Hyundai has come a long way in the last decade. No longer is it the butt of automotive jokes, but instead a South Korean juggernaut that continues to swell in size, push forward with the development of advanced technologies, and produce new and appealing products.
The future looks bright for Hyundai. Its current models offer excellent value-for-money and are starting to look more and more appealing. One key reason for this is the introduction of its new ‘Sensuous Sportiness‘ design language, premiered by the Hyundai Lafesta earlier this year. Future Hyundai models will adopt similarly bold designs and unlike many of its rivals, Hyundai won’t adopt a Russian doll philosophy.
In fact, the company recently said that it will implement distinct designs across its range now that it has built up its brand around the world.
Throughout the next two years, things should only get better for Hyundai. Here’s some of what we’ll see.
Launching Now
Hyundai has kicked off 2018 on a roll, launching a plethora of new and redesigned models. Perhaps the most important of them all is the latest-generation Santa Fe, priced from $25,500 in the United States and wearing a design radically different than its predecessor.
Additionally, the facelifted 2018 Hyundai Tucson recently arrived with a new look. The hydrogen fuel-cell powered Hyundai Nexo is also new to the market and has launched in Korea and will arrive in other global markets shortly. The facelifted Sonata also arrived a couple of months ago, as did the new Veloster.
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Coming Soon – Hyundai i30 N-Line and i30 N Fastback
Hyundai is preparing to expand its fleet of N-branded performance models with these two. The first, the i30 N-Line, has been designed to slot between run-of-the-mill i30 models and the i30 N hot hatch flagship. Recent tests have shown it wearing an aggressive bodykit with new touches throughout the cabin.
The Hyundai i30 Fastback will also receive an N variant, this time just as potent as the i30 N hatch. Consequently, it will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering up to 271 hp with the optional Performance Package.
The current Elantra (named Avante in Korea) is getting ready for a mid-cycle makeover, with an undisguised prototype recently spotted with a sharper front end styling. Reports also mention the introduction of a new infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Expect an introduction first in South Korea next month, with other markets to follow later in the year.
2019 Hyundai i20 facelift and 2019 Hyundai i10
Neither of these two superminis are sold in the United States but they are popular in other markets around the world. The i20 Active was recently facelifted and although it doesn’t look radically different to the previous model, it does look a little more purposeful.
As for the next-generation i10, it should hit the market next year with a new design and improved powertrains.
Powertrains: Gas, diesel, hybrid
Platform: Kia Telluride underpinnings
Debut: 2019 Detroit Motor Show (possible)
This might be the most important model of them all. The Palisade will be Hyundai’s new 3-row, 8-seat large crossover and was recently previewed by the HDC-2 Grandmaster SUV concept. We expect the SUV to receive muscular looks and to share the same platform as the Kia Telluride full-size SUV. As a result, the Palisade will be available with a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 265 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. Power will be sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic as standard. All-wheel drive will be optional.
2020 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai has yet to official confirm the Santa Cruz pickup for production but it’s widely expected to launch in 2020. Design inspiration will be taken from the 2015 concept and the Santa Cruz will rival the Ford Ranger, Jeep Scrambler, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tacoma, and Nissan Frontier.