Hyundai i40 CW, Elantra, Accent And Veloster Confirmed for Australia

Hyundai has capped off its part in the 2011 YouTube Symphony Orchestra in Sydney this weekend with the announcement of four all-new models for Australia, due later this year...

MORE HERE

Hyundai i40 CW, Elantra, Accent And Veloster Confirmed for Australia

Hyundai has capped off its part in the 2011 YouTube Symphony Orchestra in Sydney this weekend with the announcement of four all-new models for Australia, due later this year...

MORE HERE

Hyundai i40 CW, Elantra, Accent And Veloster Confirmed for Australia

Hyundai has capped off its part in the 2011 YouTube Symphony Orchestra in Sydney this weekend with the announcement of four all-new models for Australia, due later this year...

MORE HERE

2012 Hyundai Accent Gets Surprise Unveil at Montreal Auto Show

Hot on the heels of the debut of the Veloster at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Hyundai has unwrapped the all-new 2012 Accent at the Montreal Auto Show. This comes as a surprise as Hyundai Motor America had said the car wouldn’t break cover until the New York Auto Show in April.

More official images as well as official press release after the jump.

A vehicle that made its name in the industry as being a low cost option for those on a budget, Hyundai aims to keep that price structure while out-doing the competition in every other aspect.

Keeping the same styling seen on the Sonata and the new Elantra, the 2012 Accent is powered by a direct-injection 138-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder that makes 123 ft-lbs of torque and according to the Canadian press release gets 4.7 L/100 km highway and 6.4 L/100 km regardless of whether you choose the 6-speed automatic or manual. That works out to an incredible 50-mpg highway and 37-mpg city ratings in America.

EDIT: Thanks conwelpic for the heads-up about our mistake in the fuel economy conversion! Believe it or not, the Accent will achieve an est. 50 MPG on the highway according to US ratings!

Having grown in size, the new Accent is now 70mm (2.7-inches) longer between the wheels and 5mm wider. This not only makes for added interior space, but the Accent also delivers a sizable amount of cargo volume with 14 cu-ft of trunk space with the sedan and 17.2 cu-ft with the hatch. Despite all this, weight was kept to a minimum, with the new Accent sedan weighing just 2,392 lbs, while the hatchback model is slightly heavier at 2,429 lbs.

Official Canadian market details can be found after the jump and details could change for U.S. market cars

[Source: Hyundai]



PRESS RELEASE:

HYUNDAI ACCENT: UNEXPECTED SAFETY, DESIGN, AND TECHNOLOGY

MONTREAL, Quebec (January 13, 2011) – Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. introduced the all-new 2012 Accent today at the Montreal International Auto Show. Available in four-door and five-door formats, Accent redefines expectations in the subcompact category by offering the company’s attractive “Fluidic Sculpture” design, best-in-class fuel economy, and a full complement of standard safety features. Despite surprising technology and a significant increase in safety features, Hyundai will hold the line on pricing from the prior generation to continue delivering unmistakable value to customers.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2012 ACCENT

§ All-new fourth generation of the Accent subcompact

§ First vehicle to receive all-new 1.6-litre GDI “Gamma” engine, paired with 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions

­ Estimated 4.7 L/100 km highway fuel consumption

­ Engine delivers power and fuel economy superior to competitors

§ A long list of standard safety features

­ VSM, ESC, TCS, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD

­ Four-wheel disc brakes

­ Six standard airbags

§ Class-above total interior volume

­ A subcompact car with the roominess of a compact

§ Hyundai’s signature “Fluidic Sculpture” design

§ Strong value – more content and best-in-class fuel economy without an increase in price

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY FOR SUPERIOR FUEL ECONOMY

The 2012 Accent’s all-aluminum 1.6-litre Gamma 4-cylinder engine utilizes the latest engine technology to deliver a class-leading 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque and an estimated best-in-class 4.7 L/100 km highway fuel economy rating.

The engine’s most notable feature is its use of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), a first for the subcompact category. By precisely controlling the injection of fuel, GDI allows for better fuel economy, increased power, and reduced emissions. The application of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts allows for further improvements in efficiency, fuel economy, and emissions. To optimize breathing at all engine speeds, a Variable Induction System (VIS) is employed. Other elements resulting in reduced fuel consumption include an Alternator Management System, an offset crankshaft design, and electronic throttle control. To reduce lifetime operation costs and increase reliability, the Gamma features a maintenance-free silent timing chain.

