Hot Hyundai Sonata N Line turbo arriving soon

The hot turbocharged Hyundai Sonata N Line has been confirmed as the sole member of the all-new eighth-generation mid-size sedan range that launches in Australia in the coming weeks.

As new details about the Sonata N Line have emerged in the US today – including a 213kW/422Nm output from its new 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine – Hyundai Australia has confirmed carsales’ exclusive report in September that the high-performance variant would muscle in as the stand-alone Aussie launch model.

This effectively makes it Hyundai’s answer to the Kia Stinger sports sedan while maintaining the Korean brand’s presence in the mid-size passenger car segment, which is diminishing as buyers migrate to SUVs.

Dubbed the sportiest Sonata to date (from the factory, at least), the N Line’s new ‘Theta III’ 2.5-litre turbo-four drives the front wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Tipping the scales at 1636kg, Sonata N Line also receives a performance-oriented chassis, with firmer bushings, higher spring rates, revised shock absorber valving and larger sway bars front and rear.

Big 19-inch alloy wheels and larger front and rear brake callipers and discs are there too, and as with all local models the Aussie-spec N Line will have its suspension tuned specifically for our unique road conditions.

Design elements that are now classed as signature N Line traits include a cascading grille, aggressive front fascia, triple air intakes and unique badging.

This sporting treatment flows around to the rear via side skirts to a prominent black lower bumper, dual twin exhaust outlets and an N Line rear diffuser.

Cabin highlights include sports seats, dark chrome trim and N Line red stitching on the steering wheel.

As the flagship of the new-generation Sonata, the N Line incorporates a 10.25-inch centre display paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

Safety technology extends to forward collision avoidance assistance, lane keeping assist, lane follow assist and reverse parking collision avoidance assist, among many other features.

In announcing the fresh details of Sonata N Line, Hyundai’s global product chief Thomas Schemera said the sporty new variant took the mid-size sedan into unfamiliar territory.

“Hyundai has built a loyal following for Sonata by offering an array of reliable, fuel-efficient and attractively designed models, including the standard, hybrid and ‘Sensuous’ variants,” he said.

“Now, Sonata N Line joins the line-up, satisfying the desire for dynamic performance.

“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.

“To make the Sonata N Line drive sportier, we’ve lowered the car and honed the suspension.”

Stay tuned for more details, including pricing, as the launch date for the Sonata N Line rapidly approaches.