Hyundai is heralding its youngest ever line-up in Europe with models like the new i20 Active crossover and Santa Fe SUV.
The pair will grace the Korean brand’s stand at this month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, along with the European arrival of the company’s Android Auto technology on the i40 and a new concept car called Vision G.
Leading the way is the rugged i20 Active aimed at expanding the appeal of the i20 range when it goes on sale in Europe from early 2016, when it joins the i20 five-door and Coupe.
Revised suspension settings increase the car’s ground clearance by 20mm compared to the five-door, with the seating position also raised for better visibility.
Style features include front and rear skid plates plus cladding on the wheel arches while a new three-cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine will be available with two power outputs across all i20 body types from the end of this year.
The 100PS version is tuned to maximise fuel economy, while the 120PS unit has been developed for more spirited driving.
The new Hyundai Santa Fe in profile
The new Santa Fe, Hyundai’s longest-running model in Europe, introduces safety features like Autonomous Emergency Braking, Rear-Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and High Beam Assist.
Meanwhile, smartphone-based Android Auto, introduced on Hyundai Sonata models in the US earlier this year, will be available on the new i40 from November.
It enables users of smartphones with Android technology to connect their devices to the screen of Hyundai’s info unit for music streaming, communication and radio services.
The Vision G coupe concept showcases Hyundai’s design direction for future premium models with its ‘sling-shot’ design and advanced technology.
New features such as a sweeping touchscreen display with curved screen add a touch of sophistication.
Hyundai’s European chief Thomas A. Schmid said: “With the New i20 Active and Santa Fe we further broaden our European crossover and SUV family, with all models renewed or replaced this year.
“These two new models also enhance our youngest-ever line-up in Europe. The first eight months of 2015 were our most successful in Europe ever. And we are preparing the way for further organic growth during 2015 and beyond.”
Hyundai Vision G coupe concept
