Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai's new Sonata is probably the most photographed test car in Britain at the moment. Countless readers and professional spy snappers have sent in pictures of the disguised saloon - but despite many people heralding the mystery car as a new Ford Mondeo or Scorpio, we can reveal its true identity. Take a look at the all-new Hyundai Sonata...

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Chris Thorp

09th September 2004

Now officially unveiled in its native South Korea, it's clear that Hyundai has shifted its sights upmarket. Set to go on sale in UK dealerships in January, the new model will make its motor show debut in Paris later this month. Edgy styling and a big step up in quality are intended to tempt buyers away from rival models, while the interior looks as if it has been penned to appeal to European tastes.

With larger dimensions all-round - the new car is 55mm longer, 10mm wider and 55mm taller than the current model - the Sonata should be roomier, too.

Hyundai Motor vice-chairman Kim Dong-Jin said: "We have put every effort and energy into producing this model for three years, and we expect to sell more than 300,000 annually - 100,000 in the domestic market and 200,000 overseas." Buyers can choose from new 2.0 and 2.4-litre engines developed with Mitsubishi and DaimlerChrysler, as well as Hyundai's 2.7-litre V6. A diesel is also expected to join the line-up. Prices are tipped to start from around ΂£14,500 for base models, rising to ΂£18,500 for the flagship V6.