Official 'FD' Thread - Hyundai i30

[SuperGLS]

The 'FD' is set to debut at the Geneva show. I've read that the press release will be a few days before the show on the 6th. From TCC:

The Korean brand is also premiering its new C-segment hatchback, codenamed FD. It's the firm's first ever vehicle designed specifically for Europe, and is based on the Arnejs concept from last September's Paris exhibition. The production vehicle will go on sale later this year.

With the launch of FD, Hyundai will simultaneously introduce a new alpha-numerical naming strategy for all its future products.

Everything seems to indicate that this 'FD' will make it to North America at some point. I hope so. Some have suggested that it will be made in Korea at first for export to Europe and once the Czech plant opens the Korean FD's will begin to export to our market. Interesting and makes sense.

To be honest though, I'm worried about the "alpha-numerical naming strategy." I like cars that have names and have never really understood the boring E500/GS430/X3/G35 names. I mean, I understand what the letters and numbers signify, but that's pretty uncreative. I like stupid stuff like Elantra, Camry, Passat, etc. Maybe it's me...?

Thoughts?

[hyunelan2]

The reason they use names like 325i, C320, G35, RDX, etc. is so you focus on the brand name of the car. The only 'name' in Acura RL is "Acura". All the upscale brands do this to promote their brand, above the specific vehicle.

[Estopatitiana]

i have to agree with super, whatever reason they use it for, its dumb and i dont know any bmw's and mercedes or lexus because of all the gibberish names, the only ones i remember are the 2 infinities, fx45 and g35 coupe

[hyunelan2]

It makes the cars more obscure, and focuses on the brand. If I told my mother (or any other non-car person), I bought an "Accord" and I love it, she would know that the Accord specifically is a good car. They wouldn't care about Civics, Elements, or Insights. Now if I told her, I bought a G35, first she'd say, "is that a Pontiac?" -haha. But when I said I bought an Infinity *letters & numbers* she/that-person would then look into Infinities if they were curious, not just the G35. They actually want you to forget the specific model, and just remember the presige brand.

The 'lower' brands are picking this strategy up not too. Look at Pontiac - G5, G6, G8

[ghrpdx]

It's interesting that when Datsun became Nissan, they did just the opposite. Most of the numeric designations were swapped for names.

210 became the Sentra.
310 became the Pulsar.
510 became the Stanza (then Altima).
810 became the Maxima.

I like car names, not numbers. It's getting to the point where it's confusing. Cadillac has to be the worst ... CTS, DTS, SRX, STS, and XLR. Now Lincoln is in the game with the MKZ and MKX.

[SuperGLS]

I guess I can see where you are coming from Mike. Let's see what Hyundai comes up with. Of course, because the FD is being released as a European car for right now maybe they are switching the naming system over there only? Just a thought.

But when I said I bought an Infinity *letters & numbers* she/that-person would then look into Infinities if they were curious, not just the G35.

I have to point out you spelling Infiniti wrong. Sorry.

[Malfunctionbob]

We just gave them designations and a slap on the *** before we turned them over through lend-lease.. I think the Sherman was the first one we actually named.. or maybe the Pershing.. This tradition still goes on today with the Abrams and Bradley being broken by the Stryker.. unless there's a General Stryker somewhere... there probably is.. but it still has a name dagnabit.. not just a designation.

In short..I would much rather drive an Elantra than an XD2.

[hyunelan2]

I have to point out you spelling Infiniti wrong. Sorry.


Doh. I blame firefox spellcheck for that. It knows Infinity, but not Infiniti. Still, I should have caught that one.

[Malfunctionbob]

It's interesting that when Datsun became Nissan, they did just the opposite. Most of the numeric designations were swapped for names.

210 became the Sentra.
310 became the Pulsar.
510 became the Stanza (then Altima).
810 became the Maxima.

I like car names, not numbers. It's getting to the point where it's confusing. Cadillac has to be the worst ... CTS, DTS, SRX, STS, and XLR. Now Lincoln is in the game with the MKZ and MKX.

For a lot of Cadillac's names it's easy if you remember the old names so DTS is DeVille Touring Suspension I think..

and the MKZ and MKX I think are the Mk10 and the Mk .. I dunno why they went from the MkVIII to this garbage but I can only imagine some 20-something product manager think about how cool something called EM-KAY-ZEE could be...

