Hyundai chases the C-MAX

These are the first official pictures of the HED-5 concept, which points the way for a people carrier designed to rival the Ford C-MAX.

And the study will become a showroom reality in the next three years. Based on the platform of the i30 hatch, the newcomer will offer seating for six, with three chairs in two rows, as seen in Honda’s FR-V.

Likely to be badged i35, the MPV promises to look sharp. As you can see, the short bonnet and sleek profile of the HED-5 are in stark contrast to tra­ditional MPVs. The rear will be distinct-ive, too, with sculpted tailgate glass, similar to Honda’s Civic. Huge lights form part of the rear wings.

The i35 is set to replace the Matrix in Hyundai’s line-up. A facelifted version of that car will appear at the Geneva show next month, before it’s replaced early in 2009. The firm will also unveil its new green brand at the Swiss expo. As with Ford’s ECOnetic system, the package will be available on smaller models in the range. Green versions of the i10 supermini and i30 are due to arrive early next year.

Using aerodynamic aids, special gearing and low-friction tyres, the aim is to develop models with CO2 emissions below 100g/km. An eco-friendly version of the Santa Fe off-roader is expected to be added later.