Some features of the Sonata-inspired Elantra are copied by the Elantra.
Hyundai is busy these days. The company recently updated its lineup with more crossovers and then introduced the new 2020 Hyundai Sonata. Now, it is introducing the 2021 Hyundai Elantra compact sedan. The new Elantra stands out among a segment that is full of iconic options such as the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.
Even though customers are switching to smaller crossovers like the Venue, Hyundai still believes there is a demand for its best-selling sedans. Hyundai has added a few new features and technology to the Elantra, which was previously reserved for more expensive vehicles. This is in an effort to expand its customer reach. These include standard wireless CarPlay, Android Auto and dual 10.3-inch displays and the Elantra Hybrid’s first model. The changes begin with a more sleek design.
New Platform and New Look
Many consider the 2020 model a degraded in terms of looks. Hyundai has restored what was once with the Elantra. Hyundai has replaced the old car’s stubby, pointy looks with a sleeker, more elegant design that is partially inspired by the Sonata.
The Elantra’s new platform, which extends the wheelbase almost an inch and increases its overall length by 2 inches, makes this possible. The Elantra’s new design is wider and more compact, with a shorter overhang at the front to transform its appearance. Hyundai claims the new Elantra achieves a “four door coupe aesthetic.” This is a vague term but it speaks to its sleeker appearance. We consider the changes in body lines and lighting design to be a significant improvement.
The new Elantra, even with its coupe-like roof and lower seating position, matches the rear and front headrooms of the current car. With 42.3 inches of legroom in front and 38 inches at the rear, the Elantra is class-leading.
Technology is changing:
The technology department is where the Elantra makes the most significant leap. It offers many new features. Base models are equipped with an 8.0 inch touchscreen and standard wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto. This is a first in the segment. The upgraded models come with a 10.3-inch touchscreen and an identically sized digital gauge cluster. These two displays are under one glass and can be configured in multiple ways. They also support Bluetooth connectivity to two smartphones at once. This is a major departure from the current car and looks moderner than any of its rivals.
The new infotainment system includes an enhanced range of safety equipment, including standard automatic emergency brake, lane-keep assistance, and a driver attention monitoring system. Blind-spot monitoring is available as an optional kit. The digital key technology of the Sonata is also implemented in the Elantra, which allows you to control many functions of your car from your smartphone.
Hybrid option offers more power
Hyundai will be offering an Elantra Hybrid hybrid for the first-time. This is the headline in the powertrain department. The Elantra Hybrid features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. It produces 139 horsepower (104 Kilowatts) as well as a powerful 195 pound-feet (264 Newton-meters). Hyundai expects that the Elantra Hybrid will get more than 50 MPG combined, which is comparable to cars like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Honda Insight.
The non-hybrid model remains largely unchanged with SE, SE and SEL models keeping the 2.0-liter inline-4 and continuously variable transmission. The 2020 model has 147 horsepower (110 kilowatts) while the 2020 model has 132 lbft of torque (173 Newton-meters). Although it is not confirmed yet, we can expect a N-Line variant with more power in the future.
Coming Soon
We are currently unaware of pricing information for the Elantra 2021 and Elantra hybrid. Hyundai intends to begin building the new Elantras at its Alabama manufacturing plant and in Korea in the autumn of this year. It remains to be seen if production delays resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic affect the new Elantra. The new Elantra, even if it arrives later than expected, should not only boost the segment but also up the technology and push the styling envelope.