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Several other systems have been improved over the outgoing model, each contributing to increased fuel efficiency. All models feature 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions with well-spaced ratios for smooth and efficient power delivery. Low-rolling resistance silica tires and a slippery shape (0.30 cd) reduce friction with the road and the air. Finally, the ActiveECO function modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response. By turning on the ActiveECO function, drivers can realize up to a seven percent increase in real-world fuel economy. The real-world result of these efficiencies is an estimated highway driving range of 915 km.

Despite the additional content, safety features, and technology packed into the all-new Accent, Hyundai has avoided the typically associated penalty of increased weight. A lower curb weight corresponds to an improvement not only in fuel economy, but all other dynamic areas. In fact, Accent offers the best power-to-weight ratio in its class by far, providing drivers with both low fuel consumption and responsive performance.

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SAFETY AS STANDARD – BECAUSE IT JUST MAKES SENSE

Hyundai doesn’t believe that consumers should have to pay a premium for safety, so a long list of safety features are included as standard equipment on all 2012 Accent models. A total of six airbags protect occupants in the event of a collision, including two front impact airbags, two front seat-mounted side impact airbags, and curtain side-impact airbags for front and rear passengers. Active front head restraints and seatbelt pretensioners work in conjunction with the airbag system to aid in preventing injury.

The Accent’s underlying structure is engineered to protect occupants using a Collision Load Dispersion mechanism. The vehicle’s structure distributes the force of an impact in three ways to minimize floor deformation and maintain the integrity of the cabin.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control work together to help deliver confident handling in all conditions. Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) integrates control of the ESC and motor-driven power steering (MDPS) to provide handling assistance in slippery conditions or in sudden cornering scenarios. The system can deliver up to 8 Newton-meters of counter-steering effort when required to assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle.

A key safety element for any vehicle is its braking system. Accent is the only car in the subcompact segment to offer four wheel disc brakes as standard. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) featuring Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) is also included. EBD examines the effect of vehicle load on weight distribution and apportions the braking force between front and rear axles so as to maximize stopping ability. In the event of a panic stop, BA ensures that maximum braking force is applied.

SMALL OUTSIDE, BIG INSIDE

Accent rides on a 2,570 mm wheelbase and is 1,700 mm in width, representing an increase of 70 mm and 5 mm respectively over the outgoing model. As a result, Accent enjoys superior interior volume and passenger space. Total length of the new model is 4,370 mm for 4-door versions and 4,115 mm for the 5-door. While the car’s exterior dimensions are consistent with those of traditional subcompacts, Accent is classified by Transport Canada as a compact sedan thanks to its interior volume. To provide perspective, Accent 4-door features more total interior volume than the Honda Civic.

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Convenient storage spaces are included throughout the cabin, including bottle holders in each door and a storage tray at the base of the centre console. A deluxe centre console is available, a feature not seen on Fit, Aveo, Fiesta, or Mazda2. Split and fold 60/40 rear seats are available for increased cargo flexibility when transporting longer items.

FEATURES AND AMENITIES WORTHY OF MORE EXPENSIVE VEHICLES

Choosing a subcompact sedan no longer means foregoing comfort and convenience features. A standard 6-way adjustable driver’s seat and standard tilt steering wheel work in conjunction to provide a comfortable driving position. Power door locks, standard on all Accent models, can be paired with the convenience of available power windows, remote keyless entry, and power heated mirrors. A 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with iPod / USB / AUX ports is standard equipment. Those seeking added listening enjoyment can opt for a 6-speaker, 172 watt AM/FM/XM/CD audio system featuring Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity and steering wheel audio controls. Cruise control, air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and a power sunroof are all available.

CONFIDENT HANDLING CHARACTERISTICS

The first step toward confident handling dynamics is a rigid structure. To this end, the 2012 Accent employs high-tensile strength steel for a structure which is 22 percent stiffer than the previous generation and 38 percent stiffer than the Toyota Yaris. Increasing the stiffness of the structure allowed Hyundai engineers more flexibility in terms of suspension tuning. The end result is a better balance between handling precision and ride comfort. Accent employs a MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs, twin-tube gas shock absorbers, and a 21 mm stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is a torsion axle setup with coil springs and monotube shock absorbers.

