Hyundai Motor Co. Ltd. will debut its new C-segment hatchback at the Geneva Motor Show on March 6.
Developed under the codename FD, the new entry shares a platform with the Kia Cee’d’s and goes on sale in Europe this summer as the “i30,” a company spokesman tells Ward’s.
“The i30 is initially being produced at our plant in Ulsan (South Korea), but production will transfer to our Nosovice plant in the Czech Republic when it comes on line,” he says.
The i30 will be available with a choice of a 1.4L, 1.6L or 2.0L gasoline engine, as well as a 1.6L and 2.0L common-rail, direct-injection diesel.
The diesel mills feature variable geometry turbocharging and particulate filters. Available transmissions include a 4-speed automatic and 5-speed all-synchro manual. The i30 has a fully independent front and 5-link rear suspension.
The vehicle’s alphanumeric name is a first for Hyundai. The spokesman says the i30 designation presents a “clearer technology orientation.”
The auto maker says it has no plans at this time to sell the i30 outside Europe.
Hyundai in Geneva also will unveil a European-designed environmentally friendly cross/utility vehicle concept developed in partnership with General Electric Plastics.
