Whether your priority is efficiency, speed, spec or space, Hyundai has got it all covered in 2017.
IONIQ
There hasn’t yet been a hybrid car that has come close enough to knocking the Toyota Prius off its perch, but Hyundai might have just done it with the new IONIQ.
Hyundai’s first attempt at a hybrid family hatch is incredibly strong. The IONIQ offers plenty of practicality, including impressive safety technology, a large boot (bigger than its Japanese rival), and 60/40 folding seats.
Efficiency figures are excellent; you can expect mpg as high as 83 with emissions as low as 79g/km. But what makes the IONIQ stand out is its range of three electrified powertrains.
A 1.6-litre petrol engine powers the hybrid version at normal and higher speeds. The engine has been specifically designed to optimise fuel efficiency. When driving at low speeds and during rapid acceleration, the electric motor kicks in, which is charged by regenerative braking during deceleration.
If you won’t settle for anything less than ultra-efficiency, the IONIQ Electric model features rapid charge compatibility and is eligible for the Government Plug-in Grant. Drivers have the option to enhance efficiency with this model, using steering wheel controls. The IONIQ Electric model has a range of up to 174 emission-free miles on a single charge.
The specs for the plug-in hybrid version are yet to be released, but if these first two models are anything to go by, you won’t be disappointed.
Price: from £19,589
Release date: The electric and hybrid options are available now. In fact, we have one model on showcase at our Glasgow Alexandra Parade branch. But if you’re holding out for the plug-in hybrid version, you can expect that later this year.
Hyundai i10 (facelift)
While there might not be too many obvious aesthetic changes to the facelifted Hyundai i10 (aside from the new cascading grille), there have been some significant improvements that have really improved the driving experience.
The main focus with Hyundai’s i10 facelift is with updates to the equipment and safety levels. Among them, the new infotainment system features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as having its own sat-nav system. A suite of driver assist features are also available in some trim levels, including speed camera and real-time traffic updates and weather information.
The safety kit is also expansive, with front collision warning system, lane departure warning and a front-mounted camera.
The facelifted i10 is powered by the same engines as the previous model, but tweaks to the suspension and steering will make for a much more engaging drive.
Price: from £9,250
Release date: January 2017
New-look i30
The Hyundai i30 is a practical, easy-to-drive hatchback, but this year, Hyundai will redefine its place in the segment with some stylish updates, improvements to spec and a suite of efficient engines.
The redesigned hexagonal grille is one of the styling tweaks that have made the new-look i30 distinctive. Combine this with the subtly sloping roof and athletic lines and you’ve got a family hatchback with some serious kerb appeal.
There will be five trim levels available, but the standard spec is quite impressive, with alloy wheels, DAB radio, emergency braking and lane assist available. The top-spec Premium SE trim offers some opulent extras, such as a heated steering wheel, leather seats and panoramic sunroof.
There will be six engines to choose from, but we expect the turbocharged 1.0-litre, three-cylinder and new turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol to be the most sought-after options. CO2 emissions range from 89–130g/km.
Price: from £16,995
Release date: 1st March 2017
B-segment SUV
We don’t know much about this as yet unnamed model, but it is expected to be based on the second-generation Hyundai i20 and will be pitted against the likes of the Nissan Juke, Toyota C-HR and Mazda CX-3.
AutoEvolution spied the model being tested in Germany, and from what we can tell, there’ll be some more of the same hexagonal grille action found in the new-look i30 and i10 facelift and some sleek exterior styling that will set it apart from more aggressive-looking rivals.
Watch this space for more updates as we hear them!
Price: Unknown
Release date: Expected in October 2017
N Range
If you’re unsure what the N Range is, think of it as Hyundai’s version of the BMW M models, or the Mercedes-Benz AMG line. In short, it’s Hyundai’s shot at creating a range of performance cars that has its roots in the brand’s motorsport heritage.
There are expected to be two N versions of the i30 released later this year, a base model and more performance-orientated version. Albert Biermann, Hyundai’s head of vehicle test and performance development, spoke to Auto Express about the distinction between the two:
‘The character will be a little bit different. On the one car, we focus a little bit more on the everyday driving, but it’s also racetrack capable – you can push it hard. The other one is more track going with everyday driving more compromised – you can expect more power, too.’
RM16 at the Busan Motor Show
We’re expecting the car to be based on the RM16 model that was showcased at the Busan Motor Show last year. The RM16 has a super lightweight construction, aerodynamic chassis and electronic limited-slip differential, which is great for handling tight corners in front-wheel-drive.
While the more intricate details are yet to be established, one thing’s for sure, this range is going to be fun.
Price: Unknown
Release date: Expected in November 2017