Fresh from receiving the honor of most dependable midsize car by J.D. Power and Associates in their 2013 Vehicle Dependability Study, Sonata enters the 2014 model year with exterior design enhancements, new safety technologies and a host of unique comfort and convenience features.
Building on an established reputation as a design trendsetter, Hyundai engineers, designers and product planners enhanced nearly every system in the car. In total, more than 50 Sonata major sub-systems are new or redesigned. The 2014 Sonata arrives with even greater value for money, adding highly desired features with an MSRP increase of only $155 on the Sonata GLS. Pricing for the exceptionally well-equipped 2014 Sonata GLS begins at $21,350.
Fluidic Sculpture is the consistent, cohesive design language used throughout the entire Hyundai showroom. It gives the Sonata an upscale appearance along with aerodynamics that reduce wind noise and improve fuel economy. The new bolder grilles, rear fascia insert and optional HID Xenon headlights and LED taillights boost the flowing lines and integrate a new level of design precision. The fluid and precise exterior theme is completed by sets of all-new 17- and 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.
The sophisticated look continues inside, where Hyundai has created an even more upscale ambiance with:
-New full-leather steering wheel on SE and Limited
-New eight-inch navigation screen
-New color audio screens with HD Radio and rearview camera integration – optional on GLS and standard on SE and Limited
-New color LCD information screen between the tachometer and speedometer – standard on SE and Limited
-New ventilated driver seat – standard on Limited
-New LED dome light – optional on GLS and standard on SE and Limited
-New carbon fiber trim – standard on SE
The 2014 Sonata now offers Hyundai’s Blind Spot Detection system (BSD). 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 on the 2014 Sonata and is standard on the high-volume GLS Popular Equipment Package and all SE and Limited models, replacing the traditional side view mirror, and features an integrated convex spotter mirror aimed directly at the Sonata’s blind spot.
All models now have a standard Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, which optimally manages Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS). VSM works to control two effects. The first is when a driver accelerates or brakes on a split-mu surface (slippery on one side, dry on the other) and the vehicle tends to pull in one direction. VSM detects this condition and sends a signal to the MDPS to apply steering assist. VSM counters the pull and automatically provides counter-steering. VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) 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.
