Hyundai i30 2012 design reveal

The current model has been a huge success since it launched here in 2007– and something of a game changer in helping edge the Korean brand away from the ‘bargain basement’ perception buyers held of it.

The next-generation i30 will be expected to take that even further. But so far all we have to judge its abilities is the teaser rendering released today.

It shows the next step in their ‘fluidic sculpture’ design direction, with streamlined planes and flowing character lines, fronted by the now-signature hexagonal nose.

"The hexagonal appearance is unique to Hyundai, with the jewel-like front headlamps which flank the grille adding a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury," says Thomas Burkle, the chief designer at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim – where the car was penned.

"We used strong, fluid lines to sculpt a car which looks athletic while exuding a sense of constant motion, even when stationary. We managed to give the car a bold stance, transmitting a confident attitude through sporty characteristics and dynamic proportions. In this way, the car is very close to the recently unveiled i40, and we want people to recognise the Hyundai design DNA on those two models," Burkle says.

The next-generation Hyundai i30 will have its world premiere at the 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show in September, and could be expected to go on the market overseas early  next year – and here perhaps later in 2012.

But there’s no confirmation of that just yet from Hyundai Australia, although they are happy to admit the Frankfurt car will be the real thing – and to hint that we won’t have to wait years for it.

"It’s a production car, not a concept car, that will be at premiering at Frankfurt," Hyundai Australia PR manager Ben Hershman says. "If you look at recent world premieres – i40 and Veloster – they didn’t go to market two years later. There’s a sensible pattern to it."

They are also clear that the car will be crucial to the brand, which is strenuously trying to lift its profile away from the 'cheap and cheerful' tag.

"The next generation i30 will play an important role in continuing the development of the Hyundai brand in Australia," says Hyundai Australia’s marketing director Oliver Mann.

"We launched the current i30 in late 2007 and since then the car has been recognised with numerous awards, including an Australia's 'Best Small Car' award for three years running."

They’ll be hoping the next generation sparks the same result.