At the launch event for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata, the company showed off a prototype version of the car's hotter version, the Sonata N-Line. Much like Hyundai's Elantra N-Line, the Sonata will pack a hotter engine than the standard car, more aggressive styling, and handling updates. The standard Sonata is available with either a 180-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or a 191-hp 2.5-liter normally aspirated engine but this new N-Line variant will offer a significant upgrade in performance.

When the Sonata N-Line arrives later this year, it will sport a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a turbocharger, producing around 290 hp going out through a new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Industry sources say Hyundai has already finalized the mass production schedule for the Sonata N-Line and begun the certification process. In other words, we should see the N-Line revealed later this year.

These same industry sources say that the car will enter mass production in May of this year, meaning we could see a full debut soon after. A June reveal at the 2020 Detroit Internation Auto Show could be planned but with the auto show calendar still in a state of flux due to the coronavirus outbreak, it remains to be seen when Hyundai will debut the car. Hyundai did have success with the virtual reveal of the 2020 Elantra, so perhaps it will plan a similar event for the Sonata N-Line.

The Sonata N-Line won't just have improved power. It will also be equipped with an improved cooling system and 19-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli performance tires. Similar treatment will be given to the Sonata's corporate sibling, the Kia Optima, which will be badged as the Optima GT. Following the reveal of the Sonata N-Line, Hyundai will release an N-Line version of the new Elantra followed by an even hotter Elantra N model. 2020 could be a great year for Korean performance cars.