In short (this shall be my new trademark).. screw those jerks.

[SuperGLS]

New info and pics.

(March 6, Seoul, Korea) At the 2007 Geneva Auto Show today, Hyundai introduces a new car, the i30 and a new naming philosophy with model lines bearing the i prefix. The i stands for inspiration, a key force driving all vehicle development at Hyundai. But i also stands for intelligence and integrity, and that is what customers have come to expect from Hyundai. In all these forms i lies at the core of any Hyundai brand promise. From this premise the “i” badge is a natural development.

With the i30 Hyundai introduces a new model range firmly positioned in the mainstream C segment. Styled in the company's Russelsheim Design and Technical Center for those who want stylish practicality with a distinctive dash of sporting flair, the i30 is aimed at the discerning European who wants something different, but with proven integrity and quality. Initially available as a 5-door hatchback and an estate car, the i30 opens a new chapter for Hyundai in Europe.

Creative Flair – the exterior

Flowing curves, emphasised by strong character lines highlight the broad stance and long wheelbase of the i30. The clearly defined unbroken waistline unifies the classic proportions. The effect is conservative, yet exiting, giving a dynamic impression of performance and capability.

The pronounced dual intake frontal styling seems to mould effortlessly into the bonnet and A pillar lines. The upsweep of the rear window lines mirrors the lower character line. The harmonic effect creates a distinct and dynamic posture.

The sculpted rear appearance is achieved by a combination of qualified curves that extend the waistline and reflect the curvaceous front and side styling. Every element of the design works in harmony. The seemingly effortless interaction of front and rear light clusters, unobtrusive roof spoiler and superb front proportions, all contribute a powerful sense of proportion and purpose.

Dynamic refinement – the interior

The long wheelbase and generous width of the i30, combined with Hyundai’s acknowledged skill in interior space packaging have produced an interior fully focused upon class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality.

Dynamic refinement has been applied to every aspect, including air management, the light airy ambience, seating comfort and intuitive ergonomics.

The i30 was conceived from the beginning as a driver’s car. The clarity of the instruments, tilt and telescope steering wheel, supportive bucket seats and optimal gearshift positioning are all evidence of this. For extra clarity, LCD technology has been used for the central info display and the instrument panel mounted display and warning lights. Generous directional air vents ensure optimum interior air management. Two-tone interior trim, with metallic soft paint treatment, together with special attention to the upholstery fabrics and materials has produced a vitalising and fresh, highly “European” interior environment.

Blue instrument lighting

Hyundai has adopted LED based blue instrument and minor control lighting throughout their upper market ranges. The advantages are less eyestrain and fatigue under all ambient light conditions, helping to maintain peak driver alertness and vision.

For years now Hyundai have been proving that a car does not have to be large to feel spacious or carry a premium price to offer an intelligent interior. The i30 is just the latest expression of this. Intuitive ergonomics are evident in all of the minor controls. The positive feel of the steering wheel audio/communication switches and column stalks, together with the easy to hand positioning of heating, air conditioning and power windows and mirrors amply demonstrate this. The easy access to sunglasses holders, map pockets and other stowage and storage areas are another Hyundai strength that characterises the i30. Even the positioning and precise feel of the automatic gearshift has been further optimised. All contribute to the reality of a driver’s car.

Seating to inspire superlatives

A car that offers above average sporting appeal must also provide the supportive seating to enjoy it. The front seats and contoured rear seats of the i30 provide long distance comfort and support. Attention has been paid not only to the form, with orthopaedic design input, but also to the stitching and materials used. The result is seating comfort designed to meet and match the very best European ideals.

The ideal integrated interior

The i30’s dimensions at 4,245 mm long, 1,765 mm wide and 1,480 mm high, fit i30 totally to current C-segment expectations. In addition the long wheelbase of 2,650 mm offers superior inside spaciousness, which has received the full force of Hyundai intelligent interior design. The extra space allowed the designers to optimise every aspect it. The result is increased freedom of movement, optimal seat and instrument positioning and increased comfort. Both front and rear legroom and headroom are well above the accepted average.

Rear space with the capacity to convince

The i30 matches above average occupant space with generous, easy access luggage capacity. A useful and fully useable 820mm length 1020mm width and 558mm height in the luggage area gives an impressive 340litres load volume with the rear seats upright. With the rear seats folded flat the load space length and load volume are increased.

