The new Hyundai i30 may reappear in the U.S. as the next Hyundai Elantra Touring.
It’s not always easy maneuvering your way around the Frankfurt Motor Show. Even if you speak fluent German it’s difficult to interpret some of nuanced news that comes out of the show. Like whether the new i30 Hyundai plans to unveil next week will make its way to this side of the Atlantic and reappear as the new Elantra Touring model.
That does appear likely, however, as Hyundai officials have already hinted that a hatch/wagon model would follow to offer an alternative to the current Elantra sedan. The challenge has been to come up with a 2-box variant that would maintain the 4-doors visual stopping power – as this advance image of the i30 suggests Hyundai designers have accomplished.
“The new-generation i30 is recognizable thanks to the Hyundai family face with its signature hexagonal-shaped front grille and the jewel-like design of the headlamps, together with distinctive daytime running lights,” said Thomas Burkle, the maker’s chief European stylist. “These lights present an angular shape within a more softly-edged recess, adding a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury.”
Anticipate some changes, possibly to the slick 2-bow grille as well as the rear bumper, in order to meet U.S. crash standards. More modest revisions would also be needed to confirm with American lighting specifications.
In Europe, the i30 has routinely turned in the best sales numbers of any Hyundai model, no surprise considering Continental buyers prefer products several sizes smaller – and notably more fuel-efficient – than their American counterparts.
Look for at least one diesel offering for Europe which, however, is unlikely to head over to the States.