2012 Hyundai Sonata: Ch-Ch-Changes

Hyundai has recalibrated the base 198-horsepower four-cylinder engine to improve its fuel economy. Now both the automatic- and manual-transmission models achieve 24/35/28 mpg city/highway/combined. That’s a 2 mpg city improvement for the automatic transmission model, which is the way most models come equipped. The new rating makes the Sonata the most fuel-efficient midsize car, according to Hyundai. The 274-hp, turbo 2.0-liter also gets a 1 mpg highway improvement; it’s now rated at 22/34/26 mpg.

All models come with a standard communication system, which Hyundai calls BlueLink. It works much the same as GM’s OnStar, offering vehicle protection and convenience and emergency features: For more information on BlueLink, go here.

The optional touch-screen navigation has been upgraded to a 7-inch high-resolution screen, which is up from 6.5 inches in 2011. Sonata Limited trims now come with a three-piece panoramic sunroof as standard equipment. A backup camera is now available on the SE trim when equipped with a navigation and sunroof option. Only Limited trims had that option in 2011.

Hyundai hasn’t announced a launch date for the 2012 model or released any pricing information.