Designed and engineered at Hyundai’s European R&D headquarters, the new 40 brings styling changes including a redesigned front grille and front bumper, along with reshaped front and rear lights.

Just one diesel engine is offered for both saloon and tourer models – a 1.7-litre diesel with an output of 113bhp or 139bhp. The engine comes as standard with a six-speed manual transmission but a new seven-speed DCT auto is available as an option on the higher-powered variant. CO2 emissions start from 110g/km.

Prices start at £19,600 for the entry-level S trim on the i40 saloon, which includes standard features such as: 16-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, leather wrapped steering wheel, automatic headlights with dusk sensor and steering wheel audio with telephone controls.

The range also sees the introduction of the SE Nav trim level, which builds on the S trim level with standard features including Hyundai’s touchscreen satellite navigation with rear view parking camera and parking guidance system. Priced from £21,600, the SE Nav also adds DAB radio, auto dimming rear view mirror, climate control with auto defog, heated front seats, LED front fog lights and a seven speaker sounds system. This trim level can be enhanced further in the SE Nav Business model, from £23,100, with keyless smart entry with start/stop button and driver’s seat memory function.

The range-topping Premium models, which start at £25,600, feature 18-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof with electric tilt and slide, luggage net, super vision instrument cluster with LCD colour display and lane departure warning.

Tony Whitehorn, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor UK, commented: “The introduction of New i40 Tourer and Saloon means that the Hyundai range now has a fresher and more dynamic look, with changes aimed to appeal particularly to the requirements of our fleet customers. The addition of the SE Nav as a new trim level provides a clear differentiator from the traditional SE models and identifies the standardisation of our highly capable navigation system.”

The new i40 is available to order at Hyundai showrooms across the UK now.