One of the biggest events at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show was perhaps the reveal of the new Hyundai i30. Aimed squarely at market-favourites such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, Hyundai claims that the latest iteration of this hatchback features enhanced design, quality, performance and efficiency.
Details on engine options were scarce when we brought you news on the new i30 last week, but now Hyundai has revealed that, internationally, there will be a choice of four engines with six power outputs – three petrol and three diesel variants. Power outputs range between 65 and 100 kW.
Hyundai believes that its 1,6-litre variable geometry turbodiesel will be the most popular engine in the range with just over 94 kW available at 4 000 r/min. The 1,6-litre GDI (gasoline direct injection) petrol engine delivers just short of 100 kW and 164 N.m of torque. There will be a choice of manual or automatic six-speed transmissions.
The styling of the new i30 was a big talking point at the show. Words like “pretty”, “stunning”, “easy on the eye” were all thrown about on the Hyundai stand, and I can see why.
It features the latest Hyundai identity with its hexagonal grille, swept-back lines that carry your eye along the side and all the way to the rear where you can see what looks like Alfa-inspired tail lamps.
The new Hyundai i30 will be launched next year, and is expected to reach South Africa towards the end of 2012.