The Hyundai Sonata VIII (DN8), particularly the facelifted 2023 model year, represents a significant evolution of Hyundai’s mid-size sedan. Introduced in August 2023, the G2.5 GDi variant, producing 191 horsepower and equipped with Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission, occupies a prominent position within the Sonata lineup as a well-equipped and capable offering. This variant aims to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability for the North American market, where the Sonata competes with established rivals like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata |
| Generation | Sonata VIII (DN8, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | G2.5 GDi (191 Hp) HTRAC AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | SULEV 30 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 191 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101.5 mm (4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1572 kg (3465.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2095 kg (4618.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 523 kg (1153.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 441 l (15.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4910 mm (193.31 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2840 mm (111.81 in.) |
| Front track | 1618-1623 mm (63.7 – 63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625-1630 mm (63.98 – 64.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 950 mm (37.4 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1120 mm (44.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels driven by clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 305 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 284 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Sonata G2.5 GDi HTRAC is Hyundai’s Smartstream 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine boasts a relatively high compression ratio of 13:1, contributing to its output. The engine is equipped with a Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) system, which allows for precise control of valve timing, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The eight-speed automatic transmission, developed in-house by Hyundai, is designed for smooth and responsive shifting. It features shift-by-wire technology, eliminating the traditional mechanical linkage between the gear selector and the transmission. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system employs an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 191 horsepower and 180.7 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.5-liter engine, coupled with the eight-speed automatic, provide adequate performance for everyday driving. While not a sports sedan, the Sonata G2.5 GDi offers brisk acceleration and confident highway cruising. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth gear changes and responsive downshifts. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system significantly improves traction, particularly in inclement weather, offering a more secure driving experience compared to front-wheel-drive variants. Compared to the base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the 2.5-liter offers a more linear power delivery, while lacking the outright punch of the turbo. Compared to higher trim levels with more powerful engines, this variant prioritizes fuel efficiency and affordability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sonata G2.5 GDi HTRAC typically comes well-equipped with standard features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, and comfortable cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels offer upgrades such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and additional ADAS features. Optional extras often include premium paint colors and various accessory packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Sonata VIII utilizes a front McPherson strut suspension and a rear multi-link suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to balance ride comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Sonata G2.5 GDi HTRAC has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of features. Fuel economy is competitive within its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system. Compared to other trims, the G2.5 GDi HTRAC offers a compelling balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability, making it a popular choice for buyers in regions with harsh winters or challenging road conditions.
Legacy
The Smartstream 2.5-liter engine and eight-speed automatic transmission have proven to be reliable powertrains in other Hyundai and Kia models. While long-term durability data is still emerging for the 2023 facelifted model, the underlying technology has a solid track record. The Sonata G2.5 GDi HTRAC is expected to hold its value reasonably well in the used car market, particularly in areas where all-wheel drive is highly desirable. Its combination of practicality, features, and all-weather capability should ensure continued demand for years to come.
