Category: Hyundai

Here are some spyshots of the next Hyundai coupe out on public roads. Though its design is well known despite the body covers, the details remain secret and there are many rumours circulating about them.

According to some rumours, Hyundai may go upmarket with this new generation. The unveiling of the Genesis concept car at the New York auto show was a real surprise for observers. More than a concept car, the saloon is ready to be produced and Hyundai declared that it might extract a coupe from the saloon.

Since then, the coupe has been reported to be equipped with V6 and V8 engines. It may be powered by the V6 3.8 litre already available in the Grandeur executive saloon. With the coupe it is said that Hyundai will add a turbocharger. The top of the range will probably get a V8 engine still under development. The new V8, dubbed Lambda, produces over 300 bhp.

According to some insiders, the new Hyundai coupe will be revealed in March 2008 in South Korea.

Source: Autoblog

It’s a big step for the Hybrid technology. Hyunday unveiled last week at the Guangzhou Motor Show a hybrid version of its Accent, The vehicle is equipped with a 1.4L CVVT engine producing 90 hp and a 16-hp electric motor. According to the Korean manufacturer that should net the car a 44 percent gain in fuel economy.

Beyond these figures which must be confirmed by independent tests, it’s the move taken by Hyundai. Whereas Toyota began to sell its hybrid technology integrated in a dedicated vehicle, the Prius and after a range of luxury limousines and SUV, Hyundai expects to sell its first hybrid under its best seller, the Accent. Thus, the 500,000 figures reached in 7 years could take less for Hyundai, especially if Hyundai sells the Accent in the US as it’s expected.

It’s all the more dangerous for the European manufacturers since there is no real plan for hybrid technologies. A Hyundai Accent sold in Europe could get some rebates from new anti-pollution laws and be sold cheaper than its European competitors.

Replacing the XG, here is the Grandeur, the top of the range Hyundai. Yes, this 489cm-long sedan aims at challenging the Mercedes E-class, BMW 5-series, Audi A6 and Volvo S80. Of course, at first sight, no one would give it a chance: it’s definitely not a turn-head. But then, this car far from being uninteresting, with its spacious and pleasant cockpit, its good overall quality and its discretion. Hyundai’s choice in terms of styling is radically different from that operated by Kia with the gaudy Opirus.

Only 2 engines are available : a 3.3 petrol V6 developing 233bhp and a 2.2 diesel developing 145bhp, which is not enough to make it a dangerous challenger.

Both are coupled with an automatic 5-speed gearbox. As for the suspension, we notice two wishbones at the front and a multilink at the rear. ESP as well as 17’ alloys mounted on 235/55 tyres are standard.

Inside, standard equipment includes a dual zone air-conditioning, a leather upholstery, an Infinty-made stereo and an electrically operated tilt and telescopic steering column.

If it respects Hyundai’s tradition of excellent value for money, the Grandeur might well hope to become more than a confidential executive sedan. If only its diesel had more power…