Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Hyundai cars at the 2010 Paris Auto Show

Hyundai Motor Company, the fastest growing automaker in the world, has used the 2010 Paris Auto Show to showcase some new production models, which are slated to go on sale in Europe within a month or two. The carmaker also presented a hybrid ix35 concept car, which previews Hyundai's upcoming mild-hybrid-car powertrain technology.

Making its global public premiere in Paris was the 2011 Hyundai i10 mini-car, which is built at Hyundai's manufacturing plant in Europe. The entry-level i10 received a mid-cycle facelift for the 2011 model year and some powertrain upgrades.

The new i10 features updated front fascia, slightly revised taillamps and new entry-level 1.0L four-cylinde engine. The existing 1.2L Kappa engine has been updated as well and now boasts 2 more horsepower and more torque. It is also quieter and more eco-friendly, says Hyundai.

Another new production model made its official unveiling at the 2010 Paris Auto Show. The all-new ix20 mini-MPV, which is based on Kia Venga MPV will go on sale by the end of the year. The 2011 ix20 will be available with a wide range of four-cylinder diesel and gasoline engines and will be marketed exclusively in Europe.


Put on display alongside new i10 facelift and ix20 MPV were Hyundai Genesis sedan and Genesis Coupe RWD. Both models are, reportedly, coming to Europe. Sales are scheduled to commence in the first half of 2011. While the 2011 Genesis Coupe will only be available with Hyundai's 3.8V6 engine in Europe, Genesis sedan is also rumored to get a 3.0L diesel engine, which can also be found in the ix55 crossover - known as Hyundai Veracruz in the U.S. market.

The afore-mentioned Hyundai ix35 mild hybrid previews the automaker's vision of affordable hybrid crossover vehicle, which is, at the same time, also eco-friendly. Described as a "mild hybrid crossover vehicle", the ix35 utilizes Hyundai's new 1.7L U2 diesel engine, "Idle Stop & Go" technology and a 5kw electric motor.

In addition, Hyundai also showcased its range of Blue models, which are already on sale in some European countries.

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