Motoring News

HYUNDAI SONATA N LINE

Published

3 years ago

3 November 2021

JeffG

HYUNDAI SONATA N LINE

Hyundai has reinvented the Sonata as a turbocharged sporty coupe.

By CHRIS RILEY

The Hyundai Sonata dates all the way back to 1989 in Australia.
Now in its eighth generation, it started life as a medium-sized four door sedan that offered family-friendly motoring for a budget $19,990.
More than 30 years later, the latest Sonata N Line, launched in December last year, has undergone a transformation — to emerge as a highly desirable turbocharged sports machine.
There’s just the one fully equipped model priced from $50,990 plus on-roads (for a white one). At the moment you can grab one for $55,654 driveaway, which includes metallic paint, normally a $595 extra.

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STYLING
With the latest model Sonata N has adopted the low-slung lines of a coupe, sitting low and wide with aggressively sculpted curves.
The wide, droopy face with its bold cascading glossy black grille evokes classic Italian sports cars of yesteryear.
At the rear, an LED strip across the boot ties the LED tail lights together to create a sense of width and striking night-time appearance, with twin tailpipes integrated into each side of a diffuser-style lower treatment.
A Sports body kit, LED headlights, DRLs and tail lights, and 19-inch alloys wrapped in 245/40 Continentals complete the picture.
There’s four colour choices; White Cream, Hampton Grey, Flame Red and Midnight Black, and only white is free.
One small annoyance is the lack of an exterior boot release.

INTERIOR

Hyundai Sonata i30 N Line Interior

Inside the cabin is trimmed in an upmarket combination of suede and black Nappa leather, with decorative N Line badging.
The dash incorporates a free-standing 10.25-inch touchscreen and separate 12.3-inch configurable LCD hi-res colour instrument binnacle.
Creature comforts include heated and ventilated, power-adjustable front seats, heated outer rear seats, dual-zone climate control air conditioning and a panoramic glass sunroof.
Profiles store multiple driver preferences, for settings such as seat and side mirror positions, HUD and driving mode settings, navigation history, and active Bluetooth device and radio station settings.
Other nice touches include auto high beam, adaptive cruise control, wireless smartphone charging, Head-Up Display plus front and rear park sensors, with Surround View Monitor with Rear View Monitor and Parking Guidance.
Although upmarket, the cabin is a bit monotone and glare makes some controls hard to see.
The driver’s door handle is easy to fumble, while the handbrake switch is buried down and to the right of the wheel.
The head-up display is almost invisible with polarised sunglasses.

INFOTAINMENT
A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system surrounds the occupants with three speakers up front, three on each side and three in the rear.
The system features CenterPoint surround technology, which splits music into multiple channels, to fully immerse occupants in a surround sound experience.
The infotainment system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with satellite navigation, AM/FM and digital radio, Bluetooth audio streaming and you can use voice command for text messages.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The Smartstream 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers 213kW of power and 422Nm of torque, the latter from 1650 through to 4000 rpm. That’s more than the excellent i30 Fastback N, which is good for 206kW and 392Nm. Of course, Sonata is larger and weighs more — but you get bragging rights.
The engine is paired with a ‘wet’ eight-speed dual-clutch transmission developed specially for N vehicles, featuring shift-by-wire, push-button gear selection as well as paddle shifters.

SAFETY
Standard SmartSense technologies include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning Assist function, Driver Attention Warning and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance-Assist systems.
It also features Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Following Assist systems, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

DRIVING

Hyundai Sonata i30 N Line

The addition of a turbocharger, different cylinder head and revised internals contribute to significantly better performance compared to the 142kW of the standard naturally aspirated engine in the previous model.
With 422Nm of torque, N Line has stacks of low and mid-range grunt and pulls strongly all the way to redline, with fast, snappy changes from the twin clutch transmission.
It does however display a slight hesitancy when you back off, then almost immediately hit it again. But then, you’ve got to remember that it has a twin clutch.
With launch control, the dash from 0-100km/h takes 6.2 seconds, pretty quick for a car that was once a mum and dad special.
Drive modes include normal, sport, sport+ and custom, while shifting between modes changes the look of instruments to reflect each mode.
In addition to changing the cluster, toggling through them alters the steering weight and the speed and strategy of the transmission shifts.
With a kerb weight of 1636kg, suspension is MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear, with monotube rear dampers that deliver rapid response, making the car more agile than you might expect for the size.
To bring Sonata to a stop, engineers have added larger front and rear brake calipers and discs, 345x30mm ventilated front and 325x12mm solid discs rear.
Yes, you might have picked up on the fact that active sound means the engine note is enhanced artificially, but you know what? I don’t mind. It simply makes the driving experience more engaging and that’s what really counts.
With claimed fuel consumption of 8.1L/100km we were using 9.1litres during our test period.

