Korean automakers set to show off at Paris exhibition

Korean automakers will showcase new vehicles and high-end concept cars at an upcoming Paris motor show in a bid to strengthen their presence in Europe, companies said Tuesday.

Hyundai Motor Co., the country's largest car manufacturer, said it will display 24 models at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which opens Saturday.

Its new i30 three-door will make its debut at Paris, with a reshaped rear bumper and revised fog lamps, said Hyundai. Its i-Oniq concept car, unveiled at a motor show in Geneva in March, will be also exhibited in Paris, along with the hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle ix35.

Hyundai's smaller affiliate Kia Motors Corp. will present 32 cars in Paris.

Kia said six new cars will be premiered at the auto show, including a revamped three-door model of its popular Cee'd hatchback. An electric version of the Ray, a box-type mini car, will also be shown at Paris.

GM Korea Co., the local unit of U.S. General Motors Co., said it will unveil its new Chevrolet Trax mini sports utility vehicle (SUV) at the auto show for the first time.

Ssangyong Motor Co., Korea's smallest carmaker, said it will exhibit seven vehicles including its e-XIV electric concept car.

The Paris Motor Show runs through Oct. 14 under the theme of "The Future, Now," featuring more than 100 releases of global carmakers. (Yonhap)