Hyundai has recreated one of its most iconic models, the Pony Coupe Concept which was unveiled at the Turin Motor Show in 1974. The automaker worked with GFG Style on the recreation, an Italian design house founded by Giorgetto Giugiaro and his son Fabrizio.
The covers were lifted on the rebuilt model in Lake Como, Italy at the inaugural Hyundai Reunion, celebrating the brand’s past and its future direction.
Hyundai had originally planned for the Pony Coupe Concept to spawn a road-going production model but difficult economic conditions in the late 1970s meant this was impossible. It is characterized by iconic geometric lines and adopts a very intriguing design that’s perhaps best viewed from the side. There is a long front overhang, flared wheel arches, silver wheels, and thick B-pillars. The shape of the rear window adds to the car’s appeal so it’s little wonder why Hyundai used the original car as inspiration for the N Vision 74 and the Ioniq 5 EV.
Read: Hyundai Denies N Vision 74-Inspired Pony Coupe Rumors
A look inside the cabin is like taking a step back in time. Hyundai’s single-spoke steering wheel stands out as do the two-toned bucket seats and floating dashboard design.
“Hyundai approached us to start a complete redesign of a model, without much experience,” Giorgetto Giugiaro described. “I was skeptical at first because I didn’t know Hyundai Motor at that time. We were all impressed by the passion and commitment of the Hyundai engineers. They were sharp, curious, open and extremely eager to learn. They immediately embraced the working methods that were new to them. They sacrificed themselves to make a good impression – for company and their partners. I’m proud and honored to witness how this company has evolved since we first met.”
Hyundai first announced its project to rebuild the Pony Coupe Concept in November last year. It is powered by a 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine producing 82 hp at 6,000 rpm which is sent through the rear wheels.
“In the age of electrification, a key condition for Hyundai Motor Company to become a leader in future mobility will be our ability to remain faithful to the unshakable values we inherited,” Hyundai president and chief executive Jaehoon Chang added. “Moving forward, through Hyundai Reunion and other heritage communication initiatives, we will continue to leverage our past as a unique vector for our future innovation.”
