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Hyundai is using the Geneva motor show to give us an idea of what its future models will look like.
This is the 'Le Fil Rouge' concept car (its name translates roughly as 'common thread') and its low-slung, swoopy form will, theoretically, be applied to all future Hyundai models.
The new 'cascading' grille is the most distinctive point, wider and much lower than on existing Hyundai models, it gets jewel-like inserts for an extra depth to the style.
"'Le Fil Rouge' is a reinterpretation of Hyundai's design DNA that originated from the brand's historical Hyundai Coupe Concept in 1974," said Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice President and head of Hyundai Design Center. "Building on our long history of creating distinctive and sporty character in vehicles, we will open a new era for Hyundai design."
Donckwewolke says that the car uses the 'Golden Ratio' - a mathematical set of proportions, often found in nature, that is supposed to be naturally pleasing to the eye. El Fil Rouge gets very clean styling because of this, with a long gap between the front wheel and the seating position, suggestive of a big, powerful engine (and this in spite of the various electric and hydrogen powered concepts on Hyundai's motor show stand).
The glasshouse is low and sucked-down, while the side pillars are meant to blend in seamlessly, again giving a very clean look.
Inside, in spite of the coupe-like shape, it's a full five seater, with extra space carved out for the front-seat passenger, while the drivers' side gets more of a wrap-around, cockpit-like effect. The interior uses what Hyundai calls 'Tube Architecture' which is supposed to repeat the exterior's low and swooping style on the inside. The materials used are high-tech fabrics and recovered wood.
The whole theme of style is called 'Sensuous Sportiness' by Hyundai, and while this concept is doubtless the most extreme interpretation of it, expect to see some of these styling cues cropping up on new Hyundais in the very near future.