THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE
Model dossier
- Production period
- 1988
- Body style
- Berlina
- Engine
- Inline-4
- Type
- Mass
- Displacement
- 1,997 cc
- Power
- 120 CV
- Top speed
- 185 km/h
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR
Coachbuilding, design & conversions
PRICE & SALES RECORD
Vehicle value
- Original price
- Not documented
- Latest recorded sale
- Not documented
01 / THE STORY
History & context
The Hyundai Sonata, introduced as part of Hyundai’s effort to enhance its export lineup, reflects a sophisticated design approach executed by Italdesign. This collaboration, which began in 1970, aimed to produce a medium-high range three-box saloon that would appeal to international markets. The Sonata’s design stands out with its refined, uncluttered lines, embodying a sleek and modern aesthetic. At the heart of the Sonata’s design is a bonnet that seamlessly integrates with the grille and light clusters, flowing gracefully into the bumpers. This design choice not only contributes to the car’s visually appealing and well-proportioned look but also emphasizes a sense of continuity and harmony throughout the vehicle’s exterior. One of the Sonata’s notable features is its aerodynamic profile, achieved through innovative design solutions. The flush connection between the doors and the body enhances the car’s aerodynamic efficiency, reducing drag and improving overall performance. Additionally, the windscreen wipers are discreetly concealed beneath the bonnet line, a design choice that not only contributes to the car’s sleek appearance but also helps to maintain a cleaner, more streamlined front end. The Sonata represents a significant step in Hyundai’s design evolution, with Italdesign’s expertise playing a crucial role in shaping the vehicle’s aesthetic and functional attributes. The result is a car that not only meets the practical demands of a medium-high range saloon but also aligns with modern design principles, offering both elegance and efficiency. This model underscores Hyundai’s commitment to quality and innovation in its pursuit of global market appeal.
02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY
Specifications & construction
Production & construction
- Production type
- Mass
Engine & performance
- Engine configuration
- Inline-4
- Displacement
- 1,997 cc
- Power (CV)
- 120 CV
- Engine speed
- 5,000 rpm
- Drive
- Front-wheel drive
- Top speed
- 185 km/h
Dimensions & accommodation
- Wheelbase
- 2,650 mm
- Length
- 4,680 mm
- Width
- 1,750 mm
- Height
- 1,410 mm
- Weight
- 4 kg
- Doors
- 4
Design & manufacture
- Designer · Candidate
- Giorgetto Giugiaro
- Design Studio · Documented
- Italdesign
- Manufacturer · Documented
- Hyundai
06 / EVENTS & AWARDS
Events & awards
No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.
07 / THE VEHICLE IN DETAIL
Photo gallery 1 photographs
08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE
Archive
References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.
| Reference | Source type |
|---|---|
| Hyundai Heritage — 1988 Sonata Y2 specifications www.hyundai.com | Manufacturer heritage archive |













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