PIMS New Cars 2010 HARI All-New Hyundai Sonata

The All-New Hyundai Sonata:  

Inspired by Nature, Driven by Engineering

Is it possible to use natural designs from the environment to create engineering feats that are much more efficient than those in use today?

Many material engineers and research and development (R&D) experts agree that, since time immemorial, humans have always looked to nature for inspiration to solve the simplest to the most sophisticated problems that baffle them.  Only now that they possess state-of-the-art instruments and a broader knowledge-base in engineering that they are able to fully explore the possibilities of incorporating natural systems as models for their technologies.

BIOMIMETICS, derived from the Latin bio (life) and mimesis (to imitate), is the new branch of science that deals with the imitation of living systems, such as the shapes and colors of animals and plants, to create novel inventions that can give solutions to mankind’s problems. For example, aircraft designers have already constructed more aerodynamic airplane wings and turbines inspired by the bumpy flippers of humpback-whales.  Computer engineers have also used the remains of diatoms, aquatic unicellular algae made of silica, to create highly-sophisticated computer chips better than the most expensive ones today.  While helicopter engineers have already built very mobile stealth choppers based on the unique flying motion of hummingbirds.

In the automotive world, Hyundai’s research and engineering team has drawn inspiration from the orchid flower to build one flawless driving element that promises to change the face of mainstream driving.  The result: the All-new Hyundai Sonata – the newest Next Generation mid-size sedan that has duplicated the aesthetic and symmetrical values of the orchid.  But looking deeper to its finer details, one would realize its direct resemblance to yet another element of nature – water – free-flowing and dynamic – which makes it a flawless beauty that exceeds expectations and opens broad horizons in the future of mobility.

An innovative design in a designer world

We live in a designer world.  If evolution serves us right, then it is only natural for us humans to create equally beautiful innovations as those of the works of Mother Nature. Albeit different in form with its cast of glass and metal, the All-New Hyundai Sonata still captures the delicate beauty of the orchid and has given new meaning to the language of fluidity.

With the exterior outlines alone, the Hyundai Sonata exemplifies a sleek and sloping sedan design that gives it the capacity for greater speed.  Its Fluidic Sculpture unraveled by an elegantly sloping roof and sweeping character lines, proves that it is a car built not only for second-glances, but speed as well, as its overall shape dictates impressive aerodynamic features and agility.

Expression over the road is an air-cutting experience as the Sonata is a natural air wedge that effortlessly cuts wind blares especially at speeding velocities.  This means less drag and greater fuel efficiency for practical purposes.

Embellished on the seamless, clear-cut body of the Sonata are visibility-enhancing features such as the cat-eye shaped HID Headlights with Auto-leveling and Auto Light Control functions that operate at the maximum of their brilliance especially at night; Fog Lamps that offer extra visibility during foggy days; LED Outside Mirror Repeaters for that easy-to-see signal when turning; Wrap-around LED Rear Clusters; and a High-Mounted LED Stop Lamp.

An emerging paradigm

Just like the science of biomimetics, the redesigned Hyundai Sonata is a paradigm in the making with its promising and inspiring features aspiring car buyers would be raring to experience.

At the heart of the redesigned Sonata is a powerful 2.4-liter Theta II MPI engine—dubbed the most powerful petrol engine in its class, that can deliver up to a maximum power output of 178ps at 6,000rpm and a staggering torque of 23.3kg-m at 4,000rpm, reinforcing the intensity of this exquisite sedan beyond the contours of its mesmerizing physique.  

In shifting gears, it employs a gate-type 6-speed H-Matic automatic transmission system, which offers an easy, unobstructed command over acceleration for that fluidic yet powerful expression on the road.

But speed isn’t always about raw power.  Adding to the remarkable performance of the Sonata’s gasoline-fed powerhouse is its emission quality that is eco-environmental at a molecular level. With reduced fuel consumption, it becomes a most economical drive to help you keep gas and maintenance expenses to a minimum.  It also boasts of minimized engine vibration, particularly when idling and accelerating, to keep your driving expeditions as slick and comfortable as possible.

Beneath the Sonata, two sets of 17” (or 18” for the premium model) alloy wheels provide optimum motoring capabilities, which provide adequate rolling resistance for that safe grip on the road.

But the most interesting part is what happens between the wheels and engine – that unique two-way communication between the driver and the car.  Upgraded with an Amplitude Selective Damper, this mid-size sedan automatically regulates its shock absorption mechanisms beneath its chassis, thus increasing driving stability and comfort even on rough roads.  Reliable stopping power is achieved with its front and rear disc brakes amplified by a brake booster, triggering instant yet safe braking.

A breathtaking aesthetic evolution

Immerse yourself in the Sonata’s impressive design lines and you’ll realize from every angle that it has got what it takes to stand head and shoulders with reputable contenders in its class.  Perhaps one of its most distinctive features is a sleek all-glass 3-piece panoramic sunroof (Premium variant) equipped with unique motor-operated sunshades for the front and the rear, stretching your driving freedom to a whole new direction.  This luxurious feature allows you to bask under the sun rays or provide an al fresco ride perfect while traveling miles upon miles of open roads.

Inside, the interior comes very much equipped with an impressive new look.  Slip in its leather seats (Premium variant) that provide a cozy and ergonomic experience.  While the seats provide a traditional feel, the X-design center fascia impresses you with its forward-looking design with its enhanced vacuum fluorescent display which lights up in cool blue, especially helpful at night.

Starting the engine is yet another story to begin your road journey as the all-new Sonata now employs a Push Button Ignition (Premium variant) that won’t require you to turn in your key anymore.  And while the Organ-type Accelerator Pedal gives you superior leg comfort during long drives, the innovative Paddle Shifters behind the steering wheel make you feel like riding a race car as you can now change your gearshifts at your fingertips.

Music aficionados will surely find the Sonata faithful to its musical derivation with its audio system with built-in radio, CD and MP3 players, and Aux inputs.  Built with an en suite iPod and USB ports, the Sonata gives you the freedom to connect your music gadgets and listen to your favorite tracks with its six (6) speakers, subwoofer, and external amplifier (Premium variant).

Comprehensive security features are also integrated into this next-generation Hyundai sedan such as advanced airbag technology, seatbelts with pretensioner (for both driver and passenger seats), and impact sensing auto door unlock and speed sensing auto door lock. 

The Sonata also utilizes the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard to keep the wheels from locking instantaneously, thereby preventing skids. Coupled with an Electronic Stability Control or ESC, traction is greatly enhanced, correcting understeer or oversteer condition during cornering and stabilizes the car to help the driver regain control.  The Sonata is also equipped with the Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) and Brake Assist System (BAS) that prevents the vehicle from slipping for up to two seconds when stopped on an incline and reduces braking distance by increasing brake oil pressure during sudden braking, respectively.

Nature had been in existence for millions of years before the first men have roamed the planet.  Although man sits in the highest rung of the evolutionary scale, way beyond the rest of the DNA pool, we humans cannot deny the fact that we take inspiration from nature to create new elements of change.  We base a large portion of our future engineering, such as our automobiles, to the structures of nature.  Just like the All-New Hyundai Sonata. Innovative.  Ingenious.  Resourceful.  Sustainable. 

Stretch the boundaries of possibilities and discover a new beauty – a new driving element – with the All-New Hyundai Sonata!