2012 Hyundai i30 Debuts at Frankfurt Auto Show

The Hyundai i30 isn't just any ordinary Euro-market compact hatchback. Flash back to 2009 and remember that the Hyundai i30 was brought over to the United States as the Elantra Touring, and while it didn't make an enormous splash, Hyundai officials tell us they are still committed to offering the Touring model here in the States.

The new generation of the popular South Korean hatchback is here. Hyundai revealed official details about its new i30, along with new images, changing its exterior design lines and bringing it to a closer European look.

The new generation i30 is recognizable thanks to the Hyundai family face with its signature hexagonal-shaped front grille and the jewel-like design of the headlamps, together with distinctive daytime running lights, said the chief designer at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre. A softer, lower character line rises up the car’s flank creating a play of light and shadow – a fundamental feature of fluidic sculpture”, added Thomas Burkle.

The new-generation i30 is recognizable thanks to the Hyundai family face with its signature hexagonal-shaped front grille and the jewel-like design of the headlamps, together with distinctive daytime running lights. These lights present an angular shape within a more softly-edged recess, adding a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury, says Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre.