HYUNDAI

Next-generation Sonata sedan is threatened

Citing a company source, the publication reports that the automaker has not yet started development of the next-generation Sonata, and it is no secret that the car will be discontinued.

However, that will come later as the automaker has prepared a small facelift of the model for next year. This should keep the model relevant for a few more years before being discontinued.

Additionally, Hyundai has already revealed that the upcoming Ioniq 6 will be roughly the same size as the Sonata and will serve as a replacement for the original Ioniq. Of course, given the overlap with the Sonata, it's entirely possible that the Ioniq 6 will also serve as a replacement.

Changing consumer preferences led to the demise of many sedans in the United States, including the Chevrolet Cruze and Impala, as well as the Ford Fusion and Focus. Hyundai sold nearly 200,000 Sonatas in the United States in 2016, but that number has dropped significantly since then. Sales dropped to 131,803 units in 2017 and to 93,142 units last year. To make matters worse, the company sold just 9,806 units during the first four months of 2022.

While a source told the publication they "can't rule out an electric Sonata", the company is said to be "prioritizing the development of a compact electric vehicle over the less popular midsize car". Overlaying with the Ioniq 6 can also make Sonata EV redundant.

Autonews