Hyundai-Nishat is on the verge of introducing the Sonata mid-sized sedan in Pakistan. The vehicle will be introduced as CKD assembled model with first batch of over 400+ kits already reaching our soil. More importantly, the Hyundai Sonata that is going to be introduced is the latest 8th generation model that debuted in 2019.
Related: Comparison: Hyundai Tucson- New vs Old
This will also make Sonata, the first locally assembled Hyundai passenger car (in Pakistan) that’s in line with its global model. The previously introduced Tucson crossover SUV as well as the Elantra sedan launched earlier this year are previous generation models which have been replaced by newer generations in international markets.
The 4th generation Hyundai Tucson was unveiled just days after the 3rd gen model was launched here in Pakistan whereas in case of Elantra, the 7th generation model made its world debut almost a year before the 6th generation was introduced here. Although the 6th gen Elantra had made its world debut back in 2015, thankfully however, we received the facelift version which was unveiled in international markets in August 2018.
According to reports, Hyundai Sonata in Pakistan will come equipped with a choice of two engines- a 2.0L and 2.5L, with both units to come paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Salient features will include LED headlamps with LED DRLs, 18-inch alloy wheels, 8-inch touchscreen multimedia unit, wireless charger, push button engine start/ stop, dual-zone climate control, leather seats, front & rear parking sensors, reversing camera, cruise control and panoramic sunroof. The 2.0L variant will have dual airbags while the flagship 2.5L version will come equipped with 6 airbags in addition to a few improvements over the base model.
Related: Hyundai Sonata Unveiled at PAPS 2020
Hyundai Sonata competes against the likes of Toyota Camry and Honda Accord elsewhere, and will do so against the duo in our market too. However the Camry and Accord being CBU are priced way high at PKR 186 lac and PKR 119 lac respectively. The Sonata being a CKD assembled model is likely to be priced much lower than the aforementioned two, thus is expected to attract a good number of executive buyers who like to have a loaded sedan rather than a crossover SUV.
Hyundai Sonata in Pakistan
Hyundai’s all local assembled products including the Tucson crossover, Elantra sedan as well as the Porter commercial pickup are doing fairly well in terms of sales. Whether the upcoming Sonata will fetch buyers in decent numbers, we will have to wait to find out.
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
