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Headed for SA: Hyundai's next-gen i30

Cape Town - Hyundai has taken the wraps off a refined new-generation i30 with improved dynamics, fresh styling and a new range of engines.

The automaker's new flagship hatchback will make its debut at the 2016 Paris auto show later in September and should reach South African shores during the second half of 2017.

N brand

The new-generation i30 family will also feature the first high-performance model under Hyundai Motor’s N brand set to head into production in 2017. This high-performance model is likely to derive its power from a high-output 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

Peter Schreyer, president and chief design officer at Hyundai, said: “Our designers are driven by passion and enthusiasm bringing pride and joy to Hyundai owners. You see and feel this new spirit in the New Generation i30 - it is a proud statement. With the New Generation i30 we are introducing our newly developed front grille: we call it the Cascading Grille. It will become the new identity of Hyundai.”

A photo posted by Wheels24 (@wheels24_sa) on

Jochen Sengpiehl, marketing vice-president at Hyundai Europe, says the automaker has “listened closely to customer needs, redefining our offer to create a car for everyone. The new-generation i30 is our DNA car in Europe: accessible, appealing in design with innovative technology and great to drive.”

Hyundai claims the new i30 weaves and matches technology with connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and wireless charging to enhance smartphone operation and functionality while driving. Some of the latest active safety features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Smart Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Driver Attention Alert and Blind Spot Detection increase passenger comfort even more.

The highly rigid and light body with 53% Advanced High Strength Steel delivers the base for good ride and handling characteristics and, combined with 10% more direct steering and the newly developed chassis, the driver can enjoy the i30’s dynamic driving abilities without compromising high comfort levels, says the automaker.

New range of engines

The new i30 is powered by a range of small-displacement turbocharged petrol and diesel engines delivering a dynamic and efficient driving experience.

There are three petrol engines and one diesel engine. They are the new 1.4 T-GDI turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine; the 1.0 T-GDI turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine; or the 1.4 MPI 4-cylinder petrol engine, as well as one diesel engine: the 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, available with three power outputs. Hyundai says customers’ engine choice will depend on the range offered in a specific country and where the i30 is imported from.

CO2 emissions start from as low as 89g/km (target value) for the 3-cylinder 1.0 T-GDI engine.

Mated to the engines is either a six-speed manual transmission or Hyundai’s efficient and direct-responding seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT).

A family of cars

The new-generation i30, designed at Hyundai Motor Europe’s Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, is more than just one model. Hyundai claims it will become a family of unique products united by a timeless and balanced design coherent for every body type. The family offers the right car for everyone - for the ones looking for elegance, or the ones looking for exhilaration.

The third generation i30 will be produced in the Czech Republic in Europa, as well as in South Korea, and aims to continue the success of the two previous generations of i30 that have sold more than 800 000 cars in Europe since 2008.

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