(June 20, 2014) FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. — Hyundai today announced the third powertrain available in the all-new 2015 Sonata. The Sonata Eco is expected to deliver a class-leading 32 mpg combined fuel economy rating starting at $23,275, excluding destination charge. It will go into production at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama plant later this summer.

“Sonata Eco enhances the sophisticated design and confidence-inspiring driving dynamics of the 2015 Sonata with even more impressive fuel economy,” said John Shon, manager, product planning. “This innovative powertrain improves fuel efficiency without sacrificing the driving experience.”

The Eco is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged Gamma four-cylinder engine producing an estimated 177 horsepower and 195 lb. ft. of torque. It is the first Hyundai product to utilize a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which no other mid-size sedan offers. This innovative powertrain helps Sonata Eco deliver an estimated 28 mpg city and 38 highway. The estimated 32 mpg combined rating is segment-leading for a non-hybrid mid-size sedan and more than a 10 percent improvement over a 2015 Sonata SE powered by the 2.4-liter Theta II engine.

The Eco comes standard with all the features of Sonata SE plus a chrome grille, side mirror-mounted turn signal indicators, automatic headlights, a 10-way power driver seat with lumbar support, stitching on the instrument cluster hood, chrome interior door handles, 5-inch color touchscreen audio, a rearview backup camera and Blue Link telematics system.