SEOUL, July 10 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's leading automaker Hyundai Motor Co. said Sunday that it has launched a new Sonata turbo model with upgraded performance and competitive options designed to meet consumer demands.

The new model of the top selling mid-size sedan has a 2.0-liter gasoline direct injection (GDi) engine that produces a maximum horsepower of 271 and 37.2 kilogram-meters of torque. The car, however, still has a fuel economy of 12.8 kilometers on a liter of fuel.

The performance numbers represent a 35 percent rise in horsepower and a 46 percent increase in torque compared to the current 2.4-liter Sonata GDi model, but the current model's mileage is slightly better at 13.0 kilometers on a liter of fuel, the carmaker said.

Besides using the Theta II turbo engine developed by Hyundai engineers, the new Sonata will have such options as LED cabin lamps, automatic defogging systems and use anti-bacteria natural seating materials.

Hyundai said that the overall dimensions of the turbo Sonata will not be changed from the existing models, but it will have an improved exhaust emission level and incorporate better air ingestion systems that are vital for better handling characteristics.

The vehicle, in addition, will have more dynamic-looking rear LED combination lights and 18-inch alloy wheels to add style and handling.

The company said that the luxury model will be priced at 28.50 million won (US$26,960), with the super-luxury unit to have a price tag of 29.60 million.

Hyundai's sister-company, Kia Motors Corp., meanwhile, said that the Theta II will be placed on its K5 Turbo GDi that will reach the market at the same time as the new Sonata.

The performance numbers of the K5 turbo are the same as those of the Sonata turbo, with the carmaker restyling the air ingestion and exhausts to enhance engine efficiency and reduce exhaust levels.

The "Prestige" model of the K5 will be priced at 28.15 million, with the "Noblesse" to cost 29.45 million won.