Also, as the i30 is a Hyundai, utility and convenience have not been overlooked. As well as the standard luggage cover, a restraining net is optional. Hyundai have always been recognised for their generosity of equipment at all trim levels, and the i30 builds upon that tradition. The range of standard equipment combined with a full selection of reasonable cost extras, allows i30 customers to fully tailor their car to their wishes.

Engines and transmissions

A choice of three petrol, combined with manual or automatic transmission and three diesel power options means the i30 can meet virtually every driving, or geographic powertrain preference. All petrol engines have 16v dohc CVVT and variable inlet technology. All diesel engines can be best described as state-of-the-art and are mated to a manual gearbox.

The i30 offers a wide range of engines. At the entry-level, Hyundai’s new 108PS 1.4l petrol engine offers a sparkling combination of fuel economy and performance with 13.5kg.m torque. A new1.6 engine gives 121PS and 15.4kg.m torque, while the range topping 2.0 offers 140hp with 18.8kg.m torque.

In terms of diesel a new 1.6 CRDi is available in 90PS and 115PS versions, both with 26kg.m torque. At the top end, the 2.0 CRDi puts out an exhilarating140PS with 31kg.m torque. All feature variable geometry turbo charging (VGT), low friction balance shaft technology and high-pressure common rail diesel injection for minimised engine originated NVH.

Transmitting the power

Regardless of advances in automatic technology, manual transmission remains the favourite for European drivers. The 5-speed all-synchro transmission of the i30 has been specifically engineered to match the sporting nature of the car with short throw and really precise shifts.

Suspension and braking match the performance

In any of the five available launch versions the Hyundai i30 offers a dynamic, yet cultivated driving experience. Fitted with MacPherson strut front suspensions and multi-link rear suspension has been adopted to perfectly complement the high design rigidity. Ventilated 10 inch discs front and solid 9 inch rear* with 4-channel ABS and optional ESP* mean the dynamic appearance is matched to real on-road handling control. As regards performance choice, a range of 15, 16 and 17inch alloy wheels, with low and ultra-low profile tyres add visual impact to the sporting dynamics. The result is a car that simply demands to be driven.

Uncompromising safety

Like every other Hyundai, the i30 was safe even before it reached prototype stage. Advanced design systems and sophisticated computer simulation, combined with intensive component testing meant that by the time the real tests

came only conceptual fine-tuning was required. That is typical of the Hyundai approach to safety. It begins on the drawing board, is thoroughly tested by prototype stage, and fulfils every expectation on the road.

Passive safety

The i30 is fully equipped to protect. In terms of passive safety it features dual front, side, and curtain airbags, active headrests, seatbelt pretensioning and seatbelt reminders. Also, as with every Hyundai vehicle, the passive safety features are fully grounded in a state-of-the-art safety structure. This includes deformable zones, occupant protection cell and 3-way load distribution technology. Further rigidity has been achieved with reinforced A-pillars, strengthened bulkhead, front and side members, toughened B and C pillars and full-length side impact protection.

Peace of mind features

Customer expectations in the C category have risen constantly over the past decade. The i30 is equipped to meet them. Active front headrests are optional. The interior rear view mirror is electro chromatic self-dipping (optional) to reduce night driving eyestrain. The heated power exterior mirrors fold electrically to prevent breakage in tight situations. Rear mounted parking sensors that give and audible warning are also optional. That all adds up to extra peace of mind. ABS/ESP 4-channel ABS and deselectable ESP (optional) are standard on the i30 for advanced active safety.

[SuperGLS]

Welcome to Hyundai’s i world

While in the past, names of Hyundai vehicles had been chosen to express the values inherent in or associated with individual Hyundai models, Hyundai is now taking a more holistic approach to its nomenclature. Future vehicle names will display a clearer technology-orientation and have a common core that is easy to understand for everyone.

Hyundai chose an alpha-numerical code that could establish a link between technology and the Hyundai brand’s core values. With the “i”, Hyundai chose the letter that could carry both messages. The letter “i” has a long tradition as an icon for technology products. Furthermore, as a frequently used icon, the “i” is already established across Europe.

