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Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept sets new design direction at Geneva

Hyundai revealed its Le Fil Rouge concept at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, signalling the start of a new “Sensuous Sportiness” design era for its future models.

By Chris Wilson Updated
Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show
Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show Matti Blume / CC BY-SA 4.0

Hyundai introduced its Le Fil Rouge concept at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, presenting a new design language that the company calls “Sensuous Sportiness”. The concept, a large luxury saloon, previews the styling direction that Hyundai intends for its future production models.

The Le Fil Rouge, French for “common thread”, is not a production car but a styling study. Its proportions and details mark a notable departure from Hyundai’s current range. The concept’s long wheelbase, short overhangs and low roofline give it a coupe-like profile, while the wide stance and sweeping lines signal a move towards more emotional and dynamic forms. Although Hyundai’s recently launched Kona, Santa Fe and Nexo models had already shifted the brand’s look, the company says all future models will now follow the Le Fil Rouge’s design principles.

Interior and features

Inside, the concept features a four-seat layout with a wide panoramic display stretching across the dashboard. The centre console bridges the cabin, separating left and right spaces, and the doors are rear-hinged at the back. Materials include wood veneer, and the car retains a conventional steering wheel and pedals, underlining its status as a design study rather than a vision of autonomous driving.

Hyundai’s design direction

The Le Fil Rouge concept signals a new phase for Hyundai’s styling, with the “Sensuous Sportiness” theme aimed at creating a more unified and expressive identity across its line-up. The company describes this approach as balancing emotional value with innovative solutions in proportion, architecture, styling and technology. While the show car’s luxury saloon format would fit the Genesis brand, Hyundai intends the new design cues to influence its mainstream models as well.

  • Long wheelbase and coupe-like silhouette
  • Full-width panoramic dashboard display
  • Rear-hinged back doors
  • Four-seat interior with wood veneer

Hyundai has not confirmed if the Le Fil Rouge will lead directly to a production car, but its design language will shape the next generation of models. For context on previous Hyundai concepts at Geneva, seeHyundai previews i-oniq concept ahead of 2012 Geneva show

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