Hyundai Motors is all set to launch an all-new Sonata in India by July-end, retaining the price at about Rs 16 lakh (Rs 1.6 million), and may also offer a replacement scheme to the existing customers of the premier sedan.
Disclosing this here, B V R Subbu, President, Hyundai Motors India Ltd, said: "Quality audit test for the new model is underway. The test has to confirm that cars made in India are same as those produced in the US market."
The new model would be available in automatic and petrol versions, he said, adding the price has been retained at around Rs 16 lakh.
The company had stopped selling Sonata cars in India about six months back before selling 5,500-5,800 units.
Asked whether the company would offer a scheme to the existing Sonata customers to replace their car with the new model, Subbu said: "We are looking at some options. Nothing has been finalised. But in all probability, we may offer some replacement scheme."
On the main features of the new model, he said it would come with a completely redesigned body and a far more fuel-efficient engine. All safety features are on par with those existing in Europe.
The company is targeting to sell about 2,000 units annually and the car would be manufactured at its plant in Chennai, Subbu said, adding that six cars have already been produced for conducting audit test.
The same model was launched in the United States market late last year by the Korean auto major and evoked a 'very good' response, Subbu said, hoping for a similar outcome in the Indian market.
Company officials claimed that fuel efficiency was close to 10.9 kms per litre of petrol.
Elaborating on the new engine, Subbu said the company has replaced the old 2.7 V6 engine with 2.4 theeta engine.
Outlining the main features of the new Sonata, he said these were a complete redesign of the body, improved interiors, a fuel-efficient engine, improved ride and handling with safety features on par with European standards.
© 2025