The mid-sized aka D-segment sedans aren’t that popular in Pakistan talking about those offered by the local players. Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, both of which are offered as CBU act more like showpieces on showroom floors due to their insane prices. The Camry is sold for PKR 186.3 lac (1 crore 86.3 lac) whereas the Accord is available for PKR 119.99 lac (1 crore 19.99 lac).
However the segment saw addition of Hyundai Sonata, which was the first locally assembled D-segment sedan in Pakistan. Not only that its local assembled, its also the latest 8th generation model that’s in line with the rest of the world. Sonata comes rich in features & equipment and is priced at PKR 64.99 lac for the 2.0L variant and PKR 72.99 lac for the 2.5L variant. This means the most expensive CKD assembled Sonata variant is 61% cheaper than the CBU imported Camry and 39% cheaper than the CBU Accord.
The result is quite impressive in terms of sales as during the first 6 months of the current fiscal year, Hyundai-Nishat has managed to sell 1,240 units of Sonata which is almost as good as their own less expensive yet obsolete C-segment Elantra which saw 1,508 units sold during the same period. Its a common perception that a car which falls in the price league of over Rs 6.5 million won’t sell that good but let’s put it this way, the sales of Isuzu D-Max which cost PKR 66.0 lac for 3.0L manual and PKR 69.6 lac for the 3.0L automatic were just 253 units during the entire year. The average monthly sales of D-Max turned out to be just 21 units compared to a rather impressive 103 units a month for Sonata.
Related: Sonata- the First Local Assembled Hyundai to be Parallel With Global Model
This leads us to believe that in presence of crossover SUVs, the mid-sized sedans if rightly priced coupled with rich features & equipment can still sell well. And the impressive sales performance of Sonata might trigger other automakers to tap with their D-segment offerings in our market. Let’s have a look at the possible options that can compete against Hyundai Sonata in Pakistan.
Kia K5
The Kia K5
The new Kia K5, formerly known as Optima is considered a sister product of Hyundai Sonata. The overall design is similar to that of the Sonata, but with a fastback-like profile. Even the engine options are similar to that of its Hyundai cousin. Its pretty much what you see with the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson, two different products under the umbrella of same automotive group, sharing the engines & all the technical bits but aesthetically different from each other.
Changan Raeton CC
Changan Raeton CC
Changan which is doing so well with the Alsvin sedan in our market has a perfect answer to the likes of Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata in its global portfolio. Although it comes powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine, but the output figures are impressive at 155hp and 220Nm with power channeled to the front wheels via 6-speed automatic transmission.
Peugeot 508
Peugeot 508
Lucky Motor Company is on the verge of introducing a range of Peugeot crossovers in Pakistan including the 2008, the local assembled units of which are already rolling off the assembly lines, as well as the 3008 and 5008 crossovers later this year. However the French automaker also has the 508 mid-sized sedan in its product portfolio. It is available in a number of petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrain options with 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic gearbox options.
Skoda Superb
Skoda Superb
According to Premier Motors Limited (PML), the locally assembled Volkswagen and Skoda crossovers and SUVs are expected to hit the road by the mid 2023. This can open doors to the likes of Skoda Superb mid-sized saloon. Its also available in neighboring Indian market where its powered by a 2.0L engine & comes paired to a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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