Hyundai's New Sedan
Hyundai introduced the Avatar sedan this week at the New York International Auto Show in Manhattan. The Avatar is the replacement for the Sonata, and will be appearing as a 2000 model early next year.
The Avatar is a continuation of the unusual styling themes that Hyundai first introduced on the Accent. Slab sides, an aggressive grille, large headlights, and a big greenhouse make the car look awkward from some angles, but the Avatar has character that the Sonata was lacking.
The Avatar's biggest surprise, however, is under the hood. A Hyundai designed all-aluminum DOHC V6 engine has been developed for this car to work with a new electronic automatic transmission. Hyundai was coy about their new technology and was unwilling to discuss any of the engine’s specifications.
Hyundai has loaded up the Avatar with safety equipment as well, showcasing four-wheel antilock disc brakes, all-speed traction control, side-impact airbags, and depowered front airbags. Hyundai cites buyer’s increased concerns about passenger safety as reasons for these changes.
Hyundai would not reveal expected pricing for the Avatar, but did state that the car would remain competitive in the lower mid-size segment.
Hyundai introduced the Avatar sedan this week at the New York International Auto Show in Manhattan. The Avatar is the replacement for the Sonata, and will be appearing as a 2000 model early next year.
The Avatar is a continuation of the unusual styling themes that Hyundai first introduced on the Accent. Slab sides, an aggressive grille, large headlights, and a big greenhouse make the car look awkward from some angles, but the Avatar has character that the Sonata was lacking.
The Avatar's biggest surprise, however, is under the hood. A Hyundai designed all-aluminum DOHC V6 engine has been developed for this car to work with a new electronic automatic transmission. Hyundai was coy about their new technology and was unwilling to discuss any of the engine’s specifications.
Hyundai has loaded up the Avatar with safety equipment as well, showcasing four-wheel antilock disc brakes, all-speed traction control, side-impact airbags, and depowered front airbags. Hyundai cites buyer’s increased concerns about passenger safety as reasons for these changes.
Hyundai would not reveal expected pricing for the Avatar, but did state that the car would remain competitive in the lower mid-size segment.
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