Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hyundai chooses to present its latest updated lineup through an online event. The car that took the center stage was the new Hyundai Elantra which will be available later this year. The Hyundai Elantra 2021 will begin production this fall while the sales will begin in the fourth quarter.
The Hyundai Elantra 2021 which is also referred to in the i30 Sedan in some markets such as Australia adopts a new design language called Sensuous Sportiness. Beyond the reach of marketing, this product produces a style that packed more character than its predecessor.
As expected, the model followed in the footsteps of the Sonata and adopted a wide grille parametric jewel pattern. The turn signals are integrated into the grille and are next to the corner lights.
The edgy front end provides long bonnet and slimmer bodywork. The latter displays a prominent character line that is echoed by the belt line up.
The roof looks more dynamic as Hyundai adds black accents to the rear window to enhance the coupe-like appearance. Elsewhere, there are integrated rear spoilers and typical ‘H-Tail taillights.
Compared to its predecessor, the 2021 Elantra is 2.2 inches (56 mm) longer, 1 inch (25 mm) wider, and 0.8 inches (20 mm) lower. The wheelbase also grew 0.8 inches (20 mm) to 107.1 inches (2.720 mm) overall.
Inside, the designer adopts a cocoon-style idea that wraps the driver like an airplane cockpit. The all-new Hyundai Elantra is more high-tech because it is equipped with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and an optional 10.25-inch infotainment system.
It also supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless which is the first for this segment. The car is also equipped with a wireless smartphone charger, Bose audio system, and Digital Lock that allows the Elantra to be opened, started and driven through an Android smartphone or NFC card.
Under the hood, the driver will find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS) and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque. The engine is connected to the intelligent variable transmission which is the CVT version of Hyundai.
Hyundai claims that the gearbox has a new shift control strategy that increases linearity between driver input, vehicle behavior, and acceleration. The carmaker also expects an improved fuel efficiency which will give Elantra the best fuel economy rating in its class.
Among other changes are an optimized steering system and a new suspension mounting structure for more responsive handling. Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, High Beam Assist, and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines are present to complement this car’s security system.
Customers can also order more sophisticated driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist.
The big news for the 2021 model is the addition of an all-new hybrid variant. The car features a 1.6 liter Atkinson GDI four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a 1.32 kWh lithium-ion battery that is placed under the rear seat. The arrangement gives the car a combined output of up to 139 hp (104 kW / 141 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque.
The engine is connected to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission that promises to provide a ‘dynamic and exciting driving experience’.
