Hyundai won't be offering the all-new 2011 Sonata with a V6 engine, opting instead to go the four-cylinder route. It's not clear if the automaker plans to offer two different four-cylinders, but this week in South Korea, Hyundai did take the wraps off of the company's first direct-injection engine, a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder.
Using direct injection technology to get added power and reduced fuel consumption, the 2.4-liter four-banger makes an impressive 198-hp and 184 ft-lbs of torque. In comparison, the old 2.4-liter motor made 175-hp and 168 ft-lbs of torque.
No fuel-economy numbers have been announced, but with the old engine achieving 22/32 mpg, this new motor should get closer to 24/35 mpg.
It's entirely possible that this will be the only engine Hyundai will offer for the Sonata (until the hybrid model is announced), however, there is a possibility of a smaller, less powerful 4-cylinder, as well as a turbocharged version that would make V6-like power. A more powerful option isn't a sure thing, however, as V6 versions of mid-size sedans like the Sonata, Accord or Camry, make up a small fraction of a model's overall sales.
We expect to hear more about the new 2011 Sonata and this engine at the LA Auto Show in early December.
More:
Report: Hyundai to Equip 2011 Sonata With Automaker's First Direct-Injection Engine on AutoGuide.com
Report: Hyundai to Equip 2011 Sonata With Automaker's First Direct-Injection Engine
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