Story: Third Generation Hyundai Sonata (1993-1998)

While the test mules of the next-gen Hyundai Sonata (codenamed as DN8 – the “8” is due to it will be the 8th gen) continues its development, here at Korean Car Blog we want to make a review through 7 generation of Sonata models. Today is the turn for the third generation.

[ads id=”9″]The Hyundai Sonata (Korean: 현대 쏘나타) was manufactured for the first time in 1985 and through many years it has changed its looks and technology to become one of the most popular models in the world. The first generation Sonata through the concept of “Art of Technology” showed a much different concept with simplistic straight lines. 

The third generation Sonata (codenamed Y3) was introduced in 1993 as a 1995 Model Year for the US-market, this was called as “Sonata II”. The engine was upgraded to the Sirius L4, a 2-L engine that output 126 hp with an optional Mitsubishi 3.0 V6 145 hp on some overseas markets. Production started at Hyundai’s Ulsan Plant in 1993, and after the dismiss of Bromont Plant (Quebec) in September 1993, all Sonatas was manufactured in South Korea until the opening of the Beijing Hyundai Plant in 2002, later Hyundai built the Sonata NF (fifth generation) in Alabama Plant (U.S.) since 2006. 

Third generation Sonata (left) compared with a 1996 facelift version (right)

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A 1994 UK Sonata model was available as a 4-door saloon only, with the 145 hp V6 engine and also had as standard: ABS, air conditioning, an alarm, alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers, CD Multichanger, climate control, cruise control, driver’s airbag, electric driver’s seat, electric mirrors, electric sunroof, folding rear seats, front electric windows, front fog lights, a full size spare wheel, heated mirrors, isofix child seat anchor points, leather seat trim, lumbar support, PAS, passenger’s airbag, rear electric windows, remote locking, Sat Nav, side airbags, and traction control. There was also an additional CDX model with a 2.0lt engine, which has most of the standard model’s features, minus the CD Multichanger, climate control, cruise control, Sat Nav, traction control.

1993 Hyundai Sonata (Third-gen)

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The Sonata II would be followed by a first facelift in 1996. Though not a major change, with this modification Hyundai tried to move the Sonata in a more luxurious market. In order to achieve this they took a headlight design similar to that of Mercedes or Jaguar. The rear of the car was also modeled after the other luxurious sedans, a fact which indeed aided sales that went up by 25% the first year. Another modification was made in the engine compartment where the 2.0 liter engine received a boost in power taking it to total output of 137 hp.

1996 Hyundai Sonata Facelift