First look: Hyundai unveils Entourage

IF you think the 2007 Hyundai Entourage minivan looks suspiciously like a Kia Grand Carnival then you’re right as these two Koreans merged in 1999.

Like the Grand Carnival, the Entourage - which debuted at this month's Chicago motor show - features a front-wheel drive 178kW/340Nm 3.8-litre V6 mated to a sequential five-speed automatic.

Similarly, it shares the Carnival’s impressive safety levels with electronic stability control standard, ABS, tyre pressure monitoring system, as well as dual front, side and curtain airbags.

The versatile luggage area uses a 60/40 fold-flat third-row seat and space for up to seven passengers, dual rear sliding doors with power windows, foldaway centre tray tables.

Dual front and rear climate control systems, folding rear view mirrors, rear-seat DVD system, tilt-steering wheel and power adjustable pedals are also available.

Except for badges, the Entourage looks similar to the Grand Carnival and it adopts the same four-wheel independent suspension system with MacPherson struts upfront and rear multi-link design at the rear.

The chances a good that Entourage will replace the Trajet here later this year.