SUMMING UP
Is it worth it? Drive it and see what you think. Sonata N Line makes all the right noises and has all the right moves.
It will be a shame if this car does not get the attention it deserves, primarily because of the name and associated baggage.
Say Sonata to someone and it conjures images of a boring, four-door econobox. Quite frankly, they should have ditched the name to make the transformation complete.

MODEL RANGE
Hyundai Sonata N Line: $50,990
Note: This price does not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Hyundai dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Hyundai Sonata N Line, 4-cylinder turbo petrol, 8sp automatic, FWD)

ENGINE:
SmartStream G2.5
Capacity: 2.5 litres
Configuration: In-line four
Maximum Power: 213kW @ 5800 rpm
Maximum Torque: 422 Nm @ 1650 – 4000 rpm
Fuel Type: Petrol
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 8.1L/100km
CO2 Emissions: 188g/km

DRIVELINE:
8sp Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:
Length: 4900 mm
Wheelbase: 2840 mm
Width: 1860 mm
Height: 1445 mm
Turning Circle: 11.0 metres
Kerb Mass: 1636 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 litres

BRAKES:
Front: Ventilated disc 345mm x 30mm
Rear: Solid disc 325 x 12 mm

STANDARD WARRANTY:
Five years / unlimited kilometres

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Hyundai Launches New Santa Fe Hybrid in Australia: Rivalling Toyota Kluger and Kia Sorento

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5 days ago

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Hyundai Launches New Santa Fe Hybrid in Australia: Rivalling Toyota Kluger and Kia Sorento

By Jeff Gibbs

Hyundai has unveiled its latest offering in the family SUV market with the 2024 Santa Fe, a seven-seat hybrid vehicle designed to compete directly with the Toyota Kluger Hybrid and Kia Sorento. This new model introduces significant enhancements and a variety of options tailored to meet diverse consumer needs and preferences.

Model Range and Pricing

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The new Santa Fe comes in three distinct grades: the base Santa Fe, the mid-tier Elite, and the top-of-the-line Calligraphy. The entry-level front-wheel-drive Santa Fe starts at $55,500 before on-road costs, marking a nearly $10,000 increase from its predecessor. Customers looking for enhanced stability can opt for all-wheel drive for an additional $3,000. The Elite variant, priced at $65,000, includes all-wheel drive as standard, while the range-topping Calligraphy is available from $75,000 and offers both seven- and six-seat configurations.

Power and Efficiency

Each model in the lineup features a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 172kW and 367Nm of torque. This setup achieves an impressive fuel efficiency of 5.6 litres per 100km, matching the fuel consumption of its main competitor, the Toyota Kluger.

Design and Features

The 2024 Santa Fe boasts a bold, boxy silhouette reminiscent of classic Land Rovers, enhanced by dynamic H-shaped headlights and a distinctive light bar across the front grille. Standard features on the base model include 20-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, and rear privacy glass. Inside, the vehicle sports dual 12.3-inch digital displays for multimedia and driver instruments, cloth seats, and comprehensive safety features including 10 airbags and a suite of active driver aids.

Technology and Comfort

The Santa Fe is equipped with Hyundai’s Bluelink app, offering over-the-air update capabilities and smartphone mirroring, along with a wireless device charger. All-wheel-drive variants benefit from multiple driving modes such as Snow, Mud, and Sand, enhancing the SUV’s versatility across different terrains.

The Elite trim upgrades the interior with synthetic leather-wrapped seats, a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an additional wireless device charger. It also replaces the standard six-speaker stereo with a premium Bose sound system for an enriched audio experience.

Calligraphy models elevate luxury with Nappa leather upholstery, a sunroof, power adjustments for the front passenger seat, and a head-up display that projects essential driving information directly onto the windshield.

For added convenience and health safety, the Calligraphy variant includes a UV-C sterilisation tray located in the dashboard above the glove box, capable of sanitising items in just 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Fe positions itself as a strong contender in the competitive hybrid SUV market in Australia, blending performance, luxury, and advanced technology to cater to the modern family’s needs. With its comprehensive features and competitive pricing, the Santa Fe is set to challenge established rivals and appeal to a broad audience seeking a reliable, stylish, and efficient family vehicle.

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Genesis Australia Poised to Enter High-Performance Market with Magma Sub-Brand

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Genesis Australia is eagerly positioning itself to launch its new Magma performance sub-brand, aiming to compete directly with established high-performance divisions like Mercedes-AMG, BMW M, and Audi Sport. The Magma brand, unveiled at the New York motor show in March 2024, signifies Genesis’ commitment to performance models, starting with the G80 sedan in Middle Eastern markets.

While plans for the Australian launch remain preliminary, Justin Douglass, the head of Genesis Australia, expressed strong interest in bringing Magma to the local market, known for its appetite for high-performance vehicles. “The Magma range seems to resonate well with what we anticipate the market will welcome. We’re excited about the potential of introducing it here once available,” Douglass remarked.

