Hyundai has released details of the forthcoming Sonata N Line sedan which the brand says is the sportiest version of the nameplate it has yet produced.
Hyundai Motor Group product division head EVP Thomas Schemera says the brand has a loyal following for the mid-size sedan and the arrival of the dynamic N Line joins the standard, hybrid, and sensuous variants of the Sonata,
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 says the manufacturer.
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 says Hyundai.
Interior design elements, including a leather-wrapped perforated N steering wheel with metallic spokes, red-stitched sports seats with leather bolsters, gearshift with metal accents and leather inserts and alloy pedals, complement Sonata N Line’s sporty exterior.
The N Line-specific mechanicals back up the sedan’s sporty appearance. The 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, mated a 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that was developed for N vehicles, produces 213kW and 422Nm of torque (1,650-4,000 rpm). That makes Sonata N Line the most powerful yet.
The addition of a turbocharger, a different cylinder head, and unique internals significantly upgraded its performance, compared to the standard Sonata’s 142kW normally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine.
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 says the manufacturer.
The Sonata N Line has a curb weight of 1,636 kg. 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, Hyundai 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 (ASD) and shifting pattern says the manufacturer.
“The Sonata N Line’s turbocharged engine is up to the task of delivering big fun, and the new gearbox provides a direct connection and instant shifts through the paddle shifters,” Schemera says. “To make the Sonata N Line drive sportier, we’ve lowered the car and honed the suspension.”
The drive mode selector’s digital instrument display changes when switched through the modes, which include Normal, Sport, Sport +, and Custom. In addition to changing the cluster, toggling through them alters the steering weight and the speed and strategy of the transmission’s shifts.
Driver assistance and safety technologies include forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane follow assist, advanced smart cruise control with stop and go, blind spot collision avoidance assist and reverse parking collision-avoidance assist.
The Sonata N Line comes with a top-of-the-line audio and navigation display. It has a 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, so two devices can be paired at the same time – one for phone calls and one for streaming audio.
The Sonata N Line also offers touch sensor outside door handles, remote start, wireless device charging, Bose premium audio with 12 speakers and a subwoofer.
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