Hyundai has used today's European 'Product Momentum' press event (Dec 10, 2014) to launch its updated i40 saloon and Tourer estate, crucial weapons in its armoury as the Korean car makers seeks to climb above Ford and Toyota on Irish buyers' shopping lists.
The most obvious changes to the i40 are on the outside, where there's a new, chrome-filled jutting grille and narrower, more piercing lights. Inside there are new TFT and touchscreens, as well as new navigation software and better smartphone integration. The biggest changes though are under the bonnet. For most Irish i40 drivers, the key 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine remains unchanged with 115hp. The range-topping version gets a power boost from 136- to 141hp though, and more importantly there's now the option of a new 7DCT dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which Hyundai says improves performance and economy at the same time (although no official figures have been released yet).
Anything else?
There is also a bevy of new driver assistance systems, although we'll have to wait and see which will be offered as standard. They include a speed limit recognition camera, active high-beam headlights and a lane departure warning system. On the sporty side, there's Active Traction Cornering Control that acts like an electronic differential and which should make the front end of the car a bit stickier and more grippy in the corners. The Tourer estate version will also get new adaptive dampers on the rear suspension, which are tied in with the Drive Mode button that alters the car's reactions and makes the steering, suspension and gearbox sportier or more comfort-oriented, depending on your mood.
Full details on the Irish market versions have yet to be confirmed.