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Hyundai renders new i30 unto Frankfurt

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On this side of the ocean, we're used to our Hyundais having names like Accent and Elantra. But overseas the Korean automaker has an entirely separate range with names like i20 and i30. And Hyundai is preparing to unveil the latest of the latter at the rapidly approaching Frankfurt Motor Show.

Filling the slot in Hyundai's European line-up that's filled, more or less, by the Elantra in this side of the pond, the current i30 hatchback and wagon have been on the market since 2007, so their replacement is just about right on schedule. The new model has been developed from start to finish specifically for the European market at the company's European R&D facility in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and embraces the brand's fluid design language with its trademark hexagonal grille up front.

Little in the way of solid details have been announced on the new model to accompany the teaser rendering above, but you can expect it to pack a range of gasoline- and diesel-burning four-cylinder engines when it eventually reaches European showrooms. Also, could this hatchback i30 preview what's in store for North America's upcoming Elantra Touring? We'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, follow the jump for the press release.
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HYUNDAI REVEALS FIRST RENDERING OF THE ALL-NEW i30

- 'Fluidic sculpture' uses flowing lines to showcase a dynamic appearance
- All-new-generation of i30 designed and engineered in Europe
- New model set for world premiere at Frankfurt Motor Show next month

High Wycombe, 10 August 2011 – Hyundai has released the first rendering of the next-generation i30, revealing an exciting new look for the company's bestselling C-segment hatchback. It will be unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in September.

The all-new i30 was designed and engineered at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and represents the next evolution of the unique form language, 'fluidic sculpture' – the company's distinctive design DNA.

The 'fluidic sculpture' ethos utilises flowing lines inspired by nature and modern architecture to give a constant three-dimensional presence to Hyundai vehicles, and was introduced as the Hyundai ix-onic concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Since this debut, 'fluidic sculpture' has become the design language behind all new Hyundai models launched in Europe.

Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer, Hyundai Motor Europe commented: "When designing the new i30, we used strong, fluid lines to sculpt a car which looks athletic while exuding a sense of constant motion, even when stationary. From the rendering, you can see how we managed to give the car a bold stance, transmitting a confident attitude through sporty characteristics and dynamic proportions. In this way, the car is very close to the recently unveiled i40, and we want people to recognise the Hyundai design DNA on those two models."

The next-generation i30 is also recognisable thanks to Hyundai's signature front face – the hexagonal shaped front grille.

"The hexagonal appearance is unique to Hyundai, with the jewel-like front headlamps which flank the grille adding a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury," Thomas Bürkle added.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented, "We expect this next-generation i30 to play a significant role in developing our brand image in Europe and strengthen the vehicle's position as our best-seller in Europe. Since 2007, the name 'i30' has become synonymous with 'quality', 'reliability' and 'low emissions' in Europe, and we hope that, amongst others, the term 'emotional appeal and style' will be added to the list with the introduction of this dynamic new model.

"Under our brand slogan 'New Thinking. New Possibilities', our European team of designers have sculpted a car which truly looks at home on European roads thanks to its bold and confident appearance. We are very excited about revealing the car for the first time in Frankfurt next month."

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