Hyundai Nishat Hints At Launching Sonata Facelift In Pakistan

Hyundai Nishat Motors has sparked excitement among Sonata enthusiasts by teasing the arrival of the facelifted 8th-generation model through its social media channels.

The 8th-generation Hyundai Sonata was launched in Pakistan as a CKD-assembled model in July 2021. Now, after 3 and half years, the company is gearing up to introduce the facelifted version of this D-segment sedan, which debuted in international markets in March 2023.

The Sonata facelift features significant updates to both its exterior and interior compared to the pre-facelift model. On the outside, the facelift introduces a bold full-width LED light strip, called the “Seamless Horizon Lamp,” at the front, paired with a more angular lower fascia for a futuristic look. The rear also features a sleek full-width LED taillight strip, enhancing the car’s modern aesthetic. Additionally, newly designed wheels are available for both standard and N Line variants, replacing the simpler designs of the pre-facelift version.

Inside, the facelifted Sonata boasts dual 12.3-inch curved displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment, seamlessly integrated into a single panel, compared to the pre-facelift’s separate screens. The dashboard layout has been modernized with updated climate controls and premium materials, creating a more minimalist and refined feel. The gearshift has been relocated closer to the steering column, freeing up space in the center console, and the steering wheel has been redesigned for a contemporary touch. Overall, the facelift adds a futuristic and premium edge while retaining the essence of the Sonata.

The Sonata facelift is available in both standard and hybrid variants. The standard models are equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection (T-GDI) and a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, both mated to an 8-speed conventional manual transmission. The hybrid variant features a 2.0-liter Smartstream GDi HEV engine, producing 152 PS of maximum power and 188 Nm of peak torque.

Hyundai Nishat has not yet disclosed whether the hybrid variant of the Sonata facelift will be launched in the country. However, given the recent influx of hybrid cars in Pakistan and the company’s launch of the new Elantra hybrid, the possibility of the Sonata hybrid cannot be fully ruled out. Some sources are also speculating the arrival of a sport N-Line variant, but we’ll have to wait for confirmation.

Sonata’s sales in Pakistan were initially impressive, but they began to decline in 2023, largely due to repeated price hikes. The slowdown in sales may have prompted the company to introduce the facelifted Sonata, which could potentially lead to a rebound in sales.

The current pre-facelift Sonata is priced at PKR 99.79 lac for the 2.0L and PKR 112.05 lac for the flagship 2.5L variant. Despite the slowdown in sales, the Sonata continues to be the best-selling D-segment sedan in Pakistan, outperforming its CBU rivals, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more updates on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata facelift in Pakistan.