ATTRACTIVE DESIGN

The 2012 Accent joins the Hyundai line-up sporting the company’s increasingly popular Fluidic Sculpture design. The vehicle’s exterior lines are intended to be futuristic, dynamic, and sleek. In a segment typically associated with staid designs, Accent stands out from the crowd. While the styling provides an attractive form, it’s also functional, featuring a slippery 0.30 coefficient of drag. Five-door models include a sporty trunk lid-mounted spoiler. For an assertive stance, 16” alloy wheels are available.

HYUNDAI AUTO CANADA CORP.

Hyundai Auto Canada, established in 1983 and headquartered in Markham, Ontario, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout Canada by Hyundai Auto Canada and are sold and serviced through more than 195 dealerships nationwide.

Hyundai Unveils 5-Door Verna in China

Hyundai has revealed the 5-door hatchback variant of the Verna (Accent) at the Ghangzhou Motor Show in China.

According to Hyundai, the 5-door Verna was developed exclusively for the Chinese market and will go on sale there early in January. The 4-door variant was introduced last August.

The Chinese market Verna will be built locally at a plant in Beijing. It will come with two petrol engines - a 1.4 liter and 1.6 liter. The entry-level 1.4 Gamma engine develops a total of 108 PS (79 kW) and 135 Nm of torque. The 1.6 liter Gamma comes with an output of 124 PS (90 kW) and 155 Nm of torque.

Hyundai sales are growing quickly in China. The Korean brand expects Chinese market sales of around 700,000 units for 2010. By 2012, when a third Chinese plant starts production, Hyundai will have a capacity to build 1 million vehicles a year for the local market.



[Source: Hyundai]

Spied: 2012 Hyundai Accent US-Spec Undisguised

The folks over at LeftLane News have obtained the first spy shots of the North American-spec 2012 Hyundai Accent today. Having seen images of the Korean-spec Accent and the Russian-spec Solaris already, the latest shots of the virtually identical North American model are mere deja-vu moments for us. Nonetheless, head over to LeftLane News to feast your eyes upon the first camoflauge-free images of the all-new Accent destined for North American showrooms early next year.

[Source: LeftLane News]

Hyundai Begins Accepting Orders for New Accent in Korea

Hyundai has begun accepting orders for the all-new redesigned Accent in its home market of South Korea today, ahead of its official sales launch on November 1st. For the new generation, Hyundai is bringing back the Accent nameplate for the Korean market after having supplanted it with the Verna moniker since 1999.

Hyundai is marketing the new Accent as a "premium compact" sedan, and is packing an expansive list of amenities and technologies to back such an audacious claim. For one, the Accent is the first in its class to bring six airbags standard across the range. Active front headrests and rear parking assist are also standard equipment in the new Accent. Also available is Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), or Hyundai's way of calling electronic stability control.

The highlight of the new Hyundai Accent, however, is found under the hood where an all-new 1.6-liter GDI Gamma four-cylinder engine resides. It produces a class-leading 140 PS (138 horsepower) and 122 lbs.ft of torque, and achieves equally segment-topping fuel economy figures of 16.7 km/L (40 US MPG) thanks to a 6-speed automatic transmission mated to the engine. A smaller 1.4L MPI Gamma four-cylinder engine is also available.

The new Accent also boasts the largest interior room in its class, thanks to increased dimensions in all aspects (4370mm length x 1700m width x 1455mm height). The wheelbase has also augmented by 70mm from its predecessor to 2570mm.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Unveils All-New Solaris in Russia: Accent for North America and S. Korea

Hyundai finally pulled the wraps off the production version of the 2012 Accent today in Russia, where it will be called Solaris. The all-new Solaris is Hyundai's first model to be produced at the company's sixth overseas manufacturing base in St. Petersburg, Russia. The Solaris is based on the RB Concept, which was recently unveiled at the 2010 Moscow International Motor Show.

The Hyundai Solaris is essentially the redesigned Accent that South Koreans and North Americans will be receiving next year. The Solaris continues Hyundai's 'Fluidic Sculpture' design theme and incorporates, according to the company, elegant lines resembling a calligrapher’s “orchid strokes”. The front fascia, as previewed by the RB Concept, sports a new front fascia that evokes that of the larger Avante/Elantra.

The Hyundai Solaris will be available in two powertrain configurations for the Russian market, 1.4L or 1.6L DOHC in-line Gamma four cylinder gasoline engines that feature multiport fuel injection with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing). The 1.4 Gamma produces 105 horsepower and 100 lbs.ft of torque, while the larger 1.6L churns out 121 horsepower and 114 lbs.ft of torque. Both engines are mated to either a five-speed manual tranny or a four-speed auto.

