Beijing Hyundai's all-new Sonata debuts in China

Beijing Hyundai's senior management teams pose next to the ninth generation Sonata sedan during its China debut at the 12th China International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, Nov 20, 2014. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The ninth generation Hyundai Sonata which is set to launch in the Chinese market next year made its China debut at the 12th China International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.

Beijing Hyundai Motor Co expects the premium-positioned sedan to strengthen company's role as an important player in China's medium- and high-end passenger car market.

Known as Sonata 2015 in other markets, the ninth generation Sonata has a new look based on the new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language.

The all-new model is stretched to 4,855mm, 35mm longer than the eighth generation. With its 2,805mm wheelbase, the new model also seats more passengers.

The carmaker introduced four powertrains at one time for the localized model, including turbocharged power, gasoline direct injection, hybrid power and multi-point injection. The Sonata's 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, the 7-speed dual-clutch shift gearbox, and its high-strength body were highlighted at Beijing Hyundai's pavilion at the auto show.

Beijing Hyundai also added cloud computing and a new in-vehicle information system to the car.

This year marks the twelfth year since the founding of the Sino-South Korean joint venture. According to the company's press release, Beijing Hyundai sold 6 million vehicles faster than its competitors. The company's sales volume currently ranks fourth in China.

The average price of the company's vehicles rose to 140,000 yuan ($22,900) this year from 85,000 yuan in 2008.

Beijing Hyundai's ninth generation Sonata makes its China debut at the 12th China International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, Nov 20, 2014. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]