushing size has been increased to better isolate road impact and wheel vibration. An isolated top strut mount further improves ride quality.

The sophisticated five-link rear suspension features a trailing link, two longitudinal links and an upper A-arm. This independent coil-spring suspension design helps distribute load impact and vibrations in order to provide better ride comfort. In addition, the upper arm has been moved to the lower cross member to isolate wheel vibration for improved ride quality. This advanced design provides the Sonata with excellent handling characteristics without sacrificing ride quality.

IMPROVED NVH

The new Sonata also delivers class-leading cabin quietness and reduced wind noise. Hyundai designers increased the strength and stiffness of the subframe and body structure to further reduce engine noise and road noise in the cabin. When compared against key competitors Camry and Accord, the 2006 Sonata is quieter at idle, quieter at 60 mph, quieter at wide-open throttle and has significantly less wind noise than both competitors at 68 mph.

QUALITY & VALUE

The all-new 2006 Sonata builds on the quality heritage of the current model, which was the leader in the entry mid-size segment of the 2004 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS). Significant improvements in NVH, body panel fit, ride and handling, and paint quality will ensure that the 2006 Hyundai Sonata delivers the quality and customer satisfaction to which Hyundai buyers have become accustomed.

Although pricing will not be released until launch, the all-new 2006 Hyundai Sonata will continue to set the standard for value in the mid-size segment. A well-equipped 2006 Hyundai Sonata with Electronic Stability Control, six standard airbags and a comprehensive list of other standard equipment is expected to be priced well below $20,000.

SONATA GL

The Sonata GL features standard equipment found only on mid-size sedans costing thousands of dollars more. The GL features Hyundai's sophisticated new 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine matched to a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission. Hyundai's four-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission is available. The long list of standard equipment for the Sonata GL also includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), ABS with EBD, four-wheel disc brakes, six airbags, active front head restraints, keyless entry with alarm, power windows, 16-inch wheels with Michelin MXV tires, door locks, heated side mirrors, AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system, leather- wrapped steering wheel and tilt adjustable steering column. Air conditioning and cruise control are also standard features on the refined new 2006 Hyundai Sonata GL.

SONATA GLS

The Sonata GLS offers all the standard features found on the GL and adds Hyundai's four-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels with Michelin MXV tires, audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, driver's seat lumbar support, automatic light control, trip computer, premium door sill plates, floor mats and fog lights. The GLS is also equipped with chrome window belt molding, metal-grain interior trim accents (with gray interior) or woodgrain interior trim accents (with beige interior).

Available equipment for the Sonata GLS includes a power tilt/slide sunroof and a Premium Package that includes the power tilt/slide sunroof, power driver's seat and an electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink and a compass.

The 2006 Sonata GLS is also available with Hyundai's all-new, high-tech 3.3-liter Lambda V6 engine, dual exhaust and a five-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission. Available equipment for the V6 model includes a power/tilt sunroof and a Premium-Sport Package that includes the power/tilt sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheel/Michelin Pilot tire package, power driver's seat and an electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink and a compass.

SONATA LX

The top-of-the-line 2006 Hyundai Sonata LX model adds even more comfort and luxury with standard equipment that includes leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, power driver's seat, 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with 50-aspect ratio Michelin Pilot tires, automatic temperature control, cabin air filter, automatic air quality system, electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink and compass, sliding center armrest, telescoping steering wheel adjustment and chrome-accented exterior door handles. Available equipment includes power/tilt sunroof and a CD changer with subwoofer and component amplifier.

WARRANTY

In addition to all that value, the all-new 2006 Hyundai Sonata is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance and five-year/60,000-mile rust protection.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif. is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai cars and sport utility vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 650 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.

* Current estimate. Final horsepower rating to be provided at time of vehicle on-sale date.

