Following the i20 hatchback, which has been receiving solid reviews from critics, Hyundai has unveiled a quartet of new models which it hopes will allow it to maintain its climb up the European sales ranks.
Heading up the list is Hyundai's first ever hot hatch, the i30 Turbo, which will be available in both three- and five-door form. Based on the mechanical package of the related Ka Cee'd GT, the i30 Turbo has a 1.6-litre petrol turbo engine developing 186hp, and boasts a relatively sedate 0-100kmh time of eight seconds. Hyundai's Andreas Brozat, head of brand experience, said the car would not be a head-on rival for the likes of the VW Golf GTI or Leon Cupra, but instead a fast but refined 'warm' hatch, with the emphasis on effortless performance and comfort.
Don’t interpret that as Hyundai backing off from the competition though; a hotter, harder-edged series of high-performance models, badged under the N-Sport brand, will be coming soon.
The rest of the i30 range also gets a significant update, starting with a striking new 3D grille and new headlights. The basic 1.4-litre 100hp naturally aspirated petrol model is now lighter and more efficient than before and now has Band B1 emissions of 129g/km. The 1.6-litre diesel now comes in two power outputs – 110hp and 136hp – and has emissions as low as 94g/km, which Hyundai claims is the best CO2-to-performance ratio in the class.
The i30 will also get Hyundai’s new seven-speed twin-clutch 7DCT gearbox, which replaces the old, conventional six-speed torque-converter auto ‘box’. Hyundai claims it offers superior acceleration to a manual, but also better economy.
The debut car for that gearbox though is the updated i40, which also gains a new, jutting grille and piercing lights. Aside from the new gearbox, it also gets a power boost on the top-spec 1.7 CRDI diesel engine, from 136hp to 141hp, and some new technological enhancements.
Those include stop-start, active radiator flaps to improve aerodynamic performance, an electronic limited slip differential called Advanced Traction Cornering Control (ATCC), and a new Drive Mode system which alters not just the steering weight and feel but also the throttle, gearbox and, on the Tourer, the active rear suspension dampers.
There will also be Lane Keeping Assist, a speed limit recognition camera, active high-beam lights and an updated central touchscreen.
The final new car introduced at Hyundai’s Product Momentum event was the i20 Coupe. Called a coupe, but really a three-door version of the recently introduced i20 hatchback, it gets slightly tweaked styling, including a more aggressive-looking front end and more distinctive interior options. Engines remain the same and Hyundai reckons it hasn’t compromised cabin or boot space in favour of styling.
