Hyundai i40

With appealing looks, attractive pricing, loads of equipment, low emissions and a five-year warranty, the i40 looks set to be a big hit for Hyundai when it arrives in Britain next year. The early Sonata we drove has one or two flaws dynamically which Hyundai is aware of, but the basics are certainly in place. Sort these issues out, and the i40 will be a force to be reckoned with.

With appealing looks, attractive pricing, loads of equipment, low emissions and a five-year warranty, the i40 looks set to be a big hit for Hyundai when it arrives in Britain next year.

The early Sonata we drove has one or two flaws dynamically which Hyundai is aware of, but the basics are certainly in place. Sort these issues out, and the i40 will be a force to be reckoned with.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Hyundai i40 Tourer

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Small cars have been big news for Hyundai as the Korean firm’s ever-growing sales figures testify. But can it enjoy the same success further up the range?

One model which could hold the key is the new Sonata, set to be badged i40 when it arrives here next year. The annual sales target for the newcomer is 8,000 – a far cry from anything ever achieved by its predecessor. To get an early taste of what British buyers have in store, we tried the world’s first right-hand-drive version on the scenic roads around Cape Town in South Africa.

Initial impressions are positive; the Sonata is an attractive car, with elements of the Mercedes CLS evident from some angles. But UK customers are promised some tweaks. The grille will be significantly toned down, while Audi-style LED lights will be fitted at the front and rear.

Inside, there’s plenty of space to get comfortable at the wheel, and adequate rear legroom. The cabin quality continues the improvement Hyundai has made in recent years, although some of the plastics didn’t feel as sturdy as we might have hoped. Again, UK models will address this.

Handling

The car we drove came with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, although this unit won’t be offered here. Instead, a 1.7-litre turbodiesel, fitted to the ix35 later this year, is likely to attract the bulk of British sales. A 140bhp 1.6-litre petrol will also be available. Gearboxes comprise the new – and impressive – six-speed automatic we tried, plus a six-ratio manual.

In terms of handling, the Sonata is competent rather than characterful. It threads through corners with no major problems, but it’s not a car you would choose for an involving driving experience. It’s more at home cruising on long straights, although the ride comfort is
compromised, as too many road imperfections found their way into the cabin for our liking.

So the Sonata has some questions to answer, but one thing that is certain is that the i40 will offer superb value. With prices starting at £16,500 for the saloon (on sale in November 2011) and £18,000 for the estate – available in May – it will undercut rivals.

Emissions which will match or better models from the Ford Focus class will also appeal to fleet buyers. And these facts alone should ensure it helps to continue the Hyundai success story.

Rival: Toyota Avensis
Japanese contender also comes with an impressive five-year warranty and a competent if unexciting driving experience – but the i40 will be cheaper.