Hyundai's i30 hatch has been an important model for the Korean automaker. It was the first production Hyundai to debut their 'Fluidic Sculpture' design language and has since become one of the best selling models in. Four years on, images of the 2012 model have surfaced online.
The new design has evolved into a far more aggressive and sporty package than before, and is possibly the best rendition of 'Fluidic Sculpture' yet. Up front there's nothing you haven't seen before - Hyundai's hexagonal grille, new headlights (Elantra, anyone?) and LED daytime running lights.
What's more interesting is the details. Strong creases on the bonnet and a more pronounced shoulder line make the previous generation look bulbous in comparison. Gone are the c-pillar tail lights, replaced by generic wraparounds units. It all adds up in making the new i30 far more focussed and accomplished.
The interior, too, has been updated. While few details have been revealed, you can be sure that high quality materials abound and nearly everything is tactile.
While powertrain options are yet to be confirmed you can be sure there'll be improved efficiency across the range, along with slight power increases. If recent Koreans are anything to go by, Hyundai's biggest model yet should also be one of the most satisfying to drive.
For someone who isn't a massive Ford fan, it's strange to hear me actually get excited by a new model debuting. This is face of the new Fiesta ST concept. And I have to admit, I really like it.
A 6-speed manual is another bonus, likely to win purists over from the Polo GTI.