In addition, the “i” is also part of Hyundai’s brand promise. In the 1990s, Hyundai changed its entire corporate focus, moving away from its original business philosophy of producing “good-bargain” vehicles, to acquire a more sophisticated profile. Hyundai wanted to become more inspiring. Today, the will to “inspire” forms one of the cornerstones of the Hyundai brand. The letter “i” recognizes this fact and transports it to consumers.

The i30 is the first Hyundai to carry the “i” in its name. The number 30 is the numerical equivalent of the letter assigned to the i30’s segment, the European C segment.

i + numerical equivalent of segment letter:

i10 = A segment

i20 = B segment

i30 = C segment

i40 = D segment

i50 = E segment

For future derivatives or special segment models, an additional letter will be added to the i:

i30 CW = C segment cross-wagon

The new nomenclature will be applied only to future vehicles that are sold in Europe. It will not immediately replace the names of current models.

We were right about the Europe only naming. I'm glad it won't affect us.

http://bp1.blogger.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/Re3Y6Dw-0_I/AAAAAAAAFSU/QUf-qajyj6g/s1600-h/Carscoop_i30_5.jpg

http://bp3.blogger.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/Re3Xvjw-05I/AAAAAAAAFRk/rEc5-oKdSgk/s1600/Carscoop_i30_34.jpg

http://bp3.blogger.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/Re3Y5jw-08I/AAAAAAAAFR8/bMOdUfHpLyQ/s1600/Carscoop_i30_2.jpg

http://bp3.blogger.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/Re3W4jw-00I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/ApRKrlLmzuQ/s1600/Carscoop_i30_29.jpg

http://bp2.blogger.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/Re3TgTw-0gI/AAAAAAAAFOc/l__z9Ie9_S8/s1600/Carscoop_i30_14.jpg

All info and pics courtesy of Carscoop. More pics here:

http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2007/03/geneva-hyundai-i30-video-press-pack.html

Enjoy.

[OPZ]

Wow those seats look sexy.

And I would actually want to buy that and drive it.

And I usually NEVER say that about hatches...

[NY2002ElantraGT]

pics? so far nothings worked!

[SuperGLS]

All the pics work for me. Click on the link Carscoop link. There is a bunch of pics.

[Doohickie]

Yeah, I was gonna pipe in about the alpha-numeric names being for Euro only market. I talked to someone from HMA recently and he said Hyundai is soliciting name suggestions in the HMA offices for the new Tib replacement. Also, for what it's worth, I've seen at least one report indicating the FD will not be sold in the US, but the HMA guy seemed to think it will; they are working on marketing strategies for what they call the "Elantra FD" (no official name yet) around the office at HMA.

I think Elantra is a strong enough nameplate in the US that Hyundai should capitalize on it when introducing the FD in the US market.

[lcanajoharie]

It HAS TO BE the elantra hatch! I just hope I have enough equity in my XD2 by the time we get it to trade in. This car is sexy. 17" wheels from the factory... :D

[SuperGLS]

Interesting that the press release talks about a hatchabck and an estate version. In Europe "estate" means sedan or wagon? I can't remember right now, but I think it means wagon.

So it'll be interesting to see the differences between the hatch and the wagon. The Kia Cee'd has a wagon version coming out that looks pretty crazy so I imagine the FD wagon would be similar (as the FD is based off the Cee'd).

http://www.diariomotor.com/imagenes/kia-ceed-sportywagon-2.jpg

http://www.jalopnik.com/assets/resources/2006/09/kia_ceed_sw.jpg

[xdforme22]

OOOOHHH, I like that hatch! Very nice looking and I love the gauges! Any idea what kind of power it will be getting? (The engines mentioned in the article are for europe).

[KeWLKaT]

no rotary engine in the FD? :(

[joph09]

^ha i was thinking the same thing,
i like it but it has a very familiar look of other cars ie. honda fit or mazda 3, hyundai has to be more original in it's exterior designs. the concepts of the designs are great but the end product doesn't catch my eye

[xdforme22]

Yeah, reports are saying that it won't be sold in the US, but if we have an insider saying otherwise, hope is restored :)

[SuperGLS]

Here are some pictures (could be chops, not sure, the crooked H is backwards on the second pic) of the actually Wagon version of it. It's a lot less radical than the Kia Cee'd SW (sports wagon).

