Hyundai’s flagship sedan for global markets is getting its sport on.
Overnight first images of the all-new 2021 Sonata N Line were published online by KoreanCarBlog, giving us a first look at the performance-oriented version of Hyundai’s new large sedan.
We’ve known such a variant has been in the works for quite some time, but today we can see just how the Sonata N Line will look when it arrives in Australian showrooms before the end of the year.
The Sonata N Line sports a more aggressive body kit with new bumpers and a quad-tip exhaust treatment, as well as larger alloy wheels, a blacked out front end and a subtle rear spoiler extension. It also appears Hyundai will offer some unique colour options, including the Audi-esque flat grey finish you see here.
Inside, we can also see model-specific sports seats finished in leather and suede with ‘N’ logos, contrast red stitching throughout the cabin, and a sportier steering wheel.
Under the skin, the Sonata N Line is expected to pick up a sportier suspension and damper tune, with KoreanCarBlog also reporting a new Sport+ mode with launch control will be available.
Power will come from Hyundai’s new 2.5-litre ‘Smartstream’ turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, developing a healthy 213kW and 422Nm. Drive will continue to be sent to the front wheels via a new eight-speed wet-type dual-clutch automatic – similar to the DCT coming to the i30 N hot hatch.
The new engine will be shared with various Genesis models, including the new G80 and GV80, and likely rolled out to other Hyundai and Kia models – the updated Kia Stinger is expected to use this motor in overseas markets.
In June, Hyundai Australia detailed a massive product onslaught through to 2022, and according to this schedule the Sonata (including N Line) is due to arrive Down Under before the end of 2020.
Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest in the lead-up to the Sonata’s Australian sales launch later this year.
Which do you prefer – Hyundai Sonata N Line or Skoda Superb Sportline?