Hyuandai to Unveil 6 New Models At Paris Motor Show

Hyundai i20

SEOUL : October 2, 2008 - Six new Hyundai models will make their international debut at the Paris Motor Show today. Designed at Hyundai’s European Design Centre in Russelsheim, Germany, the new five-door i20 will be the highlight at the show. The i20 is due to be launched in Europe towards the end of 2008. Hyundai will unveil the i20 blue, the Santa Fe blue Hybrid, the new seven-seater ix55 luxury utility vehicle, the Genesis Coupe show car and the Genesis sports saloon.


i20

Introduction
With its fresh and head-turning styling, versatile interior, class-leading safety and engaging driver dynamics, the sparkling new i20 takes centre stage on the Hyundai stand at this year’s Paris Mondial de l'Automobile. Building on the reputation for peerless reliability and exceptional cost-effectiveness established by its Getz predecessor, i20 offers drivers more of everything – enhanced functionality from the intelligently configured cabin layout, higher levels of luxury, convenience and safety equipment, engaging handling from its all-new chassis and tuned suspension, and an extensive seven-strong line-up of punchy petrol and frugal turbo-diesels engines, with the choice of manual or automatic transmissions. Designed and developed in Europe to meet the high expectations of European drivers, and benefiting from Hyundai’s unlimited mileage three-year warranty, the i20 arrives fully armed to succeed in Europe’s ultra-competitive supermini sector. Initially available as a five-door model, a sportier three-door i20 version will debut in January 2009.

Style and Design
Designed at Hyundai’s European headquarters in Russelsheim, Germany, the chic new i20 follows in the stylish European footsteps of the acclaimed i10 and i30 models. Lower, longer and wider than the Getz it replaces, the five-door i20 rides on an extended 2525mm wheelbase, enhancing both its athletic stance and spacious interior architecture. Featuring Hyundai’s distinctive design motifs – a bold chrome-topped grille flanked by piercing teardrop headlamps at the front and striking stacked rear light clusters – the i20’s modern lines are further strengthened by neat detailing, including colour-co-ordinated bumpers, sills and wing mirrors, integrated antenna, mechanical boot release, flush-mounted door handles and chunky standard-fit 16-inch 12-spoke alloy wheels. And new i20 arrives with a palette of 10 new solid and metallic exterior hues – including fashionable Crystal White.

Interior
Luxury and versatility blend seamlessly in the new i20’s spacious and generously appointed cabin. With all four trim levels – Classic, Comfort, Style and Premium – featuring climate control, a powerful four-speaker radio, CD and MP3 audio system with integrated data display screen, a multi-function steering wheel, tyre pressure monitoring system, height-adjustable driver seat, keyless entry and electrically operated windows and side mirrors, i20’s list of standard features puts it head and shoulders above the majority of its rivals.

Suspension, Ride Quality and NVH
In keeping with its dynamic styling, i20 rides on an all-new platform that delivers an athletic and agile driving experience. With much of the car’s ride and handling development work undertaken on European roads – hot weather testing was carried out in Spain, cold weather testing in Sweden and high-speed testing in Germany – Hyundai’s ride and handling engineers have ensured i20’s front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension delivers the taut and alert ride quality favoured by the European market. The new rack and pinion steering setup has also been tuned to deliver quick and accurate responses resulting in excellent urban agility. Extensive use of advanced noise reduction materials throughout the development process – particularly in the diesel-powered models – has resulted in exceptionally high levels of refinement, imbuing i20 with a sophisticated and cosseting cabin ambience.

Powertrain
Hyundai’s new i20 debuts with a range of seven petrol and diesel engines that have been extensively revised to deliver greater performance, enhanced economy and lower emissions than before. The Euro IV-compliant petrol line-up comprises the 78PS 1.2, 100PS 1.4 and 126PS 1.6 all available with five-speed manual transmissions, with the option of four-speed automatic gearboxes on the 1.4 and 1.6 models.
Posting a low CO^®rating of just 124g/km and returning just 5.2 l/100km on the combined cycle, the all-new 1.2 all-alloy engine delivers an excellent combination of performance and economy.

Geared up to meet the high European demand for diesel power, i20 arrives with four Euro IV -compliant turbo diesel engines, fitted with CPF diesel particulate traps as standard for 1.6 (115ps & 128ps) diesel engine. The 1.4 comes in two specifications – 75PS and 90PS – while the flagship 1.6 is available in 115PS and 128PS trim. Economical and clean, the 115PS variant returns a class-leading CO^®figure of 115g/km and 4.3l/100km on the combined cycle. Both 1.4 models come with five-speed manual transmissions, while the flagship 1.6 is mated to a six-gear manual drivetrain.

