Hyundai Motor on Wednesday debuted its first China-only model, the Mingtu sedan, as part of its efforts to increase its presence in the all-important market, especially the soaring midsize sedan segment.

Some 800 guests crowded the high-profile launching event held at Canton Tower in Guangzhou. The name Mingtu, or Mistra in English, originated from a Chinese phrase meaning a “strong will and brighter future,” the company said.

Positioned between Hyundai’s Sonata and Avante sedans, the Mingtu will join the highly-competitive midsize sedan market in China, which has seen more than 30 percent growth over the past year.

Hyundai said it started developing the car for Chinese customers exclusively from the beginning. The concept model, which was unveiled during the Shanghai motor show in April, had gained keen interest from the Chinese media.

“The Mingtu, armed with sophisticated styling and product quality, is a strategic car that will elevate Hyundai’s brand awareness,” said Choi Sung-kee, president of Beijing Hyundai Motor Co. “We will renew the midsize sedan competition here.”

The sporty saloon, while embracing Hyundai’s signature “fluidic” look overall, gets bolder styling, consisting of a wider radiator grille and longer hood, to appeal to Chinese customers.

The car is also stuffed with the highest-level premium features among same segment cars such as a panoramic sunroof, a driver’s seat that can be heated or cooled, daytime running lights and a rear air ventilation system.

Two engines, a 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter, are available, with their fuel economy estimated at 13.7 and 13.3 kilometers per liter, respectively. Hyundai aims to sell more than 100,000 Mingtu cars per year.

By Lee Ji-yoon (jylee@heraldcorp.com)