Hyundai Sonata N Rumors Sparked By Camouflaged Prototype

A couple of intriguing spy photos have surfaced online, sparking speculation about a potential high-performance version of theHyundai Sonata. The images - posted on South Korea'sAutospy forums- showcase a camouflaged prototype of the facelifted Hyundai Sonata released earlier this year.

While the prototype resembles existing Sonata models, the red side skirts stand out, typically associated with full-fledged Hyundai N performance cars. In contrast,the N Line versionsusually feature silver or black highlights, indicating a milder performance upgrade.

While this prototype could potentially be the high-performance Sonata N, it may alternatively serve as a preview of a new styling kit available as an optional extra or dealer accessory for the Sonata N Line in select markets.

The red brake calipers seen on this prototype are already available in South Korea as standard or optional equipment for the Sonata N Line. Moreover, the twin exhaust pipes on the prototype are merely test pipes used in emissions laboratories, with the showroom version of the Sonata N Line boastingfour circular exhaust outlets.

If this car were to make it into production as the Sonata N, the extent of its performance upgrade remains uncertain. The current Sonata N Line boasts a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, generating 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft. No more potent versions of this engine are present in other front-wheel-drive Hyundai or Kia models.