Safety
Hyundai is synonymous with class-leading safety, and the new i20 debuts with exceptionally high levels of active and passive safety equipment. Its outright agility and responsiveness play a key role in keeping the i20 driver out of harm’s way, but should the worst occur those on board are protected by the extensive use of high-tensile steel in the Hyundai’s robust chassis, six airbags – front, side and curtain – fitted as standard, active headrests, front seatbelt pretensioners and latest generation ABS anti-lock brakes, ESP electronic stability control, EBD Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. This safety package is further enhanced by an advanced tyre pressure monitoring system, Isofix mounting points in the rear and seatbelt reminders for all five occupants, which means i20 arrives on the market as one of the safest cars in its class. Hyundai is confident of a full five-star Euro NCAP adult occupant protection and child protection crash test result for the i20.


Convenience
The i20’s five-seater interior may pamper, but it also majors on everyday practicalities with a 40:60 split flat-folding rear bench with a low lip for easy loading into the a roomy and regularly-shaped 295-litre rear loadbay, numerous intelligently positioned interior storage spaces including a large cooled passenger glovebox and two cupholders, and excellent all round visibility. These elements are complemented by the reach-and-rake adjustable steering wheel, complete with integrated audio controls and keyless central locking actuated by i20’s ergonomically designed folding keyfob.

Hyundai i20 images [click on the images for full size] :

Hyundai i20 blue

i20 blue

Following the unveiling earlier this year of the first of its i-blue range of advanced eco-dynamic vehicles, Hyundai Motor Europe has revealed the latest addition to the family: the i20 blue.

Based on the all-new i20 B-segment car, premiered at the 2008 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, this ‘blue’ variant incorporates a number of real-world modifications to further enhance the standard car’s already-impressive environmental credentials. These improvements are achieved without compromising performance, reliability or driver satisfaction, making the i20 blue a realistic solution for motorists.

The ‘blue’ package involves revisions to the i20’s power train efficiency, aerodynamics and chassis, to deliver a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption, positioning the i20 blue alongside the leading performers in the segment.

While the regular i20 achieves notably low figures for CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption – 115g/km and 4,3 litre/100km respectively – the i20 blue delivers even more impressive results: just 99 g/km and 3,75 litres/100km. In other words, the i20 blue offers a reduction of 15 per cent in CO₂ emissions and an improvement of 15 per cent in fuel efficiency, compared to the already-competitive i20.

Power train and performance
The i20 blue runs the extremely efficient 1.4 CRDi diesel engine, which produces 90PS and generates 220 Nm of torque. The power train is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox – instead of the car’s usual five-speed unit – in which the ratios have been modified in 3rd, 4th and 5th gear. Performance is very respectable in the i20 blue, with a top speed of 176 km/h and a 0-100km/h time of around 13 seconds.

Engine efficiency has been improved by minimizing driveline friction and by utilizing high-performance, low-friction engine oil. Also optimized for low emissions and high efficiency is the engine’s electronic software, which manages timing, injection pressure and idle speed.

Perhaps the most noticeable change from the driver’s perspective is the application of a Hyundai-specific ISG Start-Stop system. A Bosch product, customized for the i20 blue, this innovation cuts the engine when the car is stationary and the gearbox is disengaged, and restarts the engine when the clutch pedal is depressed. This activity is particularly effective at minimizing emissions in slow-moving, urban traffic.

Aerodynamics
Advances in aerodynamic drag reduction contribute to the vehicle’s remarkably low emissions and fuel consumption statistics. Ground clearance has been reduced by 15 millimeters compared to the regular i20, while full-length under floor covers enhance the car’s aerodynamic efficiency.

Exterior
Externally, the i20 blue closely resembles the ‘standard’ i20. Bespoke badging on the rear indicates that the car belongs to the ‘i-blue’ fold, and those with a keen eye will notice the application of the Michelin Energy low rolling resistance tires and the subtle changes made to the design of the grille and bodywork.

Hans Ullrich G^®bel, Manager Product Planning at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre, said:

“By drawing on currently available Hyundai technologies and design techniques, we are able to deliver to the market an uncompromised line-up of optimized, low-emissions vehicles, of which the i20 blue is the latest example. Its ultra-competitive environmental credentials demonstrate our commitment to conceiving eco-friendly models which can be mass-produced today, while we also focus on developing solutions for the medium and long term.

