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Hyundai's all-new Sonata takes quite a radical departure in design when compared with the Korean company?s previous models.

Current specifications for the sedan are a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine ? producing about 150kW - coupled to a new six-speed transmission.

Hyundai plans to make life tougher for rivals in this segment by offering more high-tech features as standard, such as Bluetooth connectivity, heated front and rear heated seats and touch-screen navigation on all models.

It is possible that these specifications could change slightly for the local market, but what is most important is that the company is fighting harder to retain customers and gain new ones.

Leading with safety

Hyundai says the 2006 Sonata was the "first popular midsize car to offer standard electronic stability control (ESC) and six airbags" and this model "builds on this leadership" with a myriad safety features including front row crash bags, front side impact and curtain airbags, ESC and traction control, ABS with brake-force control, front active head restraints, tire pressure monitoring system, and a Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

Even without all the added technology and safety, the new design makes it an attractive proposition.

Bulbous bumpers and a rather bland profile have been replaced with curves and sharp creases. The front and the upturned edges of the grille seem to be pulled back in a snarl and the lines on its face are drawn up and over the body. A sharp fold across the door handles and a crease just above the floor-pan line give length and an up-market edge to the car.

Just as the i20 has garnered a new group of fans, it's likely that the Sonata ? backed by Hyundai?s growing reputation for quality cars ? is going to shake up the market.