Perhaps we'll get this version in North America?

http://www.autoweek.nl/images/800/0/04c17b66adbd898a978a65308ef30640.jpg

http://www.autoweek.nl/images/800/a/099f2d5f5d8bb0262eec721c42bc8a0a.jpg

[SuperGLS]

Production pics:

http://file1.bobaedream.co.kr/national/national1176045645.jpg

http://file1.bobaedream.co.kr/national/national1176045645_2.jpg

If that doesn't work just copy and paste... they are from BobaeDream.

It's nice. Built in turn signal mirrors. The taillights might be a little too big though. Hard to say without seeing it in person. The other thing I don't like is the rectangular-ness of the license plate area.

[xdforme22]

If it ends up being the wagon instead of the hatch, I'll be looking elsewhere. It looks sort-of like a tiny minivan (especially the rear shot) :headshake

[hyunelan2]

IMG linking and hyperlinking doesn't work, here's what to copy-paste

http://file1.bobaedream.co.kr/national/national1176045645.jpg

http://file1.bobaedream.co.kr/national/national1176045645_2.jpg

I'm gonna have to go ahead and say I hate it.

[sciphi]

Wow. That looks like a Vibe/Matrix clone. I hate those. Why can't the rear pillar be cut down and a real window installed in place of that little peep-hole. I personally like being able to see out the rear window in a wagon.

[mbv2001]

im not really feeling that. it does remind me or a vibe or matrix.

[xdforme22]

Wow. That looks like a Vibe/Matrix clone. I hate those. Why can't the rear pillar be cut down and a real window installed in place of that little peep-hole. I personally like being able to see out the rear window in a wagon.

Because that little kink makes the car hip. Wagons are soooo in now :rolleyes:

[SuperGLS]

The Vibe/Matrix are just new versions of the Dodge Colts, Eagle Summits, Nissan Axxess's... it's all an evolution of older cars.

Toyota just figured out that it was the right time to "reinvent" that segment in North America.

And now everyone else wants in (Mazda, Hyundai, Nissan, Honda, etc).

Mike... you couldn't see the pics? I could see them at home which obviously I could see them since I viewed them on BobaeDream, but also I could see them at work where I never looked at them before.

[hyunelan2]

I can't see the "production pics" you posted, at work or at home. Nothing but Red Xs for me.

[SuperGLS]

Here you go son.

http://www.encyber.com/comm/board/bl_view.php?tid=photo&division=&p=1&schf=Subjectk&schv=%BC%AD%BF%EF%B8%F0%C5%CD%BC%EE&lskin=list&range=&del_gubun=&modiidxNo=3371,3369,3364,3358,3349,&idxNo=3344

Does that work?

[Candu]

First test drive....

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/main.jhtml;jsessionid=LBBTKOOMVH4MLQFIQMFCFF4AVCBQ YIV0?xml=/motoring/2007/03/10/nosplit/mfhyu10.xml

[Fox]

sorry for the bump, but am i the only one to think the motor looks like the beta/beta 2with a new plastic cap? nothing new out there i guess
http://bp3.blogger.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/Re3W4jw-01I/AAAAAAAAFRE/csQ5NxM5_LQ/s1600-h/Carscoop_i30_30.jpg

[jayupark]

Here you go son.

http://www.encyber.com/comm/board/bl_view.php?tid=photo&division=&p=1&schf=Subjectk&schv=%BC%AD%BF%EF%B8%F0%C5%CD%BC%EE&lskin=list&range=&del_gubun=&modiidxNo=3371,3369,3364,3358,3349,&idxNo=3344

Does that work?

The girls look great but the car looks like a small minivan... ugh, not for me.

http://bp3.blogger.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/Re3S1jw-0ZI/AAAAAAAAFNk/IT-VU6Jju5Y/s1600-h/Carscoop_i30_7.jpg

is sooo much nicer... now if they made that with AWD or RWD and brought it to our continent, I would start making plans to get it.

[xdforme22]

Here is a commercial for the i30 hatch.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1Fk4jjiGTA

[SuperGLS]

They really need to sell that to us.

That highway is the same one in the Ferrari commercial someone posted a couple weeks ago.

Does anyone know where it is?

[xdforme22]

I agree, however at one or two angles in the commercial, I think it looks like a small minivan (mazda5ish). However, I think in person, it would look great.

