Veloster Turbo will get UK-specific tuning...
Hyundai is planning a hotter version of the next-generation i30, which could use the new 1.6-litre direct injection twin-scroll turbo engine from the Veloster Turbo - but it will not be a standalone performance sub-brand.
Hyundai UK MD Tony Whitehorn said that a performance version of the new i30 is "more than likely". Discussions are underway now and it is a model the firm is "more than interested in.
"A sporting model is a halo car everyone would like."
The new model would, however, be a Sport-style variant, rather than a full Golf GTI-style sub-brand. Hyundai has not previously offered a hot hatch model and it is believed the brand needs time to gain recognition in the performance car sector before it launches a dedicated performance range.
Currently, the Veloster model is being used to help richen Hyundai's brand image. Indeed, the UK is the only European brand to show the Veloster TV commercial currently being aired, a decision that was not taken lightly.
"It is very expensive to run TV ads but we felt it was great exposure. We're not just selling the car, but selling the brand.
"Internally, we call it the Escort XR3i effect. The XR3i gave credibility to the whole Escort range and made the line-up more exciting - we want the Veloster to do the same for Hyundai."
Whitehorn also revealed that the Veloster Turbo unveiled in the US does not represent the final European specification of the performance three-door coupe. When launched at the Detroit motor show, Hyundai quoted peak power as 201hp and peak torque as 196lb. ft.
It seems likely European Veloster Turbo will have a reduced power output, but with a higher torque figure and flatter torque curve. This is to reflect Europe's curvier and more challenging roads, where transient response is preferable to higher-rev power.
"Hyundai Motor Corporation always engineers for bespoke markets. It does not do one car for the whole world, but will optimise models for individual markets." It is likely the Hyundai i30 Sport will use this tune of engine too.