Hyundai has confirmed that its 2011 entry into the European D-segment will be called the i40.

The model, set to make its international debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, has been designed at the Korean manufacturer’s European research and development centre in Germany, specifically to appeal to a European audience.

Boasting Hyundai’s latest green technologies under the Blue Drive banner, the company claims the i40 will demonstrate best-in-class fuel economy and very low CO2 emissions.

The i40 will initially be available as an estate model, with a saloon version following the same sleek, “fluidic design” philosophy arriving shortly after.

Allan Rushforth of Hyundai Motor Europe said: “We have bold ambitions for Hyundai in Europe, and the new i40 will provide the momentum we need to achieve our goals in 2011 and beyond.”