Hyundai UV concept teased

Just when you thought Hyundai couldn’t release any more SUVs, the UV Concept busts out.

Making its global premiere at the 2019 Los Angeles motor show on November 20, the new model has been teased via a couple of shadowy images.

The sporty-looking number will incorporate a plug-in hybrid EV tech (PHEV), a blend of petrol and electric powertrains.

The Hyundai UV Concept also shows off a curious multifaceted surfacing at the front end that could hint its 'UV' name.

The front grille becomes a solid surface when stationary and when in motion the individual facets "move in a prescribed sequence," says Hyundai, which can improve aerodynamics. Many brands such as BMW already offer dynamic grille systems.

If the Hyundai UV Concept makes the jump from concept to reality, it will add another model to Hyundai's already significant SUV portfolio.

Currently Hyundai sells the Venue, Kona and Kona Electric models in Australia, along with the medium-sized Tucson and Nexo hydrogen-powered fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV), plus the large seven-seat Santa Fe SUVs.

The Korean brand will also import the new Hyundai Palisade eight-seat flagship SUV to Australia in late 2020, followed by an even bigger and more rugged 4WD to rival the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series.

The brand also has plans for high-performance plans with a Kona N on the cards.

It's not clear where the new UV Concept would slot into the very busy Hyundai SUV line-up – possibly between the Kona small and Tucson medium models – but at the very least it provides insights into the brand's evolving design language, dubbed 'Sensuous Sportiness'.

"We pursue innovative solutions in design and add emotional value to our product experience through sensuous sportiness design language," said SangYup Lee, the big chief at Hyundai's global design centre.