Published: Sep 16, 2012

Hyundai Releases i30 3-Door Hatch

Korean automaker debuts latest product designed and built in Europe for Europe.

With the Paris show fast approaching, Hyundai has released its latest product aimed specifically at the European market. That new model is a three-door version of the i30 range, joining the existing five-door hatch and wagon models in the model line. Following hot on the heels of the new Pro Cee'd (another three-door Euro hatch) which sister-company Kia released just the other day, the three-door i30 benefits from sportier styling including a higher beltline and a more steeply-raked windshield.

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The hexagonal grille with mesh instert bisected by a horizontal bar and flanked by LED running lights. The rear end has also been resculpted, and of course the pair of doors on each side have been replaced by two longer ones. A range of engines is topped by a 1.6-liter diesel with 128 horsepower to deliver what Hyundai claims is the best blend of power and economy in the segment. Designed in Germany, the i30 hatchback will be built in the Czech Republic, making it a genuine European product designed and built in Europe for Europe. Whether it makes it Stateside as a three-door counterpart to the Elantra GT, however, remains to be seen.