The i40 is a family car that is considered to share many of the same characteristics as the popular Hyundai Sonata. However, the i40 is not marketed in certain parts of the world such as the United States. This large sedan was first released in Europe and South Korea in the latter half of 2011 and it is now also available in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.
Outwardly, the i40 shares many of the design characteristics of the Sonata; particularly in its use of flowing curves and its overall streamlined appearance. However, the vehicle itself offers considerably more interior room than the Sonata and this is even more apparent when the rear seats are folded down to offer yet more space.
There is also a choice of which engine a driver desires. Both diesel and petrol models are available; either option boasting a respectable efficiency rating. However, one of the most notable features of the 2011 generation of i40 is that all engines offer the driver what is known as a "start-stop" system. In essence, this will stop the engine when it is idling for long periods of time (such as in city traffic). This is seen to reduce fuel consumption as well as helping to protect the environment.
The i40 has already proven itself to be quite popular in numerous markets across the globe and it has even won the prestigious Eurocarbody Golden Award in 2011. Therefore, this family-sized car is expected to remain one of the most dominant models released by Hyundai into the future.