Subcompact Concept Sports Big-Time Features
Hyundai's Accent is great little car, especially in top-of-the-line GSi trim. It's quick, handles pretty well and features better than average build quality. But all cars have a shelf life, and the Korean brand's smallest North American entry is getting close to its due date.
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| Korean automaker Hyundai has pulled back the cover on what may become its future generation subcompact, now dubbed E³. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada) |
Hyundai's E³ (E-Cubed) concept, recently unveiled in Geneva, has been designed to showcase the South Korean automaker's future generation subcompact. While such cars are often ignored when passed by on the road, the E Cubed concept offers the possibility of greater distinction in the needs driven segment.
Destined to be the successor to the current Accent? That remains to be seen, but when the replacement date comes in 2006 something similar will most likely make the attractively priced model even more enticing.
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| The E³ could very well be similar to the car that replaces the current Accent in 2006. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada) |
For the time being, the concept provides the best window as to what the future car might look like. The 4.15 meter (13.6 ft) long concept with a 2.65 meter (8.7 ft) wheelbase takes on a generic 3-door shape, but it has its own distinctive details. The E³ features transparent panoramic roof which allows sunlight to stream in, while its two doors at each side create an optical illusion. They appear to be one unit with one door handle, however in actuality they form a combination of front and rear hinged doors like as in Saturn's ION Quad Coupe or Mazda's RX-8. Cameras take the place of side- and rear-view mirrors on the E³, which help to contribute to its sleek appearance.
LEDs, which have been smoothly integrated into the front and rear end, form the head and taillights for Hyundai's new concept. As a tribute to outdoor enthusiasts, Hyundai has also added a fold-away, integrated bicycle carrier.