Hyundai Sonata N-Line Facelift vs Sonata Simple

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Back in mid-2021, Hyundai Nishat Motors introduced the 8th generation Sonata in Pakistan. Currently, it’s the only locally assembled D-segment premium category sedan in Pakistan that competes with many German options. 

After three years, Hyundai has finally decided to bring the facelift of the Sonata to Pakistan. However, Nishat Motors has taken an unexpected approach. Instead of introducing the standard 8th-generation facelift, they’ve opted for the N-Line trim—a sportier, performance-tuned version of Hyundai’s cars.

Let’s see what’s new in this N-Line 8th-generation facelift Sonata and what our POV is on it.

Note: This review has been written after extensively testing the Hyundai Sonata N-Line during its exclusive launch event at the Expo Center, Lahore.

Hyundai Sonata N-Line 8th Generation Facelift

The Hyundai Sonata N-Line, a part of the eighth-generation facelift, has officially launched in Pakistan. It’s a D-segment segment that combines superb performance and comfort. 

The facelift N-Line comes with a distinctive front light bar and hidden headlights. On the back, you’ll see the redesigned full-width LED light bar that follows across the trunk and resembles the “H” of Hyundai. The turn signals and reverse light also reassembled the race track shape (very attention to detail by Hyundai).

The rear bumper is sculpted with sharp lines, giving it a dynamic and muscular stance. The quad exhaust tips, finished in chrome, are a signature element of the N Line trim, and they all are real exhaust, not just for aesthetics (we tested it during the test drive).

However, from the sides, it looks the same as the pre-facelift Sonata. The wheels have got attention to detail as well; they are designed in a way that looks like the N, short for “N-line,” and FYI, they are 19″ in size.

 

The Hyundai Sonata N’s cabin is a masterclass in attention to detail. It features a dual-screen setup that combines the instrument cluster and infotainment display into a single curved panel, totaling about 24 inches of screen space. The center console has been redesigned, with the shifter relocated to the steering column to create more room for larger cupholders and storage compartments. The dashboard is clean, with horizontal vents and subtle ambient lighting running across its width.

The climate control panel below is capacitive and minimalistic. The temperature dial is physical, and you can press it inside to attach or de-attach your zone to the passenger’s climate.

On the center console, dual cup holders are placed for easy access, which comes with grips so the cup doesn’t fall off during a strong jerk. On the side, there’s a wireless charging pad lined with a non-slip surface,e and it supports Qi charging protocol so you can charge your iPhone and any Android device easily; positioned nearby, USB Type-A and Type-C ports, along with a 12V 180W socket. Transitioning to the armrest it features soft padding with red contrast stitching along with glossy piano black accents that are highly prone to fingerprints. Beneath, a felt-lined storage compartment offers good space for food items and other necessary items.

The seats are exclusive to the N-line, likely made of suede leather with red stitching and N-line accents. The front seats offer lumbar support and side grips to prevent slipping during high-speed turns. The back seats are equally comfortable, with ample space to accommodate three adults, and with moderate front seat adjustments, a six-foot-tall person’s legs won’t touch the front seats.

N-Line-specific details in the cabin include red trim across the dashboard and air vents, N badges on the steering wheel and front seats, and red stitching throughout.

 

The car gets a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 290 HP and 422 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds.

Our team took the test drive of the Sonata N-Line at the launch event in Expo Lahore, and the first ride impression: “Sonata N-Line is jaw-droppingly fast.”

During launch control, the acceleration was exhilarating—you could really feel the 422 Nm of torque kicking in. The inertia of the acceleration was so intense that one of our team member’s phones slipped out of their pocket and flew to the back seat. The car’s acceleration performance was genuinely superb.

The grip of the car was also commendable. Even during launch control with the traction control off, the car didn’t lose traction during the high-speed acceleration around a circular track. While we did hear the tires screech briefly for a few milliseconds, the car quickly regained its grip and remained perfectly controlled.

The exhaust sound wasn’t particularly loud; perhaps removing the resonator would make it sound more aggressive and thunderous. Inside the cabin, it seemed as though the car was producing artificial exhaust sounds through the speakers, which made the ride feel even more adrenaline-packed.

