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Hyundai sketches Ioniq ahead of debut this month

Hyundai has an altogether new model coming soon. It's called the Ioniq, and it'll be a dedicated electrified vehicle with a choice of three powertrain options. The automaker is set to take the wraps off later this month in Korea, but before it does, it's giving us another advance look at the design. As we've seen from previous teasers and spy shots, the Ioniq is slated to blend elements from Hyundai's own design language with a form that ought to closely resemble, in abstract at least, those of rivals like the Chevy Volt and Toyota Prius. That means an aerodynamic shape ending with a high tail to get the most out of its powertrain. The interior promises to be both futuristic and comfortable. Underneath it all is a new platform developed specifically for the Ioniq and three levels of electrification. There'll be a gasoline-electric hybrid version, a plug-in hybrid, and a full EV. We should get out first look up close at the Ioniq at the Geneva Motor Show and New York Auto Show in March, following its reveal in Korea within weeks from now. But even before it's unveiled, Hyundai is already taking pre-orders in certain markets. HYUNDAI MOTOR REVEALS INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR RENDERINGS OF NEW IONIQ - New renderings reveal further innovations for the alternatively fueled IONIQ - Cutting-edge technology delivers class-leading aerodynamics and fuel efficiency - IONIQ introduces unique new vehicle design with three responsive powertrains - Pre-orders now being accepted in domestic market for the IONIQ, released later in 2016 January 5, 2016 – Hyundai Motor has revealed further details of the new IONIQ ahead of its launch in Korea later this month. The innovative alternative-fuel compact vehicle, now available for pre-order in selected markets, is the first-ever car to offer a choice of three efficient and ultra-low emission powertrain options in one body type. The latest interior and exterior renderings reveal more of the IONIQ's eco-friendly credentials, with its advanced powertrain technology central to Hyundai Motor's aim for the world's best hybrid fuel-efficiency. The newly-developed platform, available with full electric, plug-in petrol / electric hybrid, or petrol / electric hybrid powertrains, also delivers a fun and responsive driving experience to match the emotional appeal of the car'seye-catching lines. The exterior of the IONIQ features a distinguished, cutting-edge aerodynamic design.

Hyundai Veloster facelift includes new 7-speed DCT, light cosmetics

Hyundai hasn't given the Veloster the exterior overhaul that we expected, but it has outfitted the quirky, oddly doored hatchback with some new tech, at least in the Korean market. The biggest change for the Veloster is confirmation that the previously rumored seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox will replace the current six-speed unit in the Turbo. It's mated to the same 1.6-liter, forced-induction four-cylinder featuring 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The exterior receives a few tiny tweaks, too, with new wheel designs and slightly different silver trim around the grille, but the bigger changes are found in the cabin. Those alterations aren't limited to new materials: Hyundai has included a new engine sound equalizer for the Veloster that lets drivers select from six different engine soundtracks. The instrument cluster also gets slightly altered, and there are new two-tone looks for the seats, as well. According to a blog post by Hyundai, the price for the Turbo with the seven-speed dual clutch starts at 23.7 million won ($22,000). Unfortunately, there's no official word whether these changes are going to make it across the Pacific to the US market. We've got an inquiry in with Hyundai Motor America, and will let you know if we hear more.

Hyundai in trouble for overstating fuel economy numbers at home, too

Hyundai is, understandably, "very confused by the fine and the different results."
The South Korean government is investigating Hyundai and Ssangyong, alleging that the two manufacturers overstated the fuel economy figures on some of their crossovers. But while the initial investigation is being carried out by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, a separate branch of government, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is supporting the manufacturers' estimates. See Americans, our government isn't the only dysfunctional one.