Hyundai uncovered the all-new, American-built Sonata at the Detroit auto show, revealing the third of seven vehicles scheduled to roll out in just 24 months. When an empty, circular stage without a ramp was seen as the presentation dias, journos wondered if sheetmetal would be seen, and then the dark Sonata was lowered from the ceiling in a startling surprise typical of Motor City fanfare. The sedan promises to further the brand's march into the mainstream sales fray, with a generously equipped package that at 120 cubic feet offers more interior space than the Toyota Camry. This advantage sees the Sonata EPA-rated as a "large car," yet priced aggressively against the midsize competition. The Sonata boasts a full complement of standard safety features, including six airbags, active front headrests, ABS, and for the first time in the mid-size sedan segment, standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The Sonata will come with a choice of two new all-aluminum engines; a 2.4-liter from the new Hyundai/ Mitsubishi/ DaimlerChrysler global four family, and a 3.3-liter V-6. Trannys are a four-speed automatic, and available with only the four, a five-speed manual. Front suspension is double-wishbone, with a multi-link rear, and Active Geometry Control Suspension is optional. It regulates rear toe-in via two electric actuators that vary the geometry of the control arms. Hyundai undoubtedly will again offer full equipment for the price of a stripper Camry, but at this rate, the rapidly improving automaker could soon sell its cars on design alone.
