The new 2020 Hyundai Sonata is a looker, and the South Korean automaker is looking to boost its performance with an N-Line performance variant. Early reports indicated that the Sonata N-Line would have at least 275 horsepower. Now, Car & Driver has some more specifications to share, and it’s more than we expected.
According to the outlet, the Sonata N-Line will be powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that will make at least 290 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Official figures for the engine aren’t out yet, as Hyundai is still finalizing engine calibration. The engine will be paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic that, reportedly, will also be fitted to the Hyundai Veloster N.
A more powerful engine over the regular Sonata won’t be the only thing the Sonata N-Line gets, though. The sedan will also have different anti-roll bars, dampers, and springs with a ride height that’s lowered by 0.2 inches. Larger brakes and available Continental Premium Contact 6 summer tires will also be included in the mix.
Joining the vehicle’s performance parts will be a slew of exterior changes. These will include things like a quad exhaust system, an aggressive body kit, special N-Line badges, dark chrome trim, and an entirely new front fascia, reports Car & Driver.
There will be a large difference between the upcoming Sonata N-Line and the full-blown Veloster N. The Veloster N, and any other N cars to follow, are built to handle heavy track use. N-Line models, like the Sonata N-Line, are more about bringing more performance for street use.
When the Sonata N-Line arrives, it will go up against the Toyota Camry TRD and the Honda Accord Sport. Power-wise, the Sonata N-Line fits between the two – the Camry TRD has a 301-hp 3.5-liter V6 with a sporty exhaust system, while the Accord Sport can be fitted with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 252 hp.
Suspension wise, the Camry TRD is 0.6 inches lower than a regular Camry and has new anti-roll bars. It also comes with Bridgestone Potenza summer tires and 19-inch matte-black wheels. The Accord Sport doesn’t have the same kind of extensive performance parts as the other two, but it does come with a quicker steering ratio, upgraded anti-roll bars, slightly larger tires, and 19-inch wheels. Out of the three, the Accord is the only model that has a manual transmission option. Nothing about the Sonata N-Line is certain, but we’re pretty sure Hyundai will keep the model an automatic-only case.
From the few specs that we have on the Sonata N-Line, the vehicle is shaping up to be quite a compelling option for consumers that want an athletic sedan, but don’t want something overly sport. The sedan is expected to go on sale next fall.
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