New York 2017: Hyundai Sonata New & Improved, Again

It was a revised and improved 2018 Hyundai Sonata – sporting an eye-catching new front end - that made its North American debut this week at the 2017 New York International Auto Show. It is expected to arrive at Canadian dealerships over the course of the summer.

How has Hyundai spruced up the look of its sedan? The latest edition of the Sonata comes with a new front grille, a chromed chin spoiler that extends to the exterior edges, a larger trunk lid in the centre of which appears the Sonata name and Hyundai logo, both now oversized, and distinctive new rear lights. The 2.0T will feature a unique mesh finish on the grille, 18-inch alloy wheels and other elements dressed in black.

The interior of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata now has larger elements integrated in the central console. The audio, heating, ventilation and climate control systems are accessed through glossy black “piano key” buttons. Included standard is a 7-inch touchscreen display (with an option to upgrade to an 8-inch screen), as well as a new racing-inspired steering wheel. Here again, the 2.0T goes a step further, offering a flat-base steering wheel, front sport seats with added support, a new 8-speed automatic transmission and a sport gear paddle shifter that allows the driver to choose from four driving modes (Comfort, Eco, Sport and Smart).

A USB charging port has been added to the back of the central console, with wireless charging capability for smartphones and Hyundai’s new Blue Link system both available as options. Blue Link comes with a host of services that will be included free of charge for five years after purchase.

Hyundai did not neglect the safety angle either: Automatic Headlight Control, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist and other safety systems are now included.

It’s worth noting that the 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid and plug-in hybrid models were not subject to the latest round of tweaks and improvements.