HYUNDAI'S wider, taller and roomier Sonata is all set to cause a 'big' hit when it goes on sale in the UK next spring. New Sonata is 55mm longer than the current model and its wheelbase has been extended by 30mm.

Front legroom is up by 10mm and rear legroom by 30mm. The front and rear tracks are also significantly wider which, together with a lower ride height, gives the car a more aggressive stance than the current model.

A new range of engines will feature including a newly developed 2.4-litre 'Theta' DOHC petrol engine, a potent 'Lambda' 3.3 V6, while an all new 2.0 VGT common rail turbo diesel will follow. The exact engine line-up and transmissions for the UK have yet to be announced.

As ever, safety was a priority for Hyundai engineers when creating the new Sonata and all models will come with front, side and rear curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes and three three-point seatbelts in the rear. The Sonata will continue with Hyundai's tradition of offering very high equipment levels, combined with superb build quality and excellent value for money.