To fit the climate of the Russian market, the Solaris will be equipped with specialized features such as rear heating duct, 4.0L washer fluid reservoir with a fluid level sensor, 60Ah battery for higher cold start performance, wiper deicer, front seat warmers and heated outside mirrors.

Hyundai plans to sell 85,000 units of the Solaris annually in Russia starting 2011 including the five-door hatchback model which will join the line-up later that year.

[Source: Hyundai Motor Company/Image: AP Photo]

READ MORE for more hi-res images of the Hyundai Solaris!

2012 Hyundai Accent (RB): New Spy Shots!

Yes yes, many of you are wondering why the all-new Accent is clad in camo when it was already unveiled as the Verna in Beijing last month. However, that was the Chinese-market model that is a little different from the test mules caught today. Our latest spy shots of the 2012 Hyundai Accent show the version that the South Korean and North American market will be getting next year.

The 2012 Accent RB was already unveiled in thin concept guise at the Moscow International Auto Show as the "RB Concept." The Accent we will be getting will sport the corporate hexagonal front-grille which has permeated throughout the entire line-up about now. Everything else exterior-wise should stay similar to the Chinese-market Verna.

To check out hi-res images of the "RB" Concept, CLICK HERE.

Keep checking TheCarBlogger for new spy shots of the Veloster and the Genesis facelift to be posted in the days to come!

READ MORE for more spy pics of the 2012 Hyundai Accent/Verna (RB)!

Hyundai Announces Details on Next Accent, Elantra, and Veloster for North America

Hyundai has released auto show information and on-sale dates of three upcoming small cars today.

First of all, Hyundai confirmed our hunch that the RB Concept, recently unveiled at the Moscow International Auto Show, will indeed reach North American markets as the Accent. Hyundai said that the next Accent will go on sale in the U.S. in mid-2011. The automaker also said the production RB will offer a choice of two four-cylinder engines: a 122 horsepower 1.6-liter and a 105 horsepower 1.4-liter. This might be the case for North American models as well.

The redesigned Elantra sedan for North America is coming to this year's Los Angeles International Auto Show held in November. According to Inside Line, the new Elantra, already on sale in South Korea as the Avante, will be powered by Hyundai's Theta-II 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The Korean-market Avante is propelled by a direct-injected version of Hyundai's 1.6-liter engine that produces 140 horsepower.

The production Veloster compact sport coupe will make its global debut at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The front-wheel drive coupe will be powered by a direct-injected 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an output in the 140-horsepower range. The Veloster is expected to go on sale by the end of 2011.

[Source: Inside Line]

Hyundai Unveils RB Concept in Moscow, Preview of Accent for Other Markets?

Hyundai took the wraps off the "RB" Concept at the Moscow International Auto Show today. And all we can say is, "That looks eerily familiar." That's because the RB Concept is essentially a thinly decorated version of the next-generation Accent (Verna in several markets) that was already unveiled in production guise for the Chinese market in Beijing.

The RB (which also happens to be the code-name of the next Accent) Concept sports a new front fascia that evokes the Fluidic Sculpture design theme observed by Hyundai's as of late. Other differences from the Chinese-market Verna are purely due to the RB's "Concept" namesake, with LED foglamps and taillamps, projector headlamps, as well as body-integrated dual exhausts that will not make the cut for the production car.

Hyundai officials confirmed that, at least for the Russian market, the new Accent will be powered by either a 1.4L or 1.6L Gamma engine. Featuring multiport fuel injection and CVVT or Continuously Variable Valve Timing, the 1.4 liter engine makes 107 PS and 135Nm of torque while the more potent 1.6 liter produces 124PS and 156Nm of torque. Both will be mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Now here's the interesting part. Remember that spyshot of the mysterious sub-compact prototype that befuddled us as to what it really was? Yes, that prototype is indeed the production version of the RB Concept, as the front fascia beneath the camo of the test car matches that of the RB Concept. What we can infer from this finding is that the Chinese-market Verna will most likely stay in China, as Hyundai has a tendency to tart up its cars exclusively for that market like this one. Meanwhile, the RB Concept is likely to be our best glimpse of the Accent destined for other markets like North America, Europe, Australia and South Korea.

[Source: Hyundai]

READ MORE for a full gallery of hi-res images of the RB Concept.