Hyundai sports car plans put on hold

Hyundai is understood to have put the development of a sportscar based on the 2014 PassoCorto concept on hold. According to Hyundai UK boss, Tony Whitehorn, the company is only studying the market for a possible business opportunity, and is not developing a car yet.

Ex-Hyundai Europe chief, Allan Rushforth, had said that the company was looking to develop a sportscar model based on the PassoCorto concept showcased at the Geneva motor show in 2014. However, since his departure to Nissan, the idea seems to have been sidelined.

Currently, Hyundai seems to be favouring the hatchback segment with the company developing hotter versions of its existing hatchbacks sold internationally with the move culminating with the launch of the company’s new N performance division with the launch of the i30 N hot hatchback in 2017.

Speaking on the topic, Whitehorn said “Not many people make money out of sportscars. The sportscar market is shrinking dramatically, and even firms with heritage and a great product are struggling. Aside from the Audi TT and Mazda MX-5, it is a tough place to be”.