WHAT IS IT?

An updated version of Hyundai’s Sonata mid-size sedan that rivals the Toyota Camry, Mazda 6 and the incoming, imported Holden Commodore. This isn’t an all-new car, but rather a facelift that brings overhauled styling for a sportier look, important tech and safety upgrades and a revised two-tier model line-up that starts at $30,990 for the entry-level Active and tops out at $45,490 for the range-topping Premium model we’re driving here.

WHY WE’RE DRIVING ITTo see if the updated Sonata can deliver on the promise shown by its LF-series predecessor. While far from perfect, we praised the old Sonata’s fluid handling, impressive list of equipment and spacious interior, though criticised its busy ride and uninspiring dynamics. Can this new model bridge the gap?

2018 Hyundai Sonata rear

THE WHEELS VERDICTSleeker to look at and now even better-equipped, the 2018 Sonata continues the nameplate’s march in the right direction but still lacks the dynamic polish and all-round appeal to challenge the best in its class. And no AEB availability is a disappointing omission.

PLUS: Boosted equipment and safety tech; practical and spacious; fluid handling; gutsy 2.0 turbo MINUS: AEB unavailable; torque steer and axle tramp; uninspiring dynamics

2018 Hyundai Sonata steering wheel

Well, fast-forward 12 months and the updated Sonata has arrived. Now boasting overhauled styling that ditches the old car’s restrained and slightly dour look for a sportier and sleeker appearance with a cascading front grille, the 2018 Sonata also brings important tech and safety upgrades and a rationalised, two-tier model line-up. The mid-spec Elite variant is no more, with the range now starting at $30,990 for the entry-level Active and, as before, tops out at $45,490 for the flagship Premium variant we’re testing here.

2018 Hyundai Sonata side

Inside a revised centre stack with piano-key buttons houses an 8.0-inch touchscreen with sat-nav and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity.

Premium versions gain the most bells and whistles, with new additions to an already extensive list of standard equipment including a flat-bottomed steering wheel, a wireless phone charging pad and an updated safety pack that brings blind spot detection, lane-departure warning and radar cruise control. Disappointingly, despite Hyundai Australia’s best efforts, AEB isn’t available on either Sonata variant as the potentially life-saving tech isn’t offered to our market.

As before, the Sonata’s cabin is spacious and comfortable with ample knee, shoulder and headroom in both rows, plus excellent vision and an airy, light-filled ambience helped by the Premium’s standard panoramic sunroof. Rear-seat passengers are well catered for too, with centre air vents, window blinds and well-padded seat cushions.

2018 Hyundai Sonata boot

Yet there are flaws. Despite the better rubber, wheel spin and torque steer are apparent in the Premium with heavy throttle inputs and on poor surfaces the ride is consistently busy. They’re niggles that take the edge off what is a well-judged dynamic package and mean that despite its improvements, the 2018 Sonata falls largely into the same trap as before: much to like and little to offend, but also little to excite.

SPECS

Model: Hyundai Sonata Premium Engine: 1998cc 4cyl, dohc, 16v, turbo Max power: 180kW @ 6000rpm Max torque: 353Nm @ 1350-4000rpm Transmission: 8-speed automatic Weight: 1560kg 0-100km/h: 7.0sec (estimated) Economy: 8.5L/100km Price: $45,490 On sale: Now