Hyundai i40 Facelift Revealed with 7-Speed Twin-Clutch Gearbox

The facelift i40 will be offered with a short range of Euro 6 diesel engines. The base unit is a 1.7-liter making 115 hp (85 kW) and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft), joined by a slightly more powerful version of the same block with 141 hp (104 kW) and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft), which is marginally more than the old model. Now, those are by no means groundbreaking numbers, but most midsize sedan buyers don't need any more than that to get about.

What's really interesting is that the i40 seems to be the first European Hyundai model to get the new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that provides improved fuel efficiency. We don't need to remind you that the Volkswagen Passat has been offering DSG options for many years and they are an important part of the German arsenal.

Speaking of Volkswagen technologies, Hyundai now also has one of those brake assist systems that emulate a limited slip differential by applying a dab of brake force to the inside wheel while cornering. The system on the i40 is called Advanced Traction Cornering Control (ATCC).

Refined looks

Hyundai has also added new safety technologies, including the Smart High Beam (SHB) system, which monitors approaching traffic and automatically turns off the high beam if you have it on. It's sort of like adaptive LEDs, but much more basic. The i40 is also available with Speed Limit Identification Function system that checks roadside signs and displays the current speed limit in front of the drive, a feature first introduced in the compact segment by the Golf in 2012 (the Phaeton had it for a number of years, as did the E-Class and larger Mercs).

Cosmetically speaking, the i40 was always a nice looking but subtle machine, unlike its sister model the Kia Optima. For the 2015 model year, this European flagship features a more prominent trapezoidal grille, LED daytime running lights and fog lights. The interior has been de-cluttered and boasts a new TFT display on the instrument panel and navigation screen.