Detroit motor show 2011 - Hyundai Curb

One of the most intriguing concept cars at the Detroit motor show is this, the Hyundai Curb, a Nissan Juke-style crossover.

Designed in Hyundai’ California office, it marks yet another potential niche the manufacturer could move into in its quest to grow sales.

Its styling is reminiscent of the flamboyant Nissan Qazana concept, which became the Juke. Expect it to be similarly toned down, and on smaller wheels than the concept's 22-inch designs, when it makes production.

Some of the flourishes that you can expect to be dropped include individual bucket seats and small, rear-hinged rear doors, which look great but aren’t practical and which are probably too expensive for mainstream production.

The Curb has been designed to draw younger buyers into Hyundai, both with its edgy styling and technology-laden interior, including the new Hyundai Blue Link connectivity system that will go into production with the Veloster. The system includes voice text messaging and social media-linking so that, for instance, the sat-nav can link with Facebook and tell friends where you are at the touch of a button.

The Curb concept is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine, and has a large boot. It is designed primarily for urban use.