Likely to arrive on our shores late in 2012 as a 2013 model year car, the Hyundai Sonata has received a mild facelift in its home market of South Korea… although you’d be forgiven for not noticing.

Updates include a revised front fascia (really?), new side mirrors, some new wheel choices and (of course) the obligatory LED taillights. Inside, look for improved materials, with some new trim options and better standard equipment. Several engine changes have been made overseas, but those updates are already a part of the current Sonata lineup in North America.

If we do in fact get these updates, expect an increase price as well.

[Source: TheCarBlogger]

Click here to read AutoGuide’s 2011 Hyundai Sonata Review

Click here to read AutoGuide’s 2011 Hyundai Sonata Turbo Review

Hyundai is planning to release five new models between now and 2012, according to a company info obtained by Autoweek.nl. Three of the five models are expected to make their way to North America.

The first model is the next generation Tucson, which will be based on the ix-ONIC concept that debuted at the Geneva Auto Show last March. It is expected to use a new turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and make 140hp. We captured a few spy photos (like the one above) of the new Tucson testing in California.

After the Tucson, will come two MPV versions of the i20 and i30, for sale in Europe and Asia.

In 2011, Hyundai is then expected to reveal the new Sonata (also known as the i40 in some markets). As well as a sedan, Hyundai is reportedly readying a wagon version of the car.

The final product will emerge at the end of 2011 and will be the “replacement” for the Tiburon. In fact, it won’t be much like a Tiburon at all and will actually be considerably smaller. Based on the Veloster concept, the car will feature a unique layout with two passenger doors but just one driver’s door and will be a hatchback. Power will come from either a 140hp turbocharged 1.6-lite four-cylinder or a 172hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder.

[Source: AutoWeek.nl via WorldCarFans]