The new-generation Hyundai Elantra has been unveiled at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show. The same vehicle might also come to India as well sometime next year, albeit with a different set of engines.
Though the US-spec model looks more or less similar to the Korean model, the former looks slightly different with a few changes such as chrome elements on hexagonal grille, vertically-shaped LED daytime running lamps, etc. Other interesting elements upfront are HID headlamps with ‘Dynamic Bending Lights’, all new bumper, and the Sonata Hybrid-inspired functional front wheel air curtains on the lower front fascia.
The vehicle’s side and rear profile too look quite attractive with features such as sweeping side window silhouette, 17-inch alloy wheels, all-new LED door handles, LED indicators and LED tail-lamps with high tech graphics. The new Hyundai Elantra’s length has been increased by just 20mm, while the width is 25mm more.
Though the all-new Hyundai Elantra is lighter than the outgoing model, it gets stiffer chassis reinforced with 53 per cent advanced high-strength steel compared to the 21 per cent from the previous model. The company says that the increased utilization results in a 29.5 per cent stiffer torsional rigidity and 25.3 per cent greater bending strength that also improve the vehicle’s ride and handling, durability and driving performance.
Besides change in design, the US-spec model also gets an all-new 1.4-litre T-GDI petrol engine that, mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox, develops 128bhp and 211Nm. There is a 2.0-litre naturally-aspired petrol engine as well offered with two transmission options – a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. This engine churns out 147bhp and 179Nm.
Upon its launch in India, the vehicle might continue to feature the existing set of engines – a 1.8-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel. Though the company might tune these engines for better performance.
