Leaked images reveal next-gen Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai's next-generation Sonata sedan has been exposed by this series of leaked images, which first appeared on Hyundai Blog and have since begun doing the rounds on a handful of motoring websites.

The all-new sedan -- reportedly known by the designation YF -- is destined to replace the existing model (known internally as the NF), which launched in Korea in 2004. This (NF) vehicle was recently subjected to a mid-life upgrade that included a cosmetic nip-tuck and a few tweaks to the powertrain.

These leaked images reveal Hyundai has adopted a far more adventurous design strategy with the fifth-generation model, which also appears physically larger than the current Sonata.

Conceived at Hyundai's design studio in Irvine, California, the newcomer is distinguished by elongated Peugeot-esque headlights, between which nestles a thrusting three-bar grille. The tail-lights, too, are oversize units that extend virtually to the base of the C-pillar.

In contrast to the conventional three-box proportions of the existing Sonata, Hyundai appears to have plumped for a Mercedes CLS-style tapered roofline that lends it the appearance of a fastback.

There are as yet no tech details available on the new model, but overseas sources suggest the engine line-up will include a new 2.4-litre four-cylinder direct-injection unit and 3.5-litre V6. A hybrid version (with lithium polymer batteries -- reportedly cheaper and more robust than lithium ion cells) is also believed to be in the works.

Australian Sonata buyers are currently offered a 127kW 2.4-litre petrol engine and a 110kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel.

Local Sonata sales have slowed to a trickle this year (just 648 units had been flogged until the end of July), compared with 10,160 sales for the segment-leading Toyota Camry and 5089 for the second-placed Mazda6.

The all-new Sonata could make an appearance at the imminent Frankfurt motor show or at the upcoming US motor shows -- the Los Angeles motor show takes place in December, followed by the 2010 Detroit motor show next January.

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