Hyundai CEO Says i45, Genesis Sedans Coming In For A Makeover: Report

Hyundai will reveal an updated i45 sedan (Sonata overseas) in 2014, the carmaker's CEO has confirmed, along with an update to the Genesis luxury sedan late next year.

Speaking with Reuters, Hyundai CEO King Choong-ho confirmed that the i45 will get its first major upgrade since its 2009 unveiling in South Korea.

Mr Kim did not reveal details of the update. As style leader for the brand, we will likely see the car's front and rear take on elements from Hyundai's new "Storm Edge" design language, previewed by the next-generation Santa Fe SUV.

While the i45 has remained largely unchanged since its 2010 debut, the Korean-market Sonata picked up a minor update last year, including a revised grille and tail-light design, new side mirrors, new optional 18-inch wheels and higher-quality materials in the cabin.

The larger Genesis luxury sedan will also get an update, Mr Kim said, due late next year.

For now, the Genesis is viewed by the carmaker as a range apart from the regular Hyundai family. It is likely that its updated styling will depart from the "Storm Edge" styling.

Hyundai has confirmed that the next-generation Genesis will be manufactured in both right and left-hand-drive; an Australian debut is planned for that model.

Next year's update, however, is likely to be business as usual: left-hand-drive, and no Australian availability.

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