“Hyundai takes very seriously its environmental and social responsibilities, and is making efforts on many fronts to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, cut consumption and waste, and preserve resources. We recognize the importance of anticipating and responding to ever-increasing customer and legislative demand, and we plan for change in our global operations as well as in our vehicle line-up.”

Hyundai i20 blue images [click on the images for full size] :

Hyundai ix55

ix55

Introduction
Hyundai’s luxurious new seven-seater ix55 luxury utility vehicle makes its European debut at this year’s Paris Mondial de l'Automobile. The flagship ix55 sits ahead of the current Tucson and Santa Fe models and effectively completes the company’s dynamic and engaging SUV range. Based on the acclaimed Veracruz from the North American market, ix55 has undergone an extensive redevelopment program to prepare it for the European market. The single-model line-up is powered by a sparkling new V6 CRDi turbo diesel engine mated to a slick six-speed automatic transmission. Both the diesel power plant and the gearbox are firsts for Hyundai, and the refined and powerful V6 diesel power train has been tuned specifically for the European market.

Similarly, ix55’s dynamics have been extensively recalibrated for Europe, with updated suspension and a more direct and feel some steering set-up resulting in engaging and spirited ride and handling characteristics. Sleek and modern styling, meticulous attention to perceived and actual build quality and exceptionally high levels of standard luxury, convenience and safety equipment all underpin Hyundai’s commitment to meeting – and exceeding - the expectations of the demanding European market.

Style and Design
Hyundai’s ix55 follows in the bold design footsteps of the new i10, i20 and i30 with sleek and modern styling that’s distinctly European in look and feel. From its bold, optional Xenon headlamps and imposing grille, its muscular flanks, chunky 17” and 18“-inch alloy wheels and rakish roofline, to its wrap-around taillights and integrated exhaust pipes, ix55 cloaks its robust stance with sleek styling and balanced proportions. With its raised ride height and robust on-demand drive train that delivers all-wheel traction the instant it is needed, ix55 is perfectly equipped for towing horseboxes or boats, as well as tackling snowy or muddy passes and unsurfaced roads. This go-anywhere ability is complemented by a spacious, sumptuously appointed and intelligently configured cabin. With its flexible seven-seat layout, it offers real-world versatility for families on the move.

Interior
As befits its flagship status, the ix55’s cabin is the last word in luxury. Using high-grade woods and leathers, Hyundai’s designers have created a spacious cabin that is both versatile and elegant. Standard equipment levels are class-leading and include suede-covered seats – electrically adjustable for the driver – RDS radio and a high-specification Infinity MP3-compatible audio system, multi-function trip computer, rear privacy glass, blue backlit instrumentation, dual-zone climate control with separate controls for rear passengers, a leather-wrapped fully adjustable multifunction steering wheel and cruise control. There is an equally extensive list of options, available through four additional equipment packages.

Suspension, Ride Quality and NVH
The new ix55 – based on the award-winning Hyundai Veracruz sold in North America – has undergone an extensive dynamic overhaul to ready it for arrival on the European market. Its front strut and multi-link rear suspension is fitted with up rated springs and dampers for tauter and more athletic ride and handling characteristics, while the steering’s geometry and assistance have been retuned for a more positive feel. The ix55’s advanced 3.0-litre V6 CRDi turbo diesel is an all-new power train, and its latest-generation common-rail fuel injection system and variable geometry turbo technology deliver exceptionally quiet and smooth power delivery. The compacted graphite iron block is immensely stiff and significantly increases running refinement, as does the power train’s ISS (Instant Start System) and advanced EGR exhaust gas recirculation cooling system. The ISS technology ensures the CRDi’s glow plugs heat instantly for immediate ignition in even the coldest conditions, while the EGR system lowers the temperature of the exhaust gas to boost its thermal efficiency.

Power train
New ix55 marks the global debut of Hyundai’s all-new clean and muscular 3.0-litre V6 CRDi turbo diesel engine. With its aluminum head, compacted graphite iron block and hollow camshafts, this compact and lightweight Euro IV-compliant power plant was designed specifically for Europe and features a high-pressure, 1,600-bar common rail fuel injection system with sophisticated Piezo injectors to deliver 240PS at 3,800rpm and an impressive 451Nm of torque at 1,750-3,500rpm.

Breathing through an innovative variable intake system with swirl control technology, the 24-valve engine features an electronically controlled VGT variable geometry turbocharger to ensure instant throttle response throughout the rev range. A DPF particulate filter will be available from early next year.