Hyundai Sonata 8th Gen

Hyundai Sonata 2025 Images - View complete Interior-Exterior Pictures | Zigwheels

The 8th generation Hyundai Sonata, launched in Pakistan by Hyundai Nishat Motors in July 2021, holds the distinction of being the first and only brand-new locally assembled D-segment sedan in the country. This was a good move in a market dominated by either C-segment sedans, SUVs, or imported vehicles. Priced competitively, the Sonata directly challenges used German C-segment sedans, offering better value for money as a brand-new, full-fledged D-segment option.

The Sonata’s design is up to the mark and modern, giving it a road presence unmatched by many locally assembled vehicles. While its driving dynamics may not match high-end imported rivals, it provides a balanced performance with a choice of two engine options: a 2.0-liter for efficiency and a 2.5-liter for those seeking more power. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Here is Expected Price of Upcoming Hyundai Sonata - PakWheels Blog

What sets Sonata apart is its category. For buyers considering used German sedans like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or BMW 3 Series, the Sonata offers a compelling alternative. It’s a brand-new car with warranty support, modern safety features, and no concerns about maintenance history or expensive repairs—issues often associated with used imports.

The resale of this car isn’t bad either, if not better, and it is close enough to another C-segment Japanese sedan that costs the same as Sonata (you know who).

1-1 Comparison of Sonata N-Line Facelift vs. Simple Sonata Pre-Facelift:

Here’s a 1-1 comparison of Sonata N Line and simple Sonata 8th gen:

Engine and Performance

  • Power & Torque: The N-Line outperforms the locally assembled Sonata 2.5 significantly, delivering 290 HP and 422 Nm of torque, compared to the 2.5’s 180 HP and 232 Nm.
  • Transmission: The Sonata N-Line comes with a more advanced 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), enhancing performance and gear-shifting speed.
  • Target Audience: While the Sonata 2.5 is tailored for comfortable everyday driving, the N-Line focuses on a sportier, performance-oriented experience.
Feature Hyundai Sonata 2.5 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
Engine Type Smart Stream 2.5 MPi, DOHC 16-Valve 2.5L Turbocharged, DOHC 16-Valve
Fuel Type Petrol Petrol
Displacement 2497 cc 2497 cc
Max Power 132 kW (180 HP) @ 6000 rpm 213 kW (290 HP) @ 5800 rpm
Max Torque 232 Nm @ 4000 rpm 422 Nm @ 1650-4000 rpm
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic 8-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
Drive Type Front Wheel Drive (FWD) Front Wheel Drive (FWD)
Drive Modes Smart/Sport/Eco/Custom/Comfort Sport/Sport+/Custom
Fuel System Multi-Port Injection (MPi) Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.5:1

Interior 

  • The Sonata N-Line offers a sportier cabin with N-Line-specific features such as red stitching, badging, and aluminum pedals, while the Sonata 2.5 focuses on a more traditional luxury experience.
  • The infotainment system is upgraded in the N-Line with a larger display and premium audio.
  • Both models share features like a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone climate control, but the N-Line stands out with sport-focused enhancements.
Feature Hyundai Sonata 2.5 Sonata N-Line 
Upholstery Leather Perforated leather grips, Red stitching & N emblem
Seats Power-adjustable (Driver: 8-way, Passenger: 4-way) N-Line Sport Seats (Driver: 12-way adjustable with memory)
Rear Sunshade Powered Powered
Infotainment 8-inch Display, 6 Speakers, Bluetooth 10.25-inch Display, Premium Boss Audio System
Air Conditioning Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control
Instrument Cluster 12.3-inch High-Resolution TFT LCD 12.3-inch N-Line Digital Display
Steering Wheel 4-Spoke Leather N-Line-Specific Leather with Red Stitching and Paddle Shifters
Sunroof Panoramic Roof Panoramic Roof
Accent Details Standard Camel Two-Tone Interior Red Accents on the Dashboard, Doors, and N-Line Floor Mats
Additional Features Smart Trunk Opener, Rear AC Vents, Powered Rear Sunshade N-Line Badging, Aluminum Pedals, and Sporty Trim

