We had an inkling that the new Hyundai Coupé would debut at the Paris Motor Show and here it is in all its facelifted glory.

The Hyundai Coupé has always represented good value for money along with a surprisingly sporty drive. To keep the car fresh in buyers' minds, Hyundai has constantly tweaked the styling, with mixed results. The latest refresh is a little unusual, but the overall effect is at least more up to date shape.

At a glance, you'd be forgiven for thinking that the car in Paris is just a facelift, but we reckon that most body panels have been changed. The rear view is not too dissimilar to the outgoing car's, but you'll notice that the bumper and rear hatch are more sculpted to complement the more modern exhaust shape and the stylised rear lights. The Coupé's trademark rear haunches remain, though the new car has softer side detailing.

The most obvious change is to the car's face. We love the sleek new lights, but the jury's out on the shaping of the front bumper and the small air vent above the bumper. Perhaps the high, blunt front end is a result of having to conform to pedestrian protection legislation. We'll see if it looks better away from the glare of the motorshow lighting later in the year when we get to drive the new car in Britain.

Shane O' Donoghue - 5 Oct 2006