2006 Hyundai Sonata Technical Specifications (preliminary, subject to change) January 10, 2005 -- Detroit -- ENGINE Type: G4KC Theta DOHC 4-cylinder, inline with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) Materials: aluminum block/aluminum cylinder head Displacement: 2.4 liters (2359cc/143.9 cubic inches) Bore x stroke: 88.0mm x 97.0mm (3.46 inches x 3.82 inches) Compression ratio: 10.5:1 Horsepower: (est.) 160 @ 5,800 RPM Torque: (est.) 166 lb-ft @ 4,250 RPM Valves per cylinder: four Intake system: tuned intake Fuel system: electronic multi-port fuel injection, four-jet fuel injectors, in-tank fuel pump Emission controls: three-way catalyst with EGR . Type: G6DB Lambda DOHC V6 with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) Materials: aluminum block/aluminum cylinder heads Displacement: 3.3 liters (3342cc/203.9 cubic inches) Bore x stroke: 92.0mm x 83.8mm (3.62 inches x 3.30 inches) Compression ratio: 10.4:1 Horsepower: (est.) 220+ @6,000 RPM Torque: (est.) 224 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM Valves per cylinder: four Intake system: Variable Intake System (VIS) Fuel system: electronic multi-port fuel injection four jet fuel injectors, in-tank fuel pump Emission controls: three-way catalyst with EGR TRANSMISSION 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual Gear ratios 1st 3.26:1 2nd 1.79:1 3rd 1.55:1 4th 1.17:1 5th 0.97:1 Reverse 3.41:1 Final-drive ratio 3.44 . 4-cylinder, 4-speed Shiftronic automatic Gear ratios: 1st 2.84:1 2nd 1.52:1 3rd 1.00:1 4th 0.71:1 Reverse 2.48:1 Final-drive ratio 3.77:1 . V6, 5-speed Shiftronic automatic Gear ratios: 1st 3.78:1 2nd 2.06:1 3rd 1.42:1 4th 1.03:1 5th 0.72:1 Reverse 3.80:1 Final-drive ratio 3.33:1 SUSPENSION Front: Independent: double wishbone with coil springs, twin-tube gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers and 27mm anti-roll bar Rear: Independent: multi-link with coil springs, twin tube gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers and 17mm anti-roll bar STEERING Type: Power-assisted rack and pinion, engine RPM sensing Overall ratio: 16.9:1 Turns, lock to lock: 3.28 Turning circle: 35.8 feet/10.92 meters (curb to curb) BRAKES Front: Power-assisted 11.0-inch/280mm x 1.02-inch/26mm vented disc with floating two-piston caliper and pad wear sensor (4-cyl) Power-assisted 11.8-inch (300mm) x 1.10-inch/28mm vented disc with floating two-piston calipers and pad wear sensor (V6) Rear: Power-assisted 10.3-inch/262mm x 0.39-inch/10mm solid disc (4-cyl) Power-assisted 11.1-inch/284mm x 0.39-inch/10mm solid disc (V6) ABS: Standard WHEELS 16 x 6.5 steel 16 x 6.5 aluminum alloy 17 x 6.5 aluminum alloy TIRES P215/60R16 steel-belted radials P215/60R-16 steel-belted radials P225/50R-17 steel-belted radials ELECTRICAL Battery: 12 volt, 68-amp hour (4-cyl) 12-volt, 68-amp hour (V6) Alternator: 110 amp (4-cyl), 130 amp (V6) EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 107.4 inches Overall length: 188.9 inches Overall width: 72.0 inches Overall height: 58.0 inches Track, front: 62.0 inches Track, rear: 61.4 inches Overhang, front 37.8 inches Overhang, rear 43.7 inches Ground clearance 6.30 inches INTERIOR DIMENSIONS Head room Front: 40.1 inches Rear: 37.8 inches Leg room   Front: 43.7 inches Rear: 37.4 inches Shoulder room Front: 57.4 inches Rear: 56.8 inches Hip Room   Front: 55.5 inches Rear: 55.3 inches EPA Passenger volume: 104.9 EPA Cargo volume: 16.3 EPA Total volume: 121.2 EPA Classification: Large Car CAPACITIES Fuel tank: 17.7 gallons Crankcase 4-cyl: 4.2 quarts V6: 3.7 quarts Coolant 4-cyl: 7.3 quarts V6: 9.4 quarts CURB WEIGHT 4-cyl, manual trans: 3,253 lbs 4-cyl, auto trans: 3,266 lbs V6, auto trans: 3,458 lbs TOWING Maximum capacity: 2,000 lbs FUEL ECONOMY City Highway 4-cyl, manual trans: TBD TBD 4-cyl, auto trans: TBD TBD V6, auto trans: TBD TBD     Search, Explore, and Discover!