Hyundai has just revealed a pair of photos showing the new i40, which will make its official global debut at the beginning of March at the Geneva Motor Show. Together with the new model comes a new brand slogan ‘New Thinking. New Possibilities’ - reflecting the company’s confident approach to design and engineering.
According to the official press release, the i40 is Hyundai’s first D-segment vehicle to be developed with European customers in mind, offering a package of powertrains, equipment and technology tailored to tastes. The model shown in the photos is in the estate form, the first variant to arrive in Europe via Geneva, while a saloon will soon follow later this year. This will most likely target the European saloon D-segment, with rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 508, Mazda6 and Volkswagen Passat in its cross-hairs.
Coming back to the estate, we can tell you that is exterior styling looks much closer to that of the American Elantra than we could have expected, while also incorporating the ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language. The roofline, which can make or brake a model like this, flows nicely into the rear lights.
Hyundai has promised a high level of standard equipment, including heated and reclining front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel and an active de-mist system that automatically detects and clears mist on the windscreen.
“Offering more for less has always been a fundamental principle at Hyundai, and now we are advancing this with our new brand direction under the ‘New Thinking. New Possibilities.’ slogan. The i40 is a perfect example of how we are offering the best and making it accessible to everyone. From stunning design and specification, to industry-leading technology and aftersales care – the i40 sets itself apart from its competitors,” stated Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, describing the new model.
autoevolution will be attending the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.
Google News