KOREAN heavywight Hyundai has lifted the wraps from a raft of new models at the Geneva Motor Show, led by the world premiere of its latest generation Tucson.

The SUV took centre stage on the company's stand and was joined by stablemates like the new ix20 compact MPV and new generation i20 Coupe plus the latest i30 and i40 models.

And the brand also highlighted fresh technology with a pair of Tucson fuel efficiency concepts - a 48V Hybrid and a Plug-in-Hybrid version - as well as a future connectivity cockpit concept.

With more than a million SUVs already delivered to European customers, Hyundai sees the Tucson as a vehicle of immense importance to the brand.

It certainly looks the part too, its front dominated by the company's hexagonal front grille connecting to the LED headlamps, while a ‘Z' character line above the rear wheel arches creates a powerful stance.

Built on a completely new platform, the Hyundai offers greater cabin space and 513 litres of luggage capacity, and buyers can enjoy new soft-touch materials.

Safety features include active electronic driving aids like an autonomous emergency braking system, lane keeping assist, rear traffic cross alert, blind spot detection and speed limit info.

With a chassis developed for European drivers, the focus is on ride comfort without compromising driving dynamics.

Engines comprise a new turbocharged 175PS 1.6-litre T-GDI petrol unit with six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, plus a 132PS 1.6-litre GDI and three diesels - 115PS 1.7-litre, 136PS 2.0-litre or 186PS 2.0-litre.

Fresh design and new technologies are also hallmarks of the new Hyundai ix20 supermini, which will be available with petrol or diesel engines ranging from 77 to 128PS and a six-speed automatic transmission for the 1.6-litre petrol unit.