Driving the iX55’s torque-on-demand all-wheel drive train through a smooth shifting six-speed automatic gearbox – a Hyundai first – with the option of Shiftronic manual gear selection, the ix55 posts an exceptional combination of performance and economy. It will accelerate to 100km/h in just 10.4 seconds and onto an electronically limited 200km/h top speed, while returning an excellent fuel economy figure of 9.4l/100km on the combined fuel cycle and emitting 249g/km CO₂.

Safety
The arrival of ix55 reinforces Hyundai’s class-leading safety levels. With its robust computer-optimized unitary passenger safety cell, sure-footed all-wheel drive, piercing Xenon headlamps, powerful brakes and high-riding visibility, ix55 offers an exceptionally high degree of on-the-go security for those on board. This is complemented by its extensive list of standard safety features six airbags with side curtain airbags for all three rows of passengers as well as the latest generation of ESP electronic stability programme, TCS traction control system and ABS with EBD electronic brake assist. Further safety elements fitted to ix55 include active front headrests, three-point seatbelts for all seven passengers with pre-tensioners and load limiters, seatbelt reminders for driver and passenger.

Convenience
The new ix55 has been developed from the ground up to deliver exceptional family-oriented versatility. Key to this is the flexibility in its full seven-seat layout. When not in use, the two rearmost seats fold flat into the cargo floor to create a huge 598 liters (VDA) of luggage space. When additional seating is needed, the rear chairs, complete with three-point seatbelts, can be quickly and easily erected. Hyundai’s engineers have installed an easy access system to the rear seats, too with easy walk-in access from both sides. And of course, both second and third rows offer split folding mechanisms, allowing ix55 drivers to easily juggle passenger and luggage space, with a vast 1,746 liters of space available with both rear seat rows folded flat. Factor in a myriad of storage facilities and intelligent features like numerous 12v outlets, memory function that save power mirrors, seat and steering wheel settings, a cooled centre console glove box, keyless proximity entry, rain-sensing wipers and parking sensors, and ix55 comes fully equipped to handle the rigours of modern life.

Hyundai ix55 images [click on the images for full size] :

Hyundai Santafe Blue Hybrid

Hyundai Santa Fe blue Hybrid

The Hyundai Santa Fe blue Hybrid will be an eco-friendly highlight of this year’s Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, demonstrating Hyundai’s technical capabilities and its commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions.

The vehicle maintains the overall design and dynamics of the standard Santa Fe, but is altogether a different car under the hood. Hyundai engineers developed a proprietary parallel hybrid drive system which mates the powerful but thrifty 2.4-litre Theta engine to a six-speed automatic transmission and a 30Kw electric motor for maximum fuel economy and substantially reduced CO₂ emissions. And it also can be used as a generator in order to save regenerative electric energy to the battery. This proprietary parallel hybrid drive architecture will serve as the foundation for all future hybrid drive vehicles to be developed by Hyundai.

Advanced Hybrid Technology

Developed at the Namyang R&D Centre in Korea, the petrol-electric hybrid technology featured in the Santa Fe blue Hybrid reduces CO₂ emissions to just 148 g/km (combined cycle) and delivers a fuel consumption figure of 6.2l/100km (combined cycle). With an estimated top speed of 170 km/h and a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 10.6 sec, performance has hardly been compromised..

To maximize fuel economy, all of the Theta’s major driveline and cooling system components have been optimized to reduce friction, while the crankcase has been filled with low friction oil engine control software automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt, cutting emissions to zero. When pressure is reapplied to the accelerator pedal, the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) automatically restarts the engine. The Theta’s engine control software governing injection pressure, engine cycle timing and exhaust retreatment rates has been revised to further reduce fuel consumption.

In addition, the latest electric motor-assisted steering system reduces power drain, and very low resistance tyres further optimize fuel economy.

Electric propulsion for the Santa Fe blue Hybrid is provided by a 30kW electric motor (205Nm) which is coupled directly to the six-speed automatic tranmssion. The top three gear ratios have been extended to ensure lower engine revolutions per minute (RPM) and further enhance fuel economy. Electrical power is stored in a 270V Lithium Polymer rechargeable battery (5.3Ah/270V) which has significant advantages over lithium-ion batteries, including higher energy density and lower manufacturing costs. Li-Poly is also more resistant to physical damage and can also take more charge-discharge cycles before storage capacity begins to degrade.