[xdforme22]

Heard they are only selling the wagon in the US. Why is it the US cannot get any nice hatches? So much for hyundai keeping my business. I'll take the 2008 Lancer. It may be underpowered stock (as in first mods would be intake and exhaust), but its a lot sportier than anything comming out of korea (tib is another discussion). At this rate, Hyundai is going to have before-scion-toyota -demographics. Give us a couple nice, 4cyl, youthful cars for once!

[cbrmale]

Yes, the i30 Hatch (but no wagon) for Europe, Australia and New Zealand et al with the i30 Wagon (but no hatch) for the North American market.

The Hatch looks Euro-stylish enough, while the wagon looks, well, like a wagon.

In Australia and Europe, the XD range were introduced mid-2000 with the sedan and hatch together. Since the demise of the XD Hatchback, Hyundai's sales in Australia have plummeted. On the roads here, about 9 out 10 XDs are hatches, and there can be no doubt that Hyundai Australia can't wait to get it's hands on this new hatch.

[Doohickie]

Here is a comparison between what the US is getting (the wagon):
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/04/i30wag_small.jpg

versus the hatch:
http://images.paultan.org/images/4577-hyundai_i30/8.jpg

I'd be much more likely to buy the hatch myself.

[hyunelan2]

Somebody needs to photoshop the following:

Take the roof rails off of the wagon.
Put the hatch wheels onto the wagon.


I think then the comparison would be more similar.


P.S. The wagon still sucks. I'm not crazy about the hatch either.

[SuperGLS]

The only reason I don't like the wagon is because the back is eww. It's very squarish which doesn't mix well with the rest of it.

I won't believe it's due for the NA market until I hear it from Hyundai themselves though. It's hard to call it an Elantra Wagon because it doesn't look too much like the HD from the front (which is where it needs to look most like the HD in my opinion).

[cbrmale]

The i30 doesn't look like an HD because it isn't an HD: it is shorter, wider, lower. It doesn't share a single body panel.

The only reason for Hyundai tooling the i30 wagon is for North American sales, while the i30 hatch is very European-looking (like a Focus, Fiesta, Corsa, Astra etc). We get a lot of European cars in Australia these days, so the new Huyndai will not look out of place. Australia hasn't decided yet whether to badge it Elantra or something else.

Regardless of the name, I can't wait to get my hands on one. It is modern-looking without the bland anonymity of the HD, and it has lost the fussy details of the XD.

[SuperGLS]

Some new real life pics courtesy of Motorpasion.

http://www.motorpasion.com/images/galleries/hyundai-i30/Hyundai_i30-24.jpg

http://www.motorpasion.com/images/galleries/hyundai-i30/Hyundai_i30-21.jpg

http://www.motorpasion.com/images/galleries/hyundai-i30/Hyundai_i30-22.jpg

http://www.motorpasion.com/images/galleries/hyundai-i30/Hyundai_i30-23.jpg

Also, I'll repost this video that someone posted.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxHwxsQUSA4

[GrGaKC]

Well, I've been to my dealer today (had a free check-up, and my ball-joint is loose on my rear-right wheel... :( ), and the official statement is that i30 isn't going to be sold in North America. It's made as a replacement for Elantra's in the European market (yeah, we aren't getting HD here). On a brighter note, since I'm all good with the guy working there, he said when those come here in Croatia (about a month or so), I can get a test drive just to see how it works (hoping I'll get to it after exams). They had an official drive with it two months ago, and the thing he liked the most was the 2.0l diesel engine. Said it has alot of punch...

Anyway, I know this is all hear-say, but here's to hoping for some real-life pics from me, and a driving experience... ;)

[Doohickie]

The i30 hatch will not be sold in the U.S., that's true. There will be a slightly longer i30 wagon that will be sold in the U.S. as an Elantra wagon though.

[SuperGLS]

Interesting news. Hyundai is teaming up with MS Design to make the i30 GTi. From Auto Express:




Called the Sport Package, it’s a set of aftermarket styling enhancements and suspension tweaks designed to give the Korean maker’s new Ford Focus rival the hot hatch treatment.

Although there are no engine upgrades, the changes certainly pro-vide the i30 with a sharper look. The bodykit comprises spoilers all-round, plus lowered side sills, a black plastic grille cover and twin exhausts.

