Refreshed Hyundai Sonata, Elantra prove automaker still believes in sedans

Hyundai is betting on a return to popularity of the sedan as it launches refreshed versions of its Sonata and Elantra models, offering new styling for both and optional all-wheel drive for the first time on Sonata.

“Despite contractions over the last few years, the compact sedan segment remains significant from a volume perspective,” said Steve Flamand, executive director of product and corporate strategy at Hyundai Auto Canada. “Although the segments have decreased in absolute size in recent years, they remain relevant for our customers and present a substantial opportunity for Hyundai to deliver reliable, well-equipped and stylish options for customers,” he said during the Aug. 30 virtual launch of the 2024 versions of the two sedans. 

Added Jon Simmons, senior group manager for Hyundai Motor America, “The rumours of sedans going away are far from true.”

According to the automaker, U.S. sales of the outgoing Elantra and Sonata models rose 53 per cent and 39 per cent respectively, during the first half of 2023. José Muñoz, president of Hyundai Motor Group, said Elantra accounted for one-fifth of Hyundai sales in the United States, when the market as a whole sold almost three million sedans.

In Canada, sales of the Elantra and Sonata fell 22 per cent and 36 per cent respectively during the first seven months of the year, according to the Automotive News Research and Data Center. Hyundai Canada said supply was hampered by issues at Canadian ports, specifically a labour dispute affecting the Vancouver and Prince Rupert ports.

Mike Evanoff, product planner for Hyundai Motor America, said that as buyers seek improved fuel economy and better handling, sedans fit the bill. He also expects more sedan buyers as children of the SUV generation become first-time buyers.

“We think young buyers, who grew up with SUVs enter the market, looking to do something different, will look to sedans,” he said. “With the other manufacturers moving away from sedans, we think this gives us an opportunity.”

For both models, the announcement amounts to a mid-cycle refresh. Elantra gets new 15, 16, 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels, thinner LED daytime running lights and three new colours: ecotronic gray, ultimate red and exotic green. Inside, there are new soft touch surfaces for front door panels, new colour choices, a new 4.2-inch instrument cluster on Essential and Preferred trims and a redesigned wireless charging pad.

Sonata’s improvements are more extensive, including the addition of optional all-wheel drive, a more aggressive design with improved aerodynamics as well as a 24-inch wide panoramic display panel that integrates the instrument panel and infotainment screen in one.

Pricing has not been announced. Elantra should be in dealerships in the fall while Sonata goes on sale this coming winter.