Hyundai has officially taken the wraps off the next-generation Elantra.
For 2017, the Elantra packs a handful of Sonata and Genesis-inspired design cues inside and out, including a more prominent hexagonal grille treatment and squared-off tail lights. Compared to the outgoing model, the new Elantra is also a touch longer and wider overall.
2017 Hyundai Elantra
Handout, Hyundai
Three engines are available – a normally-aspirated 1.6-litre four-cylinder, a 2.0-litre inline-four good for 147 horsepower and a 1.6-litre diesel. All three engines can be hooked up to either a six-speed manual or automatic, but diesel models can also be had with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. These powertrain details are specific for the Korean market, so expect Elantras destined for North America to differ
Hyundai has also worked to improve the Elantra’s chassis. There’s more high-strength steel under the skin, leading to less weight, better fuel economy and – coupled with redesigned suspension components – better driving dynamics.
2017 Hyundai Elantra
Handout, Hyundai
Inside, the 2017 Elantra gets a cabin layout similar to what we’ve seen from the Genesis, Sonata and Tucson. Materials are improved and there’s more equipment, including the requisite suite of active safety features such as automatic braking, a high-beam assist, a rear cross-traffic alert system and the seemingly industry-standard blind-spot monitor.
The next-gen Elantra is set to go on sale in South Korea later this year, while we’ll have to wait a little longer to see it – as well as any other body styles – in North America.
