Monday, 27 October 2008

Hyundai "PO" crossover spied






















Our previous mystery car turned out to be Hyundai's all-new crossover, dubbed Portico. Following an article about Hyundai's forthcoming MPV's, the Portico crossover is likely to rival the Mercedes R-Class and Dodge Journey.

Flexible seating for the Portico means two rows of seating for 4 or 6 depending if the centre seat is folded down or upright. With six passengers in two rows - the Portico will offer more cargo area than similarly sized vehicles.

Hyundai's Lambda 3.3 litre V6, used in the Grandeur/Azera and Sonata is expected to produce around 240bhp. In 3.8 litre V6 form, 290bhp should provide ample motivation for the top of the Portico trim range. Hyundai's new 6-speed shiftronic transmission will route the power to a FWD or AWD setup. A hybrid and 4-cylinder powerplants are unknown despite earlier reports. While the Portico was slated to be built in Alabama, production has now shifted to Korea and will start in the 3rd quarter of 2009.

The new Portico will slot below the Veracruz but above the Santa Fe in terms of pricing. Like the Entourage and Genesis sedan and coupe, this is isn't likely to go on sale in Europe. However, if it does arrive, expect Hyundai's newly developed, single turbocharged "R" 2.2 litre CRDi engine to be used in 2010.

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