Coupe Gets Closer

It already looks good, but if these pictures are anything to go by, the next-generation Hyundai Coupé should be even more desirable. Unveiled at last week's Detroit Motor Show, this is the HCD8, which hints at the look of the company's sporty motor due for replacement in 2006.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Mat Watson

14th January 2004

It's the first model to come from the firm's new design centre in California. Its boss Joel Piaskowski said: "Hyundai's growth has been due to its ability to offer great value. We are taking that to a new design level, and this shows what a next-generation sports car from us could be."

The squat stance, sloping roof, flared wheelarches and deep bumpers combine with a huge grille and swooping split LED headlamps to give the HCD8 a sporty appearance. And with a supercharged version of the current Coup΃©'s 2.7-litre V6 petrol engine, it should pack a decent punch. Offering about 240bhp, the newcomer prom-ises to sprint from 0-60mph in less than seven seconds, and then go on to a top speed of around 150mph.

But while it may have a tough image and lots of power, the HCD8 should be easy to live with. Piaskowski explained: "We have created this coup΃© to appeal to sports car enthusiasts and also meet everyday needs." With that in mind, practical features include longer doors to allow easy access to the lush cabin. Inside there are two-tone leather seats and a wood-trimmed floor.

To maintain maximum comfort, the driver can alter the ride height, setting it low for cruising or raising it for going over poor surfaces or speed bumps.

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