2009 Hyundai Coupe

August 2007

Yes, they are at it again. The SIII has just settled itself in at the dealers and got itself some fans and Hyundai are off making another Coupe. However, not just a facelift, this one looks likely to get rear-wheel drive.


The full story on the new Hyundai Coupe is on Auto Express, but as this is only available to registered AE members I've handily reproduced it here for you.

New Hyundai Coupe 2009 New Hyundai Coupe 2009

Hyundai's Coupe 2009 is heading our way!

"This disguised model may not look like a Mustang - but that is exactly what it is... according to Hyundai. That's the Korean firm's nickname for the newcomer, which it believes will be its answer to Ford's muscular legend.

Due on sale in 2009, the car will replace the company's current Coupe, although it will have a rear-wheel-drive layout, rather than the existing model's front-wheel set-up. And to make sure the two-door - codenamed BK - offers a similar driving experience to the Mustang, the manufacturer has been testing it alongside the US machine.

Despite the change in drivetrain layout, the coupe's proportions are clearly inspired by those of the outgoing model. The long bonnet and narrow side windows are retained, while projector headlamps, chrome accents in the front air intakes and stylish five-spoke alloys also feature. The shift to rear-drive will see the car move upmarket, with higher-quality materials throughout the cabin. A pair of cowled dials are set to dominate the facia, and there will also be a smart multifunction steering wheel. The hi-tech kit tally will include a new BMW iDrive-style cabin control set-up on the centre console, too.

Under the skin, the Coupe is set to share its platform with the exciting new Hyundai luxury saloon, which was previewed by the Genesis concept car at the New York Motor Show earlier this year. That model was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, but the two-door is instead expected to feature a V6 powerplant - much like one of its main rivals, the Nissan 350Z.

However, potential buyers face a long wait for the new Coupe. Hyundai only recently carried out a mid-life facelift on the current SIII, which is likely to remain in service for at least another two years."


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