Hyundai HED-5 i-Mode and Theta Turbo GDI Engine Announced for Production

Hyundai launched the sleek looking HED-5 i-Mode hatchback in Geneva earlier this year, but this is the first time the six-occupant

crossover has been fitted with the South Korean brand's new state-of-the-art Theta Turbo GDI powerplant. More importantly, along with the world debut of this engine, Hyundai made the announcement that the Theta Turbo GDI and the HED-5 i-Mode crossover are slated for production and sale into North America!

“The HED-5 i-Mode concept and the new powerplant, called the Theta Turbo GDI, have been green lighted for the U.S. market,” stated a press release from Hyundai Motor America. “Variants of the engine will appear in various Hyundai models.”

That's right, according to Hyundai the new crossover, which integrates the brand's new turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) four-cylinder engine with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) for an awe-inspiring 286-horsepower, will not only sprint away from a stoplight with breathtaking speed, but also return 15 to 20-percent in fuel savings over a conventional 2.0-liter engine.

Lightweight

materials and extremely high-quality interior appointments should result in an impressive mix of high performance, fuel efficiency and luxury.

"The HED-5 i-Mode concept provides a glimpse into the future of travel, incorporating innovative weight-saving technologies, a modern fuel-efficient four-cylinder direct injection turbo, and a flexible interior package," said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America.

The concept also debuts a self-healing (from scratches) environmentally friendly paint, a swivel-seat system that allows the first-row passenger to flip around and visit with those behind, and a minivan-like sliding rear door that opens up a large aperture for easy ingress and egress.

Expected in 2010, the HED-5 i-Mode, or whatever arid American city the car eventually is named after, will go up against Kia's Rondo, the Mazda5 and other small family haulers expected to arrive as this segment continues to grow. The Theta Turbo GDI engine, however, should find home in numerous Hyundai models, such as the Sonata, Santa Fe, and possibly a detuned version will make its way into the Elantra and Tucson. It is expected that Kia will get a version of this engine too.