New Hyundai i40 finally a real rival for the likes of Ford?

Will this new Hyundai be a serious rival for the likes of the Mondeo? I seriously think so...

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Nope, it's the new Hyundai i40 that could be flying out of showrooms from 2012. This forthcoming saloon and estate range will rival vehicles such as the masterful Ford Mondeo, so it had better have a few tricks up its exhaust to take-on MB STAR C3 that lot. One of the i40's significant virtues is likely to be value for money, as this distinctive package is expected to be considerably cheaper than many of the alternatives.

However, despite its low price the new Hyundai i40 will have a wide range of tantalising features. Whereas the exact specification is unconfirmed, the example in Geneva has a heated steering wheel, leather seats, and a fantastically accomplished entertainment system. This family mile-muncher will also be available with a 1.7-litre diesel engine, that should have emissions as low as 113g/km. That is less than an entry-level VW Polo 1.2 S.

Now, Hyundai is a Korean company but the new i40 is being designed in dear old Germany. This is to ensure it suits the European market. Germanic attention to detail should also virtually Launch X431 Master guarantee robust build quality, which is partly why Hyundai will have the confidence to market the i40 with a standard five-year manufacturer's warranty on all new cars. Sounds good to me, all we need now is a hatchback version. Bring on 2012. Get a free car valuation at www.motoring.co.uk to ensure you get the best price on you old family car.

The new Hyundai ix35 has many strengths and only one serious weakness. On the plus side this replacement to the Tucson has a five year warranty, pleasing handling, and enough gadgets to make the iPhone 4 look like the equivalent of two plastic cups and a length of string. This robustly constructed machine also has plenty of cabin space, and can carry an impressive 1,436-litres of luggage with the rear seats folded flat.

So, what exactly is the problem? At the risk of sounding shallower than a pea-sized puddle, it's the styling. The new ix35's grill resembles the lid of my dustbin, its fog lights look like an alien's eyes, and the overall exterior look reminds me of the scrawl of a child Autoboss v30 who has been asked to draw a scary monster. That said, the interior is far nicer and a very pleasant environment to spend a few hours. Just be careful not to drive past any mirrors.