New model to replace Hyundai i30 10 | 08 | 2011

HYUNDAI IS POISED to go head-to-head with the VW Golf after it launches its new i30 into Scottish showrooms early next year. The car will make its first public appearance at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show.

The newcomer, designed and engineered for the European market at Hyundai’s technology centre at Russelsheim, Germany, echoes the dimensions and major mechanical features of its predecessor, launched in 2008.

Allan Rushforth, Hyundai’s British senior vice-president and chief operating officer, is confident the new i30 will strengthen the model’s position as the Korean manufacturer's bestselling model in Europe.

Its planned success will also be pivotal in helping to push total European sales to 500,000 units by 2013. The new i30 is also expected to “play a significant role” in developing the marque’s brand image.

It's worth noting here that Hyundai has also confirmed the Czech Republic plant — where the i30 and several other models for Europe are built — is to be expanded from an initial volume of 200,000 cars a year to around 300,000.

First details of Hyundai i40 estate

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Jim McGill