Is Hyundai Building A Camry Or An ES Killer With The 2011 Sonata?

As many of you know Hyundai officially announced the 2011 Sonata yesterday.  Immediately we thought we had a Camry killer on our hands. 

But after looking at these shots that surfaced just a bit ago, I think we really need to answer the question, did they target the Camry or the ES? 

It is pretty obvious that the entire Hyundai line is moving upscale falling somewhere in between Toyota and Lexus, hitting Toyota and many other automakers from both sides.

Think about it for a bit.  Why buy a high end Camry or Avalon when the Sonata can give you far more for the money?  Put the shoe on the other foot and ask why buy an ES when you can save thousands on a Sonata and get most of the features?

I'm not saying Hyundai is better than either brand, but there is a compelling argument here on what is premium and what is simply good enough. 

So did Hyundai target the Camry or the ES or land right in the middle of both?


2009 Frankfurt Auto Show Photo Gallery