A proven track record in low-emissions vehicles

Hyundai plans to start retail sales of its first hybrid-electric vehicle in July 2009. To be sold initially in the Korean domestic market under the Avante badge, the Elantra LPI Hybrid will be the world’s first electric hybrid vehicle to be powered by liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and the first to adopt advanced Li-Poly batteries.

Hyundai’s developed its very first hybrid electric vehicle in 1995 when it unveiled the Future Green Vehicle at the Seoul Motor Show. In 1999 it displayed an Elantra Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) at the Seoul Motor Show and, in 2000, an Accent HEV – both of which featured ‘hard-type’ parallel electric drive systems and Integrated Starter Generator technology. However, these research development vehicles did not go into mass production.

In 2004, the company moved its HEV program into low-volume test production, delivering 50 examples of a gas-electric hybrid Getz (B-segment vehicles badged as Hyundai Click in the Korean domestic market) to Korean government agencies as part of a fleet demonstration project. These were ‘mild-type’ hybrid systems using 12kW motors and nickel metal hydride batteries. The hybrid technology development program continued to expand and, in 2005, Hyundai and its affiliate Kia Motors Corp. delivered 350 more units to the demonstration fleet, 730 more units in 2006 and 1,682 more units in 2007, including Accent HEVs.

Innovative Panoramic Roof

The Santa Fe blue Hybrid features an innovative three-piece panorama sunroof. The moveable glass top has UV filtration which reduces thermal loading without restricting light transparency. And to protect cabin occupants against solar radiation, an adjustable shade can be operated separately from the glass top. The modular system solution was developed Magna Car Top System.

Hyundai Santafe Blue Hybrid images [click on the images for full size] :

Hyundai Genesis

Genesis

Hyundai Motor Company is using the 2008 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris to give a European debut to its new flagship vehicle: the Genesis sports saloon. The pinnacle of Hyundai’s automotive expertise, the Genesis incorporates many technical ‘firsts’ for the brand and for the segment.

Premium quality
As the spearhead of Hyundai’s extensive model range, the Genesis has been engineered to deliver levels of perceived and actual quality in line with those of leading premium-brand vehicles. This commitment to quality, along with a focus on luxury and performance, position the Genesis among the most successful vehicles in the large saloon market, while generous standard specification and competitive pricing give the car an edge over rivals.

With technology rivaling that of more expensive models, the Genesis showcases features such as Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Lexicon^® audio systems
and electronic active front head restraints.

The car’s design is a progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel-drive sports saloon. To match its dynamic capabilities, the Genesis combines strong, sculpted forms which integrate precise details, natural materials and innovative lighting to provide a well-crafted, premium design aesthetic.

Power train and performance
Built on Hyundai’s all-new, performance-focused, rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Genesis offers three power plants: 3.3-litre and 3.8-litre V6 engines, and Hyundai’s newly-launched 4.6-litre V8 Tau engine. The highlight of this powerful trio, the Tau engine is an exceptionally efficient unit, which generates over 38075PS, and is mated to a ZF six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC^® manual control. Equipped with the V8 engine, the Genesis will reach 100 km/h from a standing start in under six seconds.

The Genesis also delivers spirited performance through its two V6 options, which produce over 270PS and 290PS respectively. To maximize the power spread, the engines utilize Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake and exhaust cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at low and high engine speeds. The better breathing results in superior acceleration and strong fuel efficiency figures. The V6 engines use an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency.

Both Genesis V6 engines use an Aisin six-speed SHIFTRONIC^® automatic transmission that features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy at high speeds. The transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide spread of ratios that ideally suit the characteristics of both engines, including a tall sixth gear for quiet, efficient cruising at higher speeds. Drivers access the SHIFTRONIC^® feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate.

Ride and handling
The Genesis boasts a near-ideal 52:48 front-to-rear weight distribution for exceptional handling and refined steering characteristics. The rear-wheel-drive layout allowed engineers to position the front wheels further forward resulting in confident handling and outstanding steering performance.

The car’s front five-link suspension features upper and lower arms linking the front wheels to the chassis, for improved responsiveness. The five-link independent rear suspension is equally sophisticated, enabling precise suspension geometry for a premium ride and engaging handling.

Comfort and refinement
Interior noise levels are reduced and ride and handling are improved thanks to a stiffer, lighter body structure. The use of high-tensile steel in critical areas provides the Genesis with high dynamic torsion rigidity and relatively low body weight.

