Future: Hot New Hyundai HC-9 Talus Coupe
Talus hints at the rear-drive BH model
By Editors of Motor Trend
Photography by the Manufacturer
Is this Hyundai concept hinting at the coupe version of a range of rear-drive sport sedans? Hard to tell until it's unveiled at the Detroit show this month, but the dash-to-axle relationship on the Hyundai HC-9 Talus looks long enough for rear drive.
Hyundai says the Talus points to its new direction for sports cars. The Tiburon, which will end production after the 2008 model year, will be replaced by a slightly larger rear-drive coupe, based on the 2008 BH, a "poor man's Bimmer," with V-8 power and rear drive.
The illustration's four-door-coupe look is confusing, although it's likely super-aggressive Hyundai is exploring that emerging trend (Mercedes CLS, upcoming VW) as well. What we do know is that a rear-drive coupe will launch for the 2009 model year, a year after the BH sport sedan. There also may be a convertible off the BH for 2010.
But wait! Korea's biggest automaker is just warming up for an all-out assault on the U.S. market. Here's what's in the pipeline:
2006: All-new Santa Fe, which makes its debut at the North American International Auto Show, Detroit, this month. The Santa Fe becomes a full-fledged midsize crossover SUV with a 3.8-liter V-6.
2007: Terracan, which sells in Asia and Europe, gets a major rework and will be launched in the U.S. Current model is an Explorer-size SUV with a 3.5-liter V-6; the new version will get a substantial makeover inside and out and a 3.8-liter V-6.
2007: Entourage minivan, based on a long-wheelbase version of the Kia Sedona, which itself is built on a Sonata platform. Originally due in 2006, this on-again/off-again program is believed to have been given the green light.
Hyundai Portico
2007: Portico is Hyundai's answer to Chrysler Pacifica and Mercedes R-Class. Styling will be based on the 2005 Chicago show car, and the interior package may feature three rows of two seats.
2008: The first of the Hyundai hybrids. Hyundai showed a hybrid powertrain in the Portico, and the system is being developed for production. Electric motors on front and rear wheels convert cars to AWD.