Hyundai to unveil new Sonata

MANILA, Philippines - The local distributor of Hyundai vehicles is set to unveil later this week the all-new Sonata, which is seen to further cement the brand in the mid-size sedan category.

According to Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) it would launch the all-new Sonata on Dec. 15.

The seventh generation Sonata boasts of a significantly bigger body, measuring 35 millimeters (mm) longer and 30 mm wider.

The latest generation of the Sonata is likewise slightly taller and has passenger space as its design priority.

“The all-new 2015 Sonata is the only car classified as a ‘large car’ in terms of interior space compared to its mid-size competitors, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),” HARI said.

The all-new Sonata is equipped with six-speed automatic transmission and available in the following colors: ice white, polished metal, phantom black and aquamarine.

HARI is introducing new vehicle models to support higher sales.

As of end-October, HARI has sold a total of 19,675 units, up 10 percent from the 17,905 units in the same period in 2013.

The 10-month performance was supported by the strong growth growth posted by the passenger car segment.

HARI is optimistic the holiday season would allow it to achieve higher total vehicle sales this year from a year ago.

HARI president and chief executive officer Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said earlier the firm expects to achieve total sales close to 24,000 units this year.

Last year, the firm sold a total of 22,033 units.