Hyundai Elantra is getting a big update
It’s the 7th generation for the Hyundai sporty sedan. It’s no typical sedan, especially when compared to its predecessor that was unveiled in 2015. This Elantra has doubled down on the ‘sporty’ aspect and went for a “four-door coupé” look according to Hyundai.
The design won’t just stand out in the day, but in the night too.
Before we talk about the obvious, let’s discuss the smaller things. It’s longer, wider, lower and has an increased wheelbase. The one thing it’s not more of is weight. Other than making it sporty, it has actually improved handling and Hyundai have also improved the overall safety too.
Back to the pretty things. This Hyundai really pushes what a sedan is. Lots of and straight edges and triangular shapes that go all the way into a “parametric jewel-pattern” grille. The indicators are integrated into that massive grill too. Looking at the back, there is a long horizontal taillamp that extends from one side to the other.
The insides are updated too.
Inside we will experience what Hyundai calls an “immersive cocoon” which was made to make you feel like you’re in an airplane cockpit. Inside that cockpit is also a really neat looking infotainment system and digital driver’s display. Both screens are 10-inches and come equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It talks to you too boasting a very natural voice recognition system.
It also comes with bird’s-eye view navigation, dual Bluetooth connectivity and wireless smartphone mirroring. From the infotainment, you can also change the mood lighting. Even with all the fancy tech, Hyundai has kept some key physical buttons on the Elantra for what looks like air conditioning and volume, one thing I’m not the biggest fan of though is the big automatic gearstick. I shouldn’t need to call it a gear stick on an automatic because they don’t need one.
So, it looks good, but what can we expect for performance?
It comes with a 2-litre petrol engine that gives 11 kW and 179 Nm. This all comes through the intelligent CVT transmission that gives you better fuel economy. However, if the economy is what you really want, wait a little longer after launch and you will have the option of a hybrid. That Elantra will has a 1.6-litre petrol engine that gives 104 kW and 264 Nm of torque and a 32 kW electric motor powered by a 1.32 kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery. It also gets a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.
This sedan also gets several extra safety features like forward collision-avoidance assist and high-beam assists. There is also an option for a smartphone-based digital key if you hate keys.
We don’t know when it will come.
While scheduled to begin production later this year, we don’t know when it will arrive on South African shores. Pricing and model grades are also not confirmed, however, if the features we have been shown come standard or one tier up, I would be very excited.
Source: CARmag | Jalopnik
