The 2020 Hyundai Sonata is in its 8th generation, and it’s absolutely the best-looking Sonata of the line. The silhouette was lowered by 35 mm and stretched by 60 mm, giving it a low, sleek prowl on the road. Hyundai says they set out to design the most beautiful sedan in the market, and they are definitely making a statement with this one.
Starting with a new chassis, which gave the designers a chance to set up the vehicle the way they wanted, the brand hit the sketch pads with the idea of creating expressive lines and rich surfaces. In person, it does have a beautiful, futuristic look. The updated grille is chock-full of geometric shapes that cast shadows in various ways depending on the weather and lighting situation, making the Hyundai a little more mysterious.
On the hood, a chrome streak bolts up the crease of the Sonata, connecting the headlamp with what Hyundai calls a “dynamic lasso”. Giddyup, parters: this hood has a rodeo full of personality with an innovative, streamlined profile with no cut line breaking the plane of the nose. Instead, reach under the bonnet to pull the lever.
The taillamps deliberately look like a segment of an oval racetrack, but right above that is a functional marvel. This feature reduces drag in a crosswind situation and stabilizes the car.
“Our designers were inspired by stealth aircraft,” a Hyundai spokesperson told me. “In modern life, we understand that we bring a lot of stuff into our cars. The team spend a lot of time working on the interior cargo space to make sure that it’s functional and also beautiful.”
Kristin spoke with Miles Johnson from Hyundai to get straight answers on the all-new 2020 Hyundai Sonata with its new look, new profile, and host of safety and driver assist features. Check out the special feature video showcasing the car’s “Follow Me” mode.