By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com
For 2014 the Hyundai Sonata Limited offers exceptional safety, cutting-edge design and impressive power and fuel economy. Sonata enters the 2014 model year with exterior design enhancements, new safety technologies and a host of unique comfort and convenience features.
Under the hood Hyundai Sonata continues to be powered by the acclaimed Theta II GDI 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine continues to lead the mid-size segment in specific output more than three years after its initial introduction. Much of its advantage derives from its advanced Gasoline Direct-Injection fuel delivery system, which contributes to increased horsepower and improved fuel efficiency.
Sonata delivers an impressive 24 mpg city and 35 mpg EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating with the standard six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC. The Theta II GDI engine produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb.-ft. of torque. This high-tech all-aluminum, 16-valve engine also features Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing and a Variable Induction System for better engine breathing.
The 2014 Sonata now offers Hyundai’s Blind Spot Detection system. Using advanced sonar sensors, this system continually monitors traffic around the Sonata and if another vehicle is detected within a set distance, audio and visual elements alert the driver to the issue. A driver’s blind spot mirror also arrives for 2014 and is standard on the Popular Equipment Package on the Limited model, replacing the traditional side view mirror, and features an integrated convex spotter mirror aimed directly at the Sonata’s blind spot. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System has also been updated for 2014 to a system that identifies the specific tire with low pressure.
Behind the wheel, drivers of the 2014 Sonata will benefit from Hyundai’s Driver Selectable Steering Mode, with three operating modes, Comfort, Normal and Sport. This innovative system allows drivers to adapt Sonata’s steering characteristics to varying driving preferences and road conditions. Comfort mode is ideal for city and parking environments, offering the greatest ease of steering with a decrease in steering effort from Normal mode. Normal mode is ideal for a mix of driving conditions. Meanwhile, Sport Mode is optimized for higher speed freeways or winding roads and decreases power steering assist from Normal mode. The Driver Selectable Steering Mode not only adjusts power assistance levels in each mode, but also adjusts on-center build-up feel and steering build-up curves throughout the steering range, for a very natural and progressive feel. Steering dampening characteristics, active return and friction levels also have been optimized in Sonata.
Sonata Limited model offers an optional multifunction eight-inch touch-screen display with navigation. This third-generation display features a simpler user interface, enhanced voice recognition commands and improved navigation screens. The system is more intuitive for commonly used tasks. Simple pop-up messages now appear to help pair a cell phone and the voice recognition software understands street addresses and cities all in one sentence. The route screen displays speed limits and details the next three maneuvers one or two button pushes now complete most functions.
Four audio systems are available on Sonata. Standard is an AM / FM / SiriusXM Satellite Radio / CD /MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod/USB/auxiliary input jacks. The upgraded audio system boasts a 4.3-inch full color LCD screen with HD Radio and rearview camera. The third system consists of the Gen. 3.0 Navigation unit with Dimension audio with 10 speakers. Finally, the premium navigation system includes an Infinity 550-watt, Logic 7 surround sound audio system with 12 speakers, including an available eight-inch subwoofer and external amplifier. A SiriusXM Satellite Radio interface is integrated into each head unit and features channel logos and Data services, such as NavWeather, Stock Ticker and Sports Ticker. A Bluetooth hands-free phone system with voice recognition, address book download and audio streaming is also standard.
Hyundai also recently introduced an all-new mobile application for the Blue Link telematics platform. The mobile app allows subscribers to remotely access various optional Blue Link features and services through compatible mobile devices. Completely redesigned from the ground up, the app has been significantly enhanced from the previous version and boasts a new user experience, faster navigation and innovative new features. Google Android and Apple iOS users can download the app today from Google Play or Apple iTunes, a BlackBerry version is also available.
The manufacturer’s suggested starting retail price is $27,000.00, the one I drove included the Technology Package, Panoramic Sunroof with Tilt & Slide, HID Xenon Headlights, LED Taillights, Navigation System with 8 Inch Touchscreen Display, Infinity Premium Speakers with Subwoofer & Amplifier, Pearl White Paint and Carpeted Floor Mats, and it came in at $31,120.00 including inland freight and handling.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
