New Car Reviews- Hyundai Sonata Embera

Hyundai Motor India Limited launched the fifth-generation Sonata Embera, setting new standards in technological excellence with a 2.4-litre petrol engine and a 2-litre diesel engine, improved styling, refined interiors and advanced safety features. The new car will take on competitors in the premium luxury D-Segment on Indian roads.

Dynamic suspension and an excellent rear-seat ride quality, one of Sonata's key appealing features, continue to dominate the Sonata's redesign. Hyundai Motor says that the Embera offers much higher fuel efficiency because of its light weight and aluminium engine block. With its contemporary international styling, refined driving dynamics and 170-mm ground clearance, it is time to take a second good look at the Sonata Embera.

The Embera comes in four trims -- 2.4MT, 2.4AT, 2L CRDi AT, and 2L CRDi MT diesel versions. All the variants are available in five colours viz. Noble White, Ebony Black, Crystal Silver, Deep Pearl Blue and Charming Grey.

Under the hood, the Embera sports a high-power 2.4 litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, which forks out a powerful 163 bhp @ 5,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 23.6 kgm @ 4,250 rpm. Mated to a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed H-matic automatic, the new aluminium engine features Variable Timing Valve Train (VTVT). Hyundai boasts that the Embera delivers plenty of low-end torque, quick response, excellent pick-up and great performance

The four-speed H-matic transmission, when set on tiptronic mode, allows some manual input for maximum driving pleasure. Hyundai mentions that the light-weight aluminium engine block improves fuel efficiency levels, which even out at 6-7/9-10 kmpl (city/highway). The all-new 2L CRDi engine pumps out 140 bhp at 4,000 rpm and 33 kgm of torque between 2,000 to 2,680 rpm. The diesel variant gets a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. The Embera features independent double wishbone with coil springs in the front and an independent multi-link type with coil springs in the rear. The sedan exhibits excellent driving manners at all speeds, and the suspension does not allow evident body rolls during hard cornering.

The Embera's profile is distinguished, classy and contemporary, with styling taking on soft, sensuous lines that hint at the car's luxury and refinement. Wrap-around clear-lens headlamps enclose jeweled projector lights with silver bezels; the bumper incorporates trapezoidal fog lamps and chrome-embellished strips.

The hood, featuring a prominent V-shaped ridge, meets the chrome-lipped signature grille. Wrap-around tail lamps (resembling those of the Honda Accord's) and sporty twin exhaust notes bring up the rear, balancing the front visage and emphasising the car's new international styling. Flared wheel arches feature 16-inch alloy wheels, and tubeless tyres give the Embera a sturdy, well-heeled profile. The new version is also a bit wider and taller than the Honda Accord.

The interior is well-accommodated, and build quality is immaculate; the cabin features a two-tone fascia in beige and black. Standard features include air-conditioning, AM/FM radio, an in-dash music system and 6-CD changer, tilt and telescopic steering, cloth or leather upholstery and faux wood trim on the dash. Storage abounds with cup holders, ashtrays and map holders. The dashboard and the centre console are compact, and controls are easily accessible. The large plastic area on the dash tends to deflect from the car's otherwise luxurious fit and finish. Air-conditioning is quiet and effective.

Safety features include an anti-lock braking system, driver and passenger airbags, child safety locks, and seatbelt pre-tensioners.