The Sonata is produced as an entry-level Active model but uses the high-performance turbocharged engine normally only available on the flagship Premium version.

This variant, made in South Korea to the specifications of Hyundai Motor Company Australia (HMCA) and the police and not available to the public, has been selling to the Queensland Police since late last year and which now has fleet of 234 Sonatas.

HMCA CEO JW Lee said that with the demise of the locally made Commodore and Falcon sedans, the NSW Police is now interested in the Queensland contract.

“We are now undergoing testing with the NSW Police and we have given them samples of the car,” Mr Lee said.

The cars are the entry-level Active version fitted with the Premium’s 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, plus upgraded chassis and brake components and additional police-specific cabin hardware.

In Queensland, the Sonata was recommended as a replacement for the outgoing Commodore and Falcon sedans by PSBA Fleet Assets and endorsed by the Queensland Government’s QPS Fleet Governance Group.

Part of the evaluation showed that it would use up to 3800 litres of fuel less than the outgoing six-cylinder sedan over its estimated 80,000km lifespan, reducing carbon emissions and operating costs. It also has a five-year, 150,000km warranty.

By Neil Dowling