The Sport Package also includes 17-inch alloy wheels – with 18-inch versions available as an option – while the suspension gets shortened springs. These lower the ride height and give the i30 more direct, sporty handling. The enhancements are from tuning company MS Design, but buyers after official Hyundai styling accessories will only have to wait until Christmas, when the company will announce a whole range of spoilers, bodykits and alloy wheel designs for the i30.

Meanwhile, the model’s sister car, the Kia Cee’d, will be available from 2008 in hot hatch form, with an ‘XR’ badge, racy looks and increased performance.


http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_441/car_photo_220601_5.jpg

Looks nice.

[Blackcasper2005]

hmm reminds me of a mazdaspeed 3 but i would buy it, looks nice with the kit

[sleepergt]

i would buy that too in a heartbeat

[hyunelan2]

It looks neat, but it's disappointing it's an "appearance only" upgrade, menwhile the Kia Ceed XR gets "increased performance" too.

[jalmir]

ha! you guys should live in Canada ... we are getting HPP (Hyundai Performance Parts, and it's in Canada only!!!) ... CAI/SRI, exhausts, suspensions, BBK and superchargers directly from the dealer AND it's all under Hyundai warranty! :cool:

but yeah, I'd buy that i30! :D

[Ugzz]

just had to do it
http://inlinethumb32.webshots.com/8287/2150311520069298654S425x425Q85.jpg

im so slow i totally started on that before this whole page of posts.. i was hoping to post it right after the orig ones. lol

only took the ant/wheels/ and turn sig too.. i just zoomed in real close to clean up the image more.. ha
also im kinda workin too.. kinda :D

[Ugzz]

im surprised no one commented on this from last week.
so what are the opinions on the chopped car..
personally i think the additions make it 10x better

[xdforme22]

ha! you guys should live in Canada ... we are getting HPP (Hyundai Performance Parts, and it's in Canada only!!!) ... CAI/SRI, exhausts, suspensions, BBK and superchargers directly from the dealer AND it's all under Hyundai warranty! :cool:

but yeah, I'd buy that i30! :D

Another reason to plan a trip to canada!

[Daan]

Any news? Is this (in whatever form) really coming here?

[SuperGLS]

Yeah, see this thread.

http://www.elantraxd.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24849&highlight=elantra+touring

[Munky]

Starting to see some KDM love for the i30's:

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_172978_2.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_172978_5.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_172978_10.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174384_1.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174384_2.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174384_3.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174384_4.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174384_5.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174384_12.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174733_6.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174733_8.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174733_13.jpg

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_174733_14.jpg

[only1db]

pretty badass...cant wait to drive one.

[SuperGLS]

I really hope Hyundai reconsiders and brings the hatch here also. It looks so much better than the wagon.

[hyunelan2]

+1. Hatch looks good, the wagon is almost exactly the same, but looks like butt.

[Qyn]

To revive the naming strategy issue, it's mostly to cut down on localization costs, to avoid another Chev Nova disaster.

[i8acobra]

Starting to see some KDM love for the i30's:

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_172978_5.jpg



What engine is this? Intake is on the front side, exhaust against the firewall. Not a Beta, obviously.

[Munky]

What engine is this? Intake is on the front side, exhaust against the firewall. Not a Beta, obviously.

Could be the same 2.4L that's in my Sonata. Mine is the same way.

[NovaResource]

Starting to see some KDM love for the i30's:

http://crookedh.com/munky/bobaedream/i30/img_172978_5.jpg

What engine is this? Intake is on the front side, exhaust against the firewall. Not a Beta, obviously.

Could be the same 2.4L that's in my Sonata. Mine is the same way.

Looks the same to me. Just a different engine cover.

2009 Sonata 2.4L Theta:
http://image.motortrend.com/f/9757820/112_0806_06z+2009_hyundai_sonata+engine.jpg

[i8acobra]

So, did this guy do a swap or did the other guy with the turbo Beta do a swap... or does Hyundai offer both motors in the i30?

[hyunelan2]

Engine specs no the i30:
http://worldwide.hyundai-motor.com/common/html/showroom/passenger/i30/spec.html

[only1db]

i believe thats the turbo diesel.

the touring will get the beta III in the hd.