 

Exterior Details

  • The Sonata N-Line showcases a more aggressive and sporty exterior compared to the Sonata 2.5. It includes N-Line-specific styling cues like a unique front grille, sporty bumpers, and a rear lip spoiler that enhances its performance-oriented look.
  • Aerodynamics: With a lower ground clearance of 135 mm, the N-Line is designed for improved aerodynamics and handling, appealing to enthusiasts seeking better road dynamics.
  • Wheels and Tires: The N-Line’s larger 19-inch alloy wheels paired with wider 245/40 R19 tires not only contribute to a more commanding road presence but also offer enhanced grip and stability at higher speeds.
Feature Hyundai Sonata 2.5 Sonata N-Line
Body Type D Segment – Sedan D Segment – Sedan with Sportier looks and N-Line badging all over the exterior side
Dimensions (L x W x H) 4900 x 1860 x 1445 mm 4910 x 1860 x 1445 mm
Wheelbase 2840 mm 2840 mm
Ground Clearance 155 mm 135 mm
Wheel Size 18-inch Alloy Wheels 19-inch Alloy Wheels
Tires 235/45 R18 245/40 R19
Front Grille Black & Chrome Coating N-Line Signature Grille with Black Mesh Pattern
Headlamps Tetra LED Projection Headlamps LED Headlamps with Dark Chrome Bezels
Daytime Running Lights Gradient Hidden Light Technology LED DRLs with Sporty Design
Wheels 18-inch Alloy Wheels 19-inch N-Line Exclusive Alloy Wheels
Tires 235/45 R18 245/40 R19 (Wider tires for better grip)
Side Mirrors Body Color with Piano Black, Electrically Adjustable & Retractable Gloss Black Finish with Integrated Turn Signals
Sunroof Panoramic Roof Panoramic Roof
Rear Spoiler Not Available Integrated Rear Lip Spoiler
Exhaust Single Exhaust Tip Dual Twin Exhaust Outlets with Chrome Finish
Exterior Accents Chrome Door Handles, Chrome Window Trim Blacked-Out Window Trim, N-Line Badging
Front & Rear Bumpers Body Color with Piano Black Accents N-Line Sport Design with Larger Air Intakes
Side Skirts Body Color with Black Paint Sporty Side Skirts with Gloss Black Accents
Rear Combination Lamp Horizontal LED LED Tail Lamps with Unique N-Line Design
Mud Guards Included (Front & Rear) Not Included (For a Sleeker Look)
Roof Antenna Shark Fin Type Shark Fin Type
Door Handles Body-Colored with Chrome Coating Body-Colored with a Gloss Black Finish
Additional Features Standard Exterior Features N-Line Badging on the Grille, Side Fenders, and Rear

 

Safety Features

  • Both models are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, meeting the needs of modern buyers with airbags, advanced braking systems, and stability controls.
  • Features like Hill-Start Assist Control, Traction Control, and ISOFIX anchors enhance usability and family safety.
  • The N-Line matches the 2.5 in all safety specifications, confirming it retains essential safety while offering a performance edge.
  • The biggest difference in the N-line is the Hyundai SmartSense, which is not available in the simple pre-facelift Sonata.  SmartSense is a suit of ADAS and comes equipped with Forward collision alert, Lane Keep Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Speed Limist Assist, Rear Traffic Collision Assist, High-Beam Assist, Blind Spot Collision Assist, and Lane Following Assist.

Other standard features are:

Safety Feature Hyundai Sonata 2.5 Sonata N-Line
Driver Airbag Yes Yes
Passenger Airbag Yes Yes
Front Seat Side Airbags Yes Yes
Curtain Airbags Yes Yes
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Yes Yes
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution Yes Yes
Brake Assist (BA) Yes Yes
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Yes Yes
Traction Control System (TCS) Yes Yes
Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) Yes Yes
Parking Sensors (Front and Rear) Yes Yes
Auto Cruise Control Yes Yes
ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors Yes Yes
Seat Belt Warning Yes (Driver Only) Yes (Driver Only)

 

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