The Hyundai Sonata VIII (DN8), particularly the facelifted model introduced in August 2023, represents a significant evolution in Hyundai’s mid-size sedan offering. The G2.5 GDi variant, equipped with a 2.5-liter gasoline direct injection engine producing 191 horsepower and paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, occupies a central position within the DN8 lineup. This configuration aims to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability, appealing to a broad range of buyers in the North American market and beyond. The DN8 generation, launched in 2019, marked a departure from previous Sonata designs with its more expressive styling and increased focus on technology. The 2023 facelift further refined this aesthetic and enhanced the vehicle’s technological capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata |
| Generation | Sonata VIII (DN8, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | G2.5 GDi (191 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4-9.4 l/100 km (28-25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2-6.5 l/100 km (37.9-36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4-8.1 l/100 km (31.8-29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | SULEV 30 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.4 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 capacity | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1499-1548 kg (3304.73 – 3412.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 472-521 kg (1040.58 – 1148.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 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 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 | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 205/65 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Sonata G2.5 GDi 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 direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for precise fuel control and increased power output, while the multi-port injection system assists during cold starts and low-load conditions. The engine features a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, which optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, further enhancing efficiency and performance. The engine produces 191 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 180.7 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Paired with this engine is an 8-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission offers a wide range of gear ratios to optimize fuel economy and provide responsive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 191-horsepower G2.5 GDi automatic Sonata delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented trim, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The 8-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, although it may exhibit some hesitation during quick downshifts. Compared to the more powerful turbocharged engines offered in the Sonata lineup, the G2.5 GDi prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for optimal fuel economy, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the sportier trims. However, the engine provides sufficient torque for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G2.5 GDi trim typically comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offer upgrades such as a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery generally consists of cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations are consistent across the DN8 generation, featuring a modern and minimalist design.
Chassis & Braking
The Sonata G2.5 GDi utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 305mm, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 284mm. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. Stabilizer bars are included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Sonata G2.5 GDi has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and comprehensive list of standard features. However, some reviewers have noted that the engine lacks the punch of the turbocharged options. In terms of fuel economy, the G2.5 GDi offers competitive figures compared to other mid-size sedans in its class. Reliability has been generally good, with few reported issues specific to this powertrain configuration. Compared to the higher-output turbocharged engines, the G2.5 GDi is typically more affordable and requires less expensive maintenance.
Legacy
The Hyundai Sonata G2.5 GDi (DN8) represents a solid and reliable option in the mid-size sedan segment. The Smartstream engine and 8-speed automatic transmission have proven to be durable and relatively trouble-free. As the DN8 generation ages, these models are likely to become increasingly attractive on the used car market due to their affordability, fuel efficiency, and comprehensive feature set. The combination of a naturally aspirated engine and a conventional automatic transmission appeals to buyers who prioritize simplicity and reliability over outright performance.
