Hyundai SONATA AWD Prototype Spied

When launching the 8th generation Hyundai Sonata, the first rumors said it will have a Sonata AWD version together with the new KIA K5. After the launch, the K5 got the AWD system but we are still missing this feature in the Sonata, that could change according to the latest spy picture of a prototype wearing HTRAC badge. What we know so far? During Sonata launch back in 2020, the guys at RoadShow specifically asked about the possibility of an all-wheel-drive Sonata during Sonata press debut in Seoul, South Korea, and Jae Young Kim, the director of Hyundai’s product division, said, “Yes … we are currently reviewing the need for all-wheel drive in the US market.” The 2020 Sonata’s platform — called N3 internally — is already on to underpin a number of other vehicles, including crossovers and SUVs. Because of that, the N3 chassis has been designed to support all-wheel drive from the get-go.

“In the future the SUVs will sit on this platform,” Kim said at the time, “so of course … the platform does have that.” but never arrived. An all-wheel-drive Sonata should helped Sonata to fight across an increase number of AWD saloons (like Subaru Legacy, Nissan Altima or Toyota Camry) and looks like Hyundai plans to take advantage from the facelift to add it finally. The sticker on the prototype showed this AWD system will use a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 8-speed automatic transmission. What do you think about the possibility of a Sonata AWD, or it’s too late?