Drawing the crowds at this year’s Geneva Motor Show were Hyundai’s latest inspirational designs and innovative technologies. For the first time, the all-new ix-onic concept car was revealed to the public, introducing an all-new look for Hyundai’s future SUV line-up. Sharing the limelight was the fuel-saving i30 Blue with ISG stop-start technology, and the compact i20, now available in three-door guise.
Ix-onic – the shape of the future for Hyundai SUVs
Giving a clear indication of the look for the successor of the popular Tucson, ix-onic is a stunning piece of automotive architecture. Applying Hyundai’s ‘dynamic sculpture’ design language, the European design team created a sculpted and muscular body. The stunning shape is enhanced by special ‘ice blue’ paint, combined with Hyundai’s trademark hexagonal grill and swept-back headlamps.
The interior is just as stylish and luxurious, with shapely cream leather seats, polished alloy accents and carpets containing cashmere wool.
Depicted as a car of contrast, inspiration for the distinct design came from urban environments, blended with natural surroundings. Hyundai describes ix-onic as an ‘urban nomad’, rendering each journey an adventure. A versatile car, the tough and compact design is ideal for the city, while the comfortable and spacious interior also makes it suitable for longer journeys.
To demonstrate the direction of the Hyundai SUV range, ix-onic features an advanced powertrain. The 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged engine is fitted with ISG (idle, stop and go), and a double clutch six-speed transmission.
i30 Blue launches Hyundai’s new eco-programme
Hyundai will start production this quarter of the super-efficient i30 Blue at its new European facility in Nošovice, Czech Republic. Fitted with ISG stop-start, the i30 Blue significantly reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in city driving.
In stationary traffic, the innovative ISG system will automatically switch the engine off, then instantly restart without delay when required. Equipped with a 1.6-litre engine, i30 Blue boasts a seven percent reduction in fuel consumption on the combined cycle, and a 10g/km drop in CO2 (down to 142g/km) compared to the regular model – making significant savings for business and private motorists.
Since its launch in 2007, the i30 has become a best-seller for Hyundai, and the introduction of i30 Blue brings a new dimension to the successful range. The new ‘Blue’ edition is the first model to be launched under Hyundai’s Blue Drive initiative, which will bring a number of eco-friendly technologies to market in the coming years.
Three-door debutant extends i20’s appeal
At the start of the year, Hyundai took the compact car market by storm, with the introduction of the stylish i20. The three-door variant brings further choice to one of the biggest growing automotive segments in Europe, and puts Hyundai in a strong position to win fleet and retail sales.
The three and five-door versions of i20 share the same platform and spacious interior, easily accommodating adult passengers in the front and rear seats. The front and rear exterior design is similar, but the three-door gains larger doors and kick-up rear windows which give it a sporty profile.
Packed to the brim with standard equipment and safety features, this sleek little car is expected to appeal to young professionals, looking for style, quality and affordable motoring. Climate control, iPod connectivity, multi-function steering wheel, keyless entry and electric windows and door mirrors demonstrate the i20’s excellent value.
With a range of fuel-efficient petrol and diesel engines, the i20 matches all motoring requirements. Among the line-up is the 1.2-litre, 78PS ‘Kappa’ petrol engine, which uses just 5.2l/100km on the combined cycle, and has a low CO2 rating of 124g/km. The CRDi diesels are even more frugal, and provide a captivating driving experience.