The latest version of Hyundai’s D-segment i40 car has been given its world debut at the Barcelona Motor Show.
Earlier this year Hyundai unveiled its new i40 Tourer, and now this will be joined by a new i40 saloon, which was shown to the public for the first time at the 2011 Barcelona Motor Show.
The i40 saloon, which will go on sale in the final quarter of 2011, has imposing dimensions and a spacious interior. It is 4.74 metres in length, and has a wheelbase measurement of 2.77 metres allowing for best-in-class interior dimensions with headroom of 1025mm, shoulder room of 1455mm and leg room of 1170mm.
Powering the new i40 will be a range of two petrol engines and two diesel engines, ranging from 113bhp to 174bhp. With diesel engines accounting for more than 75% of European sales in this segment Hyundai are expecting that the 1.7-litre diesel engine version, delivering a power output of 134bhp, will be the most popular choice amongst buyers. Both automatic and manual transmissions will also be available.
In addition to this frugal 1.7-litre diesel unit, Hyundai's all-new 4-cyliner 2.0-litre GDI engine, which has been named 'Nu', is making its debut in the i40. This direct-injection 1999cc engine generates higher torque, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions compared to previous Hyundai engines of this size. An i40 saloon combining this 2.0-litre engine with a six-speed manual gearbox can accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds, deliver fuel consumption of 41.5mpg on the combined cycle, and return CO2 emissions of 159g/km.
To improve the environmental credentials of the i40, it will be made available with the latest 'Blue Drive' technologies from Hyundai. These include low rolling-resistance tyres, an alternator management system, and Intelligent Stop & Go technology.
The inclusion of Blue Drive technology will allow the most frugal i40 engine, the 1.7-litre 113bhp unit, to record fuel consumption of 65.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 113g/km.
Another new development for the i40 will be a 'Reduced Noise Vibration Harshness' package for all diesel engine models, which aims to create a quieter driving experience. Hyundai claim that this package leads to a 20% reduction in interior noise levels and a reduction in exterior engine noise when the vehicle is idling.
A strong range of both active and passive safety equipment will also be available for the i40. Passive safety equipment includes a set of seven airbags fitted as standard, including front, side, curtain, and driver knee airbag. Active safety measures include an Electronic Stability Program, Anti-Lock Braking System, Hill Start Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Brake Assist System and Emergency Stop Signal.
Other equipment to be featured on the i40 includes Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, smart parking assist, lane departure warning, rear view camera, electric parking brake and a heated steering wheel.
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