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In Australia, performance models form a significant part of car sales, with AMG variants constituting about 28% of Mercedes-Benz’s overall sales in 2023, or approximately 6,808 units. Similarly, BMW M’s sales surged by 19.7% in 2023, with about 6,664 units sold, underscoring the market’s robust demand for high-performance cars.

Genesis aims to develop a high-performance Magma model for each vehicle in its current lineup, potentially introducing six models based on the G70, G80, G90, GV60, GV70, and GV80. However, the G90 large sedan, not available in right-hand drive, will likely be excluded from the Australian market, leaving five potential models for introduction.

Among these, the GV60 electric vehicle is a frontrunner to debut the Magma sub-brand in Australia. A concept version was showcased in New York featuring distinctive orange paintwork and performance enhancements. The GV60 Magma concept not only promises a more aggressive styling but also improved electric motor technology, offering a glimpse into the potential capabilities of a production model, which might parallel the mechanically related Hyundai Ioniq 5 N with its 448kW/740Nm output, significantly more powerful than the current top GV60 Performance Lux variant.

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Introducing the 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri: A Bold New Chapter for V12 Enthusiasts

Published

6 days ago

15 May 2024

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Introducing the 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri: A Bold New Chapter for V12 Enthusiasts

Keypoints:

Enhanced V12 Engine Performance: The Ferrari 12Cilindri boasts an upgraded F140 6.5-litre V12 engine, delivering 610kW at 9500rpm—significantly enhancing its power and rev range compared to the 812 Superfast for faster speeds and superior responsiveness.
Revolutionary Design and Aerodynamics: The 12Cilindri features a radically streamlined design with a monolithic bonnet, minimal cooling vents, and wrap-around headlights, complemented by advanced aerodynamics such as a speed-responsive twin-element active rear wing for optimal performance.
Cutting-edge Interior Technology: The interior of the 12Cilindri is outfitted with three advanced displays and offers optional high-end features like a 15-speaker Burmester sound system, blending luxury with the latest technology for enhanced comfort and entertainment.

By Jeff Gibbs

In 2025, Ferrari is set to launch the 12Cilindri, its most ambitious V12 model to date, replacing the celebrated 812 Superfast with a vehicle that promises not only a continuation but an evolution of Ferrari’s illustrious V12 heritage. Unveiled at a glamorous event on Miami Beach just before the Miami Formula 1 Grand Prix, the 12Cilindri signifies a radical departure in design and engineering while paying homage to the iconic front-engine V12 configuration that Ferrari aficionados have long revered.

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Powering the 12Cilindri is the enhanced version of Ferrari’s storied F140 6.5-litre V12 engine, which first roared to life in the Ferrari Enzo and later powered models like the F12 and 812 Superfast. Through extensive modifications and updated internals, this engine now delivers a staggering 610kW at a dizzying 9500rpm. This represents a significant increase from the 812SF, pushing the boundaries of performance further with a rev limit that exceeds the previous model by 1000rpm. This elevation in power is complemented by a more accessible torque distribution, ensuring that 80% of its 678Nm is available from as low as 2500rpm, despite a slight decrease from the 812SF’s torque figures.

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Aesthetically, the 12Cilindri strikes a distinct pose with a cleaner, more streamlined design characterised by a monolithic bonnet and minimal cooling vents, diverging sharply from the 812SF’s sculptural and vent-infused facade. The design features wrap-around headlights and, in the coupe version, a strikingly large glass roof, contributing to a bold reinterpretation of Ferrari’s design language.

The chassis of the 12Cilindri has been completely reengineered, utilising a new aluminium structure that is 15% stiffer than its predecessor, paired with a slightly shorter wheelbase but increased overall dimensions. This new framework supports advanced aerodynamic features, including a twin-element active rear wing, which adapts dynamically to speed variations to optimise performance.

2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri Interior

Performance-wise, the 12Cilindri mirrors the impressive capabilities of the 812 Superfast, achieving 0-100km/h in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 340 km/h. The Spider variant, while slightly heavier, boasts nearly identical performance metrics, ensuring that the exhilarating Ferrari driving experience is preserved across different model configurations.

Underpinning the mechanical prowess of the 12Cilindri is a suite of sophisticated systems designed to harness and refine the raw power of the V12. The introduction of an 8-speed DCT transmission from the SF90, enhanced for quicker shift times, and a comprehensive array of control systems including advanced four-wheel steering and a new evolution of the Side Slip Control, ensure that the 12Cilindri is as agile as it is powerful.

The interior of the 12Cilindri is a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to blending technology with luxury. The cabin is outfitted with three high-definition displays and offers customisation options like a state-of-the-art 15-speaker Burmester sound system, setting a new standard in automotive interior design.

Slated for European delivery in late 2024 with Australian deliveries expected by mid-2025, the 12Cilindri is poised to become a new benchmark in high-performance sports cars. Priced at EUR 395,000 for the coupe and EUR 435,000 for the Spider, it is set to continue the V12 legacy, providing an exhilarating blend of traditional Ferrari power and innovative design to the discerning enthusiast.

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