Hyundai celebrates 30th anniversary of Sonata

Hyundai is celebrating the 30th anniversary for the iconic Sonata midsize sedan. The Sonata made its debut in 1985 in Korea, playing a pivotal role in Hyundai’s growth and reputation. With more than 7.3 million Sonata models sold since its introduction, Sonata has become a family sedan loved by customers all around the world. “The Sonata has been a huge factor in Hyundai’s growth not only in the U.S., but around the world,” said Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “During its 30year history, we have been able to craft and evolve Sonata to the everchanging needs of our customers. And, with the Sonata family growing this summer to include the allnew Sonata PlugIn Hybrid, we’re expanding an already diverse lineup with something for everyone.” In the U.S., Sonata was introduced in 1988 and helped Hyundai grow into one of the country’s top automakers. Since then, Hyundai Motor America has sold more than 2.3 million units in the U.S., including nearly 80,000 Sonata Hybrid models since its 2011 U.S. introduction. SONATA GENERATIONS 1st Generation Sonata (1985) Motor America. “During its 30year history, we have been able to craft and evolve Sonata to the everchanging needs of our customers. And, with the Sonata family growing this summer to include the allnew Sonata PlugIn Hybrid, we’re expanding an already diverse lineup with something for everyone.” In the U.S., Sonata was introduced in 1988 and helped Hyundai grow into one of the country’s top automakers. Since then, Hyundai Motor America has sold more than 2.3 million units in the U.S., including nearly 80,000 Sonata Hybrid models since its 2011 U.S. introduction. SONATA GENERATIONS 1st Generation Sonata (1985) The 1 st Generation Sonata was one of Hyundai’s first models designed exclusively by Hyundai’s inhouse design teams. The 1 st Generation started the Sonata legacy by exceeding 1 million unit sales in Korea for a single model line for the first time. 2nd Generation Sonata (1988) Unlike the 1 st Generation model, which was reardrive, the 2nd Generation Sonata employed a frontwheel drive system for enhanced interior packaging efficiency. As Korea’s first independentlydesigned model, it departed from angular design language and adopted a more organic, aerodynamic design. The facelift of this generation, launched in 1991, was the first model to be badged with the newly revised Hyundai logo. 3rd Generation Sonata (1993) The 1990s marked the acceleration of digital technologies replacing traditional analog technologies. The 3rd Generation Sonata leveraged this consumer trend, enjoying robust sales due to many advanced features, including automatic side mirrors and antilock braking system (ABS) technologies. 4th Generation Sonata (1998) The 4th Generation Sonata, launched in 1998, was the bestselling model in Korea from February 1999 to August 2000. This generation was sold in Europe and was equipped with an inhouse developed engine and a Hyundai Intelligent Vehicle Electronic Control (HIVEC) transmission. It was also the highest scoring midsize sedan in the 2004 J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey in the U.S. 5th Generation Sonata (2004) The 5th Generation Sonata was designed to be a worldclass midsize sedan as a fundamental development target. This generation of Sonata adopted a European design theme, offering premium character and road presence. Equipped with significantly advanced features and a topranked safety rating, the 5th Generation Sonata received near universal praise from automotive media and customers alike. 6th Generation Sonata (2009) The 6th Generation Sonata was one of the first Hyundai models to employ the industryleading Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy. Its bold and compelling design, powerful, efficient engine and solid performance created a new sensation in midsize sedan markets throughout the world with record sales, solidifying Sonata in the minds of consumers as one of the Hyundai’s most recognizable models. In addition, the Sonata Hybrid model was introduced globally on the Sonata platform in 2010. 7th Generation Sonata (2014) The latest 7th Generation Sonata has further refined and balanced the conventionshattering version of Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy, raising the bar for the midsize sedan segment in both design and performance. Further, the allnew Sonata expanded its powertrain offerings with two additional ecofriendly models, including the Sonata Hybrid unveiled in 2014, and the first Sonata PlugIn Hybrid model, introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2015. HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 830 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5year/ 60,000mile fully transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai’s 10year/ 100,000mile powertrain limited warranty and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance. Hyundai Blue Link Connected Care provides owners of Hyundai models equipped with the Blue Link telematics system with proactive safety and car care services complimentary for one year with enrollment. These services include Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostic Alert, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and invehicle service scheduling.