Hyundai Relveals the Mildly Updated 2016 Sonata

2016 Hyundai Sonata (Credit: © Hyundai)

Hyundai is slowly working its way through its checklist of 2016 model year updates. Today, the Korean automaker gets to check the Sonata off its list, as it has revealed its minor updates and prices for the new model year.

The 2016 Sonata’s most obvious visual changes will be on the Limited trim level. These models will gain a restyled front bumper borrowed from the Sport model, a three-bar grille, new-design 17-inch wheels, and new woodgrain patterns on models with the beige interior. The Limited 2.0T model also has a minor update, as Hyundai is adding in a D-cut steering wheel for a sportier look.

Another noticeable change to the 2016 Sonata is to its suspension. Hyundai has swapped out its steel front lower control arms, the steering knuckle, the rear assist arms, and the rear upper control arms for aluminum. This will help reduce unsprung weight, thereby improving the car’s agility.

Inside the cabin, there is a mild tech upgrade, as the SE, Sport, Limited, ECO, and Sport 2.0T models all get a new 7-inch color touchscreen audio system with Android Auto. Also brightening up the cabin is the new available sunroof in the Sport and Limited trims.

Hyundai is also pushing the 2016 Sonata’s safety a little further with the addition of automatic emergency braking on models with forward collision warning.

Just like last year, the 2016 Sonata will carry a lineup of three four-cylinder engines. The base engine is a 2.4-liter that delivers 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. According to the press release, this engine delivers slightly improved fuel economy ratings when compared to the 2015 model’s 25 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined.

The two optional engines are the 2.0-liter turbocharged unit that delivers 245 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 1.6-liter turbo with 177 horses and 195 pound-feet of twist. The latter engine, which is only available in the Eco trim, pushes the 2016 Sonata’s fuel economy to 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway.

The 2016 Sonata is starting to roll into dealers now with a starting price of $21,750, which is a $600 increase over the 2015 model.