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WHILE motoring enthusiasts focus their attention on the forthcoming Paris Motor Show, which takes place 4th – 19th October, Hyundai is gearing up to showcase its new generation of cars, by revealing no fewer than five new models.

Alongside the new i20, Hyundai will also debut a low-emissions i20 i-blue concept, a luxurious seven-seat ix55 sports utility vehicle (that won’t be going on sale in Britain) and a concept Santa Fe equipped with a petrol-electric hybrid that is capable of returning 44mpg and emitting CO2 emissions of 148g/km. Hyundai’s Genesis Coupe show car will also be on display while the Genesis saloon will be making its European debut.

The new i20, which is expected to be launched early 2009, has a longer wheelbase than the existing Getz, is bigger inside and has a more striking appearance. And in keeping with the i10 and i30, the five door model will feature Hyundai’s trademark chrome-topped grille and teardrop headlamps at the front, while the rear gets a stack of rear light clusters to give it a more definite look. Designed and engineered to meet European tastes and needs, it’s equally good to know that Hyundai has stocked the interior with generous levels of standard equipment.