Hyundai reveals dramatic HND-9 concept in Seoul

While much of the auto industry plods around New York this week, Hyundai decided to give its hometown Seoul auto show a dash of excitement with an all-new concept. Called the HND-9 Venace, Hyundai says the dramatic two-door coupe portends the metal fashions Hyundai will use on its future models. That wouldn't be such a bad thing.

On its own, the HND-9 seems closer to a modern update of the Huyndai Genesis coupe than a pure auto show fantasy. About the size of a Ford Mustang, the rear-wheel-drive sports car has a 3.3-liter turbo V-6 under its hood producing 365 hp. The lack of side mirrors, scissor-style doors and a steering wheel that resembles a Buck Rodgers prop all look like masks for the car's production intent.

Hyundai and its twin Kia have been the world's fastest-growing automakers of the past few years, but the easy paths to success have all been explored. For Hyundai to keep growing, it has to go where it hasn't been before — into luxury cars, larger SUVs and sports coupes, and into cars that offer more panache than its current lineup. The HND-9 looks ready for the assignment.