Next generation Hyundai Elantra aims high

2016-hyundai-elantra-front-quarter

Hyundai has today unveiled the sixth generation Elantra, the brand’s stylish small sedan that promises advanced features, improved comfort and more fuel efficient.

Set to launch in Australia in early 2016, the new Elantra is 20mm longer and 25mm wider than the before, liberating extra cabin space that Hyundai claims is “comparable with that of the segment above”.

Adopting the brand’s new family look, the new model sports larger hexagonal grille, flanked by slender headlights, while the slimline tail-lights are reminiscent of the Genesis luxury sedan.

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Hyundai claims the new interior is quieter and has been designed with focus on ergonomics, with soft-touch and high-quality materials introduced across the cabin surfaces. The cockpit display is angled 6.9 degrees towards the driver with an intuitive layout, while aesthetic enhancements within the crash pad and center fascia are designed to appeal to a wider range of customers.

The new car also takes a leap forward with a suite of convenience and safety features. An Integrated Memory Seat (IMS) enhances driver comfort, while powered-boot allows easy loading as it opens automatically when the Smart key-holder approaches. In addition, new class-leading suite of safety technologies include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), High Beam Assist (HBA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

2016-hyundai-elantra-interior

In its native South Korea, the Elantra will be offered with a choice of three four-cylinder engines, including a 97kW/161Nm 1.6-litre petrol engine, a 100kW/300Nm 1.6-litre turbo diesel, and a 110kW/179Nm 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine. Drivetrain options include six-speed automatic, six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Hyundai says the new model boasts improved performance, with useable low and mid-range torque for better driveability. Australian specification is still being finalised and will be announced closer to local launch.

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The new Elantra also gains improvement in ride and handling, thanks to new suspension comprising a MacPherson strut design up front and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear. In addition to new shock absorbers and springs, the new car’s body structure has also been made more rigid, incorporating 32 per cent more high-strength steel compared to the outgoing model.

The 2016 Hyundai Elantra will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

2016-hyundai-elantra-front

 

 

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