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Fluidic Sculpture Design Language
Beginning with the 2011
Sonata and 2010 Tucson projects, Hyundai designers set to work about three and
half years ago on Fluidic Sculpture. Fluidic Sculpture is a consistent, cohesive
design language that will ripple through the entire Hyundai showroom. In
developing the initial Sonata sketches, Hyundai designers considered the
interplay of natural, fluid elements with more rigid surfaces and structures to
create the illusion of constant motion. Inspired by nature, Fluidic Sculpture
injects sophistication and dynamic angles into the shape of a vehicle and now
serves as the core of Hyundai's future design identity.
The exterior of
the all-new Sonata is long, light and low. The high beltline allows for a long,
sleek roofline accented by the third window. A monoform side profile includes
flowing lines highlighted by a Hyundai signature chrome accent that spans the
length of the car. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows.
On the new Sonata, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the
hood and through the beltline. The face is bold with a large powerful chrome
grille and headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by
16-, 17- or 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.
The sophisticated look continues
inside where Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance thanks to a flow-through
center console and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the
exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers.
Best-in-Class Power-to-Weight Ratio
One of the program targets for
the 2011 Sonata engineering team was world-class power-to-weight ratio. This
philosophy was also applied to the Sonata 2.0T, with the result of a
best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 12.2 horsepower per pound, significantly
better than any mid-size sedan competitor, and even better than the
performance-focused Chevrolet Camaro V6. Power-to-weight ratio pays dividends in
both performance and fuel economy, and is the key to Sonata's superior
performance in both of these areas.
Additionally, all Sonatas are rich in
ultra-high-strength steel, leading to world-class body rigidity. The 2011 Sonata
is 25 percent stiffer in torsion and 19 percent stiffer in bending rigidity than
its predecessor, yet it is lighter than most midsize sedans, also offering more
interior room.
Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
Hyundai's
commitment to making the Sonata 2.0T extremely fuel efficient continues with a
six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control.
Hyundai's all-new six-speed automatic A6LF2 transaxle is another way the company
is meeting its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Shifts
are silky smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC
feature.
Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC feature by moving the gear
selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it
rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver
control. Turbocharged Sonatas will also feature steering wheel-mounted paddle
shifters. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear being used.
Supple Ride, Agile Handling
An advanced four-wheel independent
suspension system combines a supple ride with precise handling and steering
response for Sonata GLS and Limited models. Sonata uses MacPherson strut front
and multi-link rear suspension systems with increased travel for improved wheel
control and a smoother ride. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs,
fade-resistant gas-charged dampers and stabilizer bars. The suspension has been
optimized to keep the vehicle flat during corning and provide quick turn-in
response. The rear suspension uses aluminum components to reduce weight and
improve suspension performance. The GLS and Limited models also use advanced
low-rolling resistance tires to improve fuel economy while maintaining good ride
and handling performance.
The Sonata SE is an even more exciting and
willing partner for drivers who prefer sportier ride and handling dynamics. The
sport-tuned suspension features stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars,
resulting in a 20 percent increase in roll stiffness. Unique SE dampers,
including monotube shocks in the rear are used to control the more aggressive
suspension. Low profile 18-inch tires round out the unique chassis components of
the Sonata SE.
All Sonatas have column-mounted, motor-driven electric
power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while
improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio
steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in.
Hyundai Sonata 2.0T: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications