Hyundai has issued the following press release:
In a demonstration of its growing design and engineering capabilities, Hyundai Motor Co. unveiled three brand-new models at the 2007 Seoul Motor Show which opened at KINTEX today. Leading the trio was the Veloster, a sporty coupe which caters to the unique requirements of the Y-generation. Joining the sporty concept car were two production models: the TQ van, a thoroughly fresh interpretation of Hyundai’s hugely successful H-1 van and the FD estate wagon, styled at the company’s European Design Center in Russelsheim which marks Hyundai’s long-awaited return to this popular segment.
Veloster
Styled at Hyundai’s Design and Technical Center at Namyang, the Veloster (codenamed HND-3) coupe is the third in a series of daring concept cars to be developed by the central styling studio in Korea. The Veloster name, a compound of velocity and roadster evokes the sporty characteristics of a classic two-plus-two. A panoramic glass roof and other futuristic styling cues help project a high-tech image.
Designed to cater to the tastes of the Y-generation, Veloster combines simple, iconic design with good value and robust construction.
“With Veloster, we wanted to try something really different. We’re keenly aware that we need radically new products for the Y-generation, the first-time twenties something buyer,” said Oh Suk-Geun, Hyundai’s vice president of design. “This is really a bold new direction,” he added. — Mitsubishi's trio of concept vehicles.
All-New H-1 Van
With its sophisticated lines, the all-new H-1 (project codename TQ) improves on its predecessor in every measurable respect. More spacious, more comfortable and more convenient, the new H-1 reinvigorates Hyundai competitiveness in this hotly contested segment.
The new H-1 comes in passenger van and commercial van versions. The people mover is available in a variety of seating layouts: eight, nine, 11 or 12 passenger while the commercial van comes in two, three, five and six seater versions for a a high degree of versatility.
Engine
For all markets outside of Korea and the EU, power for the new H-1 is provided by a 2.5-liter turbocharged intercooled engine (4D56). Euro-III emissions-compliant, the 4D56 delivers 100ps of horsepower and 23kg m of torque whilst delivering 9.4km per litre of fuel. It’s mated to a five-speed manual gearbox or the optional four-speed automatic.
For the EU and Korean markets, the new H-1 gets the A 2.5 CRDi, a Euro-IV compliant engine which with the assistance of a Variable Geometry Turbocharger delivers 170ps and 40kg m of torque. The base gearbox is a five-speed manual but an automatic is available as an option, in either four- or five-speed versions, depending on local market requirements. — Frankfurt Motor Show presentations.
For markets requiring gasoline propulsion, the 2.4-liter Theta engine is a new offering to the range. Delivering 170ps and 22.8kg m of torque, the Theta can propel the new H-1 to a maximum speed of 185km/h and has a fuel economy rating of 7.1km per litre.
Key new exterior features include the addition of dual sliding side doors, twin swing rear doors (commercial van only), enlarged wheels and tires (205/70R15 -> 215/70R16), back-up warning system (passenger van only) and a sliding side window (wagon only).
New touches to the interior include the mounting of the transmission gear shift lever to the center fascia for obstructionless movement between the driver seat and front passenger seat and the addition of an overhead storage console. The new H-1 is also fitted with an electro-chromic rear view mirror and new roof-mounted air vents for improved cooling and heating throughout the cabin.
The new H-1 gets 16-inch front disc brakes providing better braking power than the H-1’s 15-inch discs. And for improved handling, it’s fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension. — Geneva International Motor Show.
Production of the new H-1 diesel edition starts in August 2007 while the petrol version won’t be available until after November 2007.
FD Estate Wagon
Following the unveiling last month of the i30 5-door hatchback at the Geneva Auto Show, Hyundai is proud to introduce an extension to the i30 family, the FD estate wagon which marks Hyundai’s long-awaited return to this popular and hotly contested segment in Europe. Like its 5-door hatchback sibling, the FD Estate Wagon was styled at the European Design Center in Russelsheim ensuring that is perfectly in tune with continental tastes.
Thoughtful design touches include projection headlamps, a USB port for connecting portable music players, a smart folding key system for convenient access to the vehicle, a built-in roof rack for maximum cargo-carrying utility and repeater lamps built into the side view mirrors housings.
