Power Wheels Magazine A Notch Above
Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the exclusive distributor of Hyundai cars in the Philippines, previewed the newest model of the all-new Elantra. Named ‘Avante’ in South Korea.
Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0, is highly evident in this sixth generation Elantra. The large hexagonal grille gives the compact sedan an active stance identical with other Hyundai vehicles, common across their lineup of cars. The definitive grille is paired with slim and sporty Projection Headlamps. This exterior design achieves a dynamic precision that completes the contemporary and comfortable car experience.
The new wheel arch design sets the new model apart from all other vehicles on the road. The roof flows back to the trunk almost seamlessly, with the sides left simple, understated lines on the shoulders create an elegant and smooth look. Distinctive tail lights, equipped with Rear Combination Lamps, are arranged in an horizontal line, while the rear bumper completes the balanced design of the All-new Elantra.
In the interior, character lines are placed ergonomically to enable intuitive operation, which mostly inherited from Hyundai’s Sonata and the Genesis. Dashboard buttons are grouped according to functions, the cockpit display is angled 6.9 degrees toward the driver, and soft-touch and high-quality materials are used across the surfaces and rear air conditioner vents are added in the newest model.
To achieve comfort and performance alongside the design, the All-new Elantra is 20mm longer and 5mm wider than the previous- generation. The 16” and 17” alloy wheels make the Elantra a smooth drive on the road.
This new compact sedan from Hyundai will come in three variants. The top-of-the-line L variant uses a Nu 2.0 MPi engine, which puts out 152ps and torque of 192Nm giving it power comparable to the mid-sized segment
The mid-tier S variant has the Gamma 1.6 MPi engine and is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission and the entry-level E variant has the same engine but with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The All-new Elantra is a notch higher from the previous model. Advanced ergonomically designed seats give both driver and passenger better comfort and flexibility during travel. The Smart Key allows for fuss free opening and closing of car doors, while Electric Folding Mirrors with Turn Signal Repeaters are welcome features that make the drive easier and safer by immediately alerting those behind you of your driving intentions.
There are more safety features in the sixth generation model. Dual front airbags, the body structure has also been boosted in terms of durability and rigidity, incorporated with an impressive 53% Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS), 32% higher compared to the previous model, the Rear View Camera makes parking a breeze by giving the driver a clear sight of the rear, with Dynamic Guidelines to direct the driver to the fast and easy way to park, without bumping into obstacles.
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) were also fine-tuned, re-engineered windscreen wipers are carefully positioned to dramatically reduce road and wind noise in the cabin, while the thickened door glass significantly reduces noise penetration.
After the previous-generation Elantra won Car of the Year Philiippines in 2012, HARI seeks to solidify its number 3 ranking among automotive companies in the Philippines—and to capture the compact sedan segment—with the newest generation model. The All-new Elantra is expected to be available in HARI dealerships nationwide in the first quarter of 2016.
With the competitive price to be announced soon, the All-new Elantra will be available in the following variants and colors:
Variants:
a. Elantra 1.6 E 6MT
b. Elantra 1.6 S 6AT
c. Elantra 2.0 L 6AT
Colors:
Marina Blue, Phantom Black, Fiery Red, Platinum Silver and Polar White
Photos by Neil Pagulayan