Hyundai Sonata I (Y1) gallery (1985–1988)
The first-generation Hyundai Sonata (Y1) executive sedan was produced from 1985 to 1988 as a luxury variant of the Stellar.
All photos
227
I (Y1)
0
1985–1988
II (Y2)
0
1988–1993
III (Y3)
0
1993–1998
IV (EF)
0
1998–2004
V (NF)
12
2004–2009
VI (YF)
43
2009–2014
VII (LF)
106
2014–2019
VIII (DN8)
60
2019
The first-generation Hyundai Sonata (Y1 platform) debuted in South Korea in November 1985. Created as a luxury derivative of the rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Stellar to compete against Daewoo Royale, it included high-end features such as power seats, cruise control, and body-colored bumpers.
Powertrains comprised Mitsubishi-derived 1.8-liter (95 hp) and 2.0-liter (110 hp) Sirius four-cylinder petrol engines, mated to five-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmissions. The Y1 generation was sold predominantly in South Korea, Canada, and New Zealand.
News
Hyundai news
Fifth-generation Hyundai Tucson production to launch in Kazakhstan with a $67 million investment
Astana Motors and Hyundai Motor Company have signed an agreement to localize production of the fifth-generation Hyundai Tucson at the plant in Almaty. Complete knockdown assembly including welding and body painting is scheduled to start in December 2027.
15.Sep.2026
Hyundai prepares massive off-road offensive with XRT and XRT Pro
Hyundai is turning its rugged XRT badge into a full-fledged sub-brand with plans to expand across its model range. The lineup will split between trail-styled XRT versions and genuinely capable XRT Pro variants, while dedicated concepts hint at future body-on-frame off-roaders.
09.Sep.2026
Next-generation Hyundai Elantra Hybrid detailed
The eighth-generation sedan brings a sharp design overhaul, larger dimensions, and a strengthened hybrid powertrain. Under the hood, a 1.6-liter setup now delivers 155 horsepower alongside a 10 percent improvement in overall fuel efficiency.
09.Sep.2026
Hyundai Unveils Its Refined Design Approach: 'Stronger, Not Louder'
We had an insightful discussion with Hyundai's North American design chief about the Boulder concept and how the brand is evolving its visual identity.
08.Apr.2026
