[citation needed] The i40 is described as featuring Hyundai's 'fluidic sculpture' design language, and was launched in Europe initially as an estate/wagon (marketed as the i40 Tourer) with a saloon was due in 2011.

For Malaysia, Hyundai launched the i40 at the 2013 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show, in both sedan and tourer specifications.

[9] Due to slowing sales of mid-sized cars worldwide, the i40 was discontinued in markets such as Australia and New Zealand in early 2019, leaving the Sonata to cater for the segment.

[11] A 'BlueDrive' option includes Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) start-stop system and 16 inch rolling resistance tyres, resulting in a reduced CO2 of 113g/km for the 114 bhp (85 kW; 116 PS) diesel.

Euro NCAP test results for a LHD, five door hatchback variant on a registration from 2011: Hyundai Motor supplied the i40 estate for use in the 2011 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.