The mid-size sedan segment is the third largest in the car industry. Along with stiff competition from Honda, Toyota, Ford and Nissan, Hyundai also has to combat changing consumer preference for SUVs, making competition all the more steep.

As Hyundai’s newest mid-size sedan, the Sonata builds on the success of previous generations of the car while introducing a number of dramatic design changes that are aligned with Hyundai’s evolving design philosophy. This progressive design approach results in a bolder, more sophisticated exterior, with precise lines and distinctive styling cues that reflect Hyundai Motor’s latest design language and even where it is headed in the future. The Sonata also continues the model’s strong reputation for performance, with driving dynamics coupled with an unsurpassed suite of advanced safety offerings.

At the front of the sedan, the new grille combines with the vertical LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and the narrower headlights, which are engulfed by the sculpted hood, for a sportier and more purposeful appearance. The larger, more prominent ‘cascading grille’ symbolizes the flow of molten steel, while also emulating the elegant shape of a Korean celadon vase.

Continuing this theme, the chrome on the front lower spoiler flows out toward the outer edges of the car, while the sleek and sensuously sculpted lines at the side are also complimented by chrome trim around the windows. From the side, the car’s designers have created a more dynamic attitude in the side profile by enlarging the trunk lid to counterbalance the lower, wider front radiator grille, making the hood appear longer and sleeker.

The large Sonata lettering and Hyundai logo added to the center of the trunk lid projects visual self-confidence, with the top portion of the badge also cleverly housing the truck release button. Other fine details such as new distinctive taillight graphics and dramatic illumination add interest to the rear, while the rear license plate holder has also been moved downwards from the boot lid to the lower bumper, boosting the car’s distinctive design flair.

The 17-inch directional spoked wheels add to the sense of purpose, with two new 18-inch alloy wheel designs also added to the line-up to offer a wider choice of styles for customers.

Further design enhancements have been made for the gasoline 2.0 Turbo model, which is available in North America, Australian and other selected markets. The front receives a sporty mesh radiator grille that is augmented by black bezel headlamps, black DRL surrounds, black lower front bumper and black side mirror casings. Other enhancements for the Turbo model include dark chrome molding for the lower side seal, door handles and rear lamp molding. The rear diffuser and dual exhaust mufflers are also adorned with chrome, to complete the car’s premium appearance.

Beyond interior and exterior aesthetics, the Sonata also delivers a simple, elegant user experience. The center console stack has been enhanced with larger features to create a more visually-striking appearance. Revised audio and ventilation controls are given ‘rocker’ buttons, enhancing the car’s premium feel, while a seven-inch color touchscreen display comes as standard on every new Sonata model, in South Korea and North America. A larger 8-inch Audio Visual Navigation (AVN) system can be specified in all markets.

All trims of the Sonata also have updated steering wheels with a new sportier three-spoke design. The 2.0 Turbo version receives a flat-bottomed steering wheel to reflect the sporty nature of the more powerful car. The range-topping Turbo also benefits from cossetting bucket seats and sporty gear knob that allows the driver to select one of four drive modes – Comfort, Eco, Sport and Smart – with the latter mode switching automatically between the first three options depending on the driver’s current style of driving.

Between elegant design, a streamlined user experience and the bold fresh face of the car, the 2018 Sonata highlights that there doesn’t need to be a compromise between aesthetic, performance, driver experience and safety. Achieving all of these is the hallmark of why the Sonata creates a better way of driving.