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Remember the Hyundai Sonata Facelift we showed you earlier this month? Hyundai-Sime Darby has just issued a press release confirming the availability of the “rejuvenated Hyundai Sonata” and detailing the new features present in the D-segment sedan, plus pricing.

One can recognise the Sonata Facelift by its new front grille which is described as more elegant. New wraparound tail lamps with LED illumination and a new pair of front fog lamps are also included. Exclusive to the 2.4 litre model are “cat-eye shaped” HID headlamps and LED positioning lamps just above the fog lamps.

The LED wing mirror repeaters have been redesigned for a slimmer and sleeker appearance. Lastly, the wheel designs are new, and the 2.4L version now gets 18-inch rims.

Inside, there’s a repositioning of buttons on the centre console and the addition of a “deep blue LED backlight” for better visibility. And as pointed out by some in our original post, the gear knob and shift pattern are also different. The 2.4L adds on dual-zone climate control.

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What’s interesting is the addition of a Lukas Blackbox Video Recorder that provides real time recording of the situation in front while the car is moving. In the event of an accident, the blackbox recording can be presented as evidence. This is not a common feature in Malaysia, and the Sonata has to be the first to offer such a function.

Under the 2.0L’s hood is a new Nu 2.0 litre four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous Theta II unit. The Nu’s aluminum block and head contributes to a 30%, or 33.6 kg, reduction in engine weight while still providing comparable strength. The Nu also has an offset crankshaft design that reduces friction between the piston and cylinder wall for a slight improvement (1%) in fuel economy.

Sonata Facelift 2.0L Elegance – RM137,888
Sonata Facelift 2.0L Executive – RM145,888
Sonata Facelift 2.0L Executive Plus – RM149,388
Sonata Facelift 2.0L Sport – RM151,888
Sonata Facelift 2.4L Premium – RM173,888
Sonata Facelift 2.4L Sport – RM176,388

The above prices are on-the-road and inclusive of insurance. Buyers get a five-year/300,000 km warranty and 24-hour road assist service.