HYUNDAI will launch its refreshed Sonata mid-sized sedan in Africa and the Middle East next month, with preview images of the car showing dramatic changes to the car’s bodywork. New sheet-metal and trim details will bring the current-generation Sonata into line with the Hyundai’s evolving design language, which is progressively introducing more sophisticated architecture and styling to the brand.

All panels forwards of the front windscreen are new, as are the trunk lid, rear bumper, and the sills below the doors. Such extensive changes to some of the most noticeable parts of the car will ensure the Sonata’s styling makes a clear break with the car it replaces, despite retaining the same main body structure.

“The refreshed design for the Sonata is very different from the car it replaces, and goes far beyond the few small cosmetic changes people normally expect for a facelift model,” said Hyundai’s Head of Operations for Africa and the Middle East, Mike Song. “The appearance from both the front and rear is completely new, with clever detail changes to the exterior trim along the side of the car making a subtle difference to the car’s side profile. The body looks longer, wider, and sportier than before.”

The new design architecture centers on Hyundai’s “Cascading Grille’, which is being introduced as a signature, unifying design element across the Hyundai range. The low and wide radiator grille makes the hood appear longer and sleeker, which is counter balanced by the raised trunk lid, shifting the side profile architecture to a more dynamic attitude.

The chrome lines around the side windows extend forward to the headlights as they did before, but now they go further to the front of the car and under the headlamps for a unique, sophisticated look. From the side, the sleek and sensuously sculpted volumes are complimented by fine technical details such as the head lamps, tail lamps and directional spoked wheels. The rear license plate holder moves downward to fit onto the bumper and a large Sonata logo is added to the center of the trunk lid, projecting visual self-confidence.

“The existing Hyundai Sonata has been very successful with car buyers,” said Mike Song. “This very bold, very distinctive redesign maintains the elements that have built that success, while also offering a more modern and more premium package.” — SG