I’ve had a soft spot for the Hyundai Elantra for many years. In fact, the very first story on The Auto Loons website is about the new Elantra that had been launched in India in 2016. A facelift of the same was launched in October 2019 but this blog looks beyond the local market. Hyundai launched the all-new Elantra in the USA and it looks even better than before!
It’s the 7th generation Elantra and it’s based on a new platform that can accommodate a hybrid powertrain and offers a longer wheelbase too. This sedan also features Hyundai’s current ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design language for that wide, sporty appearance. Its got a new angry-grille that features a ‘parametric-jewel-pattern’ that flows seamlessly into the new anime-styled wraparound headlamps. The front lip spoiler and fog lamps stick out like the chiselled jawline of an action star. It’s a strong look. The jewel-effect continues in the character lines of the new Elantra’s side profile.
The rear design of the new Hyundai Elantra looks like it could transform to reveal MIB jet thrusters. It has the light strip running across the width of the car and integrates into the taillamps and creates a long H-Taillamp. The boot lip design and rear bumper are also gem-shaped which makes it look muscley. Overall, the sleeker roofline makes the Elantra look sportier too.
Hyundai’s new cabin layout looks premium but boring. It has an all-black theme with nice leatherette upholstery. The central console off seems cut off from the passenger side for a driver-centric feel. There’s even a grab-handle integrated into the passenger side of the central console.
The steering wheel design is an odd choice. It is still round-shaped, has two spokes at 90-degrees of the central horn bit but gets new grab-handle design parallel to those spokes. By giving that design a contrast silver finish, it makes the design seem airplane inspired.
It has a Mercedes-like digital display setup with the 10.25-inch instrument cluster housed next to the 10.25-inch infotainment system in one single panel. The sleek AC vents are positioned below the central touchscreen display for a clean dashboard design. Its got plenty of clever features fitting for its price point including casual voice commands for climate controls or use Bluelink connected tech to ask about stuff like locations and event timings. The new Elantra also gives the option for a digital key using Hyundai’s phone app which can be shared securely with family and friends.
Hyundai has introduced a hybrid powertrain to the new-gen Elantra. It’s a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 32kW electric motor that is juiced by a 1.32kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery pack positioned under the rear bench. The total output of this hybrid setup is set at a measly 139hp and 264Nm while mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The Elantra Hybrid claims an estimated fuel economy of more than 21kmpl. Hyundai will also be offering the new Elantra with a 2.0-litre petrol engine mated to a CVT auto which makes 147hp and 179Nm. But there is some good news from the engine department for the new Elantra. Hyundai will be making an N-Line variant which could get a turbocharged engine for over 200hp of performance.
While my dream car garage will be filled with an M5, an RS6, a Mustang and an Italian of some sort… the Elantra has been a more realistic garage goal for me. This new one makes me want one just as much as always. What do you think of the new Hyundai Elantra? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to subscribe to The Auto Loons for more cool updates from the car world.
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