Exceptional equipment levels
Offering a compelling combination of technology, premium appointments, and value, the Genesis has a soft-touch instrument panel with wood grain accents, Bluetooth^® hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod^® auxiliary inputs all as standard. A state-of-the-art navigation system with an eight-inch display screen is also available, as is a reversing camera that uses the screen to show the driver a clear view immediately behind the car.

A leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver in a luxurious environment, while a heated and cooled driver’s seat provides optimal driving comfort.

The Rolls Royce Phantom and Hyundai Genesis are the only cars to offer a Lexicon-branded, state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7^® technology. The Lexicon^® surround-sound audio system includes a 121-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing more than 500 watts.

Safety on the road
Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help prevent accidents and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. Standard equipment includes technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and electronic active head restraints. Eight airbags are fitted as standard: advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for occupants in both front and rear seats.

An electronic active head restraint system is also available, offering a significant improvement over mechanically-based active head restraint systems in preventing whiplash. Until recently, such electronic restraints were only found on certain models from premium-brand carmakers.

Remarkable braking performance is provided by the Genesis, with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) featuring in the car’s standard specification. The 320mm front discs have single-piston floating calipers and the rear brakes feature 315mm discs with single-pistons on V6 models. Twin-pistons and larger discs are standard on V8 models.

The Genesis features Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, bringing greater lighting power and reduced power consumption, while the Automatic Front Lighting System allows the headlamps to automatically swivel for better visibility when cornering.

Hyundai Genesis images [click on the images for full size] :

Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Genesis Coupe show car

The Genesis Coupe show car, on display at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, takes Hyundai to a new level of performance and styling.

A strict one-off, this show car is based on the all-new, rear-wheel drive 2+2 Genesis Coupe, which is scheduled to join the Hyundai lineup in North America early in 2009. The Genesis Coupe will be the most dynamic performance car yet from Hyundai and will bring stunning styling and advanced chassis technology.

The Genesis Coupe will become Hyundai’s second 300-plus horsepower, rear-wheel drive vehicle, following the unveiling earlier this year of the Genesis sports saloon.

The Genesis Coupe show car takes the strong styling cues of the production model – its ‘Z’ bodylines and powerful curves – and exaggerates them to spawn a unique, arresting vehicle. The bonnet, grille and other details will be different when the production car reaches showrooms next year, but the proportions and overall character of the show car reflect the reality of the production model.

‘Sonic Orange’ paint work gives the show car a dramatic appearance, which is enhanced by its bare carbonfibre bonnet and roof, and other customisations which help to reduce weight.

It is powered by an all-aluminium 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine, producing 303PS, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. It uses the same flexible rear-wheel-drive architecture originally developed for the Genesis saloon, with a MacPherson strut dual-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension setup. Large front and rear Brembo discs provide excellent braking performance, while grip comes from Dunlop 255/35 ZR front tyres and Dunlop 275/35 ZR rear tyres.

“The mission with the Genesis Coupe show car was to create a pure performance car with a design which would capture the imagination of hardcore automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Piaskowski, chief designer at the Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, California, USA, where the vehicle was designed. “With its aggressive look from just about any angle, I think we have been able to do that.”

The look of the Genesis Coupe show car was inspired in part by Le Mans race cars and in part by the drifting scene, and it makes a striking visual statement. The sills are pulled close to the ground, to deepen the bodysides, while the 20” lightweight alloy wheels and low-profile tyres sit close to the sleek bodywork. To complete the aggressive look, the depth between the bumpers and the glasshouse has been maximised, giving the show car a menacing appearance from every angle.

The powerful curves, surface detail and ‘Z’ bodyside lines come straight from the same underlying inspiration that guided two earlier, well-received Hyundai concepts: the HCD9 Talus and the HCD8 sports tourer. The undulating beltline borrowed from the Talus adds intrigue while enhancing outward visibility for both the driver and rear passengers. The HCD8 sports tourer’s sensual body forms influenced the overall design direction for the Genesis Coupe, including the assertive headlight and taillight designs.

The show car’s interior takes its lead from the cockpit of the production Genesis Coupe. An in-car information display screen features an outside temperature reading, audio system information and settings for the climate control. Analogue gauges include a large speedometer and tachometer positioned so the driver can immediately access critical driving information. The instrument cluster features Hyundai’s signature blue-gauge illumination.

Music lovers will welcome the inclusion of standard auxiliary input jacks to accommodate and charge audio devices, including MP3 players. Among the other refinements are an Infinity audio system, sports bucket seats and heated front seats. The sporting experience is completed by the presence of a push-button starter.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe images [click on the images for full size] :


[Source : HYUNDAI]