So it's practical, but what about performance? Hyundai's new concept is powered by a supercharged 2.7-liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed manual transaxle. Its tuned dual exhaust system no doubt offers up an exciting preamble to what should be impressive off-the-line performance.
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| Hyundai's new concept is powered by a supercharged 2.7-liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed manual transaxle. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada) |
It sounds as if Hyundai has found a unique and more or less untapped niche, which can either be a bang or bust proposition in today's fickle market. Some automakers, such as Chrysler, have done well with "segment busting" vehicles, the PT Cruiser comes to mind, but others, such as Subaru, have had trouble getting customers to buy into their unusual ideas, the new Baja being just one example.
With that in mind, will Hyundai build a production version of the HCD8 Sports Tourer? According to Zarlenga, something similar is being considered.
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| the HCD8 Sports Tourer is a bold, innovative new concept that could be just what's needed to reinvigorate the sports coupe market. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada) |
"The HCD8 is a conceptual design model used to evaluate the design, package and proportion of the next generation sports coupe," stated Zarlenga.
Of course the Korean brand will be weighing the pros and cons before going to market. So far Hyundai has been successful with the majority of its undertakings in North America, being that it has more or less offered similar products to its Japanese and Big 3 domestic competitors at lower prices. As stated above, venturing into unknown territory could be risky.