KUCHING: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn Bhd (Hyundai) recently revealed the first pictures of the new i40, ahead of its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show which will be set for launch in Europe during the second quarter of this year.
SLEEK DESIGN: Two sets of photo show the front (above) and rear (below) views of the new Hyundai i40.
According to a press statement, the debut of i40 came along with the launch of its new brand slogan, ‘New Thinking. New Possibilities.’
The i40 would reflect the spirit of change at Hyundai and represent the company’s bold new concept of ‘modern premium’, stressing that premium quality and characteristics should be accessible to everyone.
“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 after-sales care, the i40 sets itself apart from its competitors,” said senior vice president and chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor Europe, Allan Rushforth.
The i40 would be Hyundai’s first D-segment vehicle to be developed specifically for the European market, with a package of powertrains, equipment and technology tailored for European tastes.
It would be shown in Geneva in wagon form, and this would be the first i40 body-style to be introduced to Europe, with a sedan to be followed later this year.
Designed and engineered at Hyundai’s research and development headquarters in Russelsheim, Germany, the i40 model maintained its signature features such as the hexagonal grille.
The grille was flanked by two jewel-like headlamps, for a contemporary, confident look that was accentuated by the lines that connected the front and rear of the vehicle.
In line with Hyundai’s commitment to make premium products and features available to everyone, the i40 would have a class-leading level of standard equipment.
Among the specification were three segment ‘firsts’ such as heated and reclining front and rear seats; a heated steering wheel and an active de-mist system that would automatically detect and clear mist on the windscreen.
The ‘modern premium’ concept was also evident in the efficient powertrain choices available to i40 buyers.
Running on Hyundai’s 1.7-litre diesel engine, code-named ‘UII’, the i40 would emit just 113 grammes per kilometre (g/km) of CO2 emissions which showed the company’s effort in eco-technology leadership.
Hyundai’s customer care package ‘Five Year Triple Care’ would come as a standard on the model. The package would offer a five-year unlimited-mileage warranty, five years’ roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks