Wednesday, May 11 2005 12:47 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Seoul: Hyundai Motors is all set to launch an all-new Sonata in India by July-end, retaining the price at about Rs 16 lakh, and may also offer a replacement scheme to the existing customers of the premier sedan.

Disclosing this Seoul, B V R Subbu, President, Hyundai Motors India Ltd, said, "Quality audit test for the new model is underway. The test has to confirm that cars made in India are same as those produced in the US market."

The new model would be available in automatic and petrol versions, he said, adding the price has been retained at around Rs 16 lakh.

The company had stopped selling Sonata cars in India about six months back before selling 5,500-5,800 units.

Asked whether the company would offer a scheme to the existing Sonata customers to replace their car with the new model, Subbu said, "We are looking at some options. Nothing has been finalised. But in all probability, we may offer some replacement scheme."

On the main features of the new model, he said it would come with a completely redesigned body and a far more fuel-efficient engine. All safety features are on par with those existing in Europe.

The company is targeting to sell about 2,000 units annually and the car would be manufactured at its plant in Chennai, Subbu said, adding that six cars have already been produced for conducting audit test.