2017 Hyundai Elantra First Look Review

Hyundai revealed the sixth-generation Elantra sedan for the U.S. market at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show this week. In addition to its slightly larger size, the redesigned 2017 Hyundai Elantra features new powertrain options to help it challenge sales leaders including the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.

The 2017 Elantra’s base powertrain for the SE and Limited trims is a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle I-4 engine rated 147 hp at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. Hyundai says the 2.0-liter engine is the only Atkinson engine with multi-port injection in the compact segment. The compression ratio is set at 12.5:1, and Hyundai anticipates a fuel economy rating of 29/38/33 city/highway/combined for that engine when paired with a six-speed automatic; a six-speed manual will be available on the SE.

The 2017 Elantra Eco features an all-new 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 128 hp at 5,550 rpm and 156 lb-ft from 1,400-3,700 rpm. The turbo engine is backed by an seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and Hyundai estimates a 35-mpg combined rating.

Up front, the redesigned Elantra features the automaker’s signature hexagonal grille flanked by available adaptive HID headlights with new LED daytime running lights. The lower fascia features new front wheel air curtains to direct airflow around the wheels. Additional aerodynamic bits include underbody covers, under spoiler on the rear fascia, and rear decklid shape. It all contributes toward a claimed 0.27 coefficient of drag. A bold character line runs along the body just below the greenhouse, and the rear C-pillar kicks up similar to the larger Genesis. Available features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED door handle approach lights, and LED taillights.

Inside the redesigned interior, features include a 4.2-inch color TFT LCD instrument display, memory driver seat and side mirrors, dual automatic temperature control with auto defogging system, and auto-dimming rearview mirror. The seats are said to be more ergonomic for more comfort and less driving fatigue. Cloth seats are standard, while leather is available, and as with the outgoing car, heated front and rear seats are available.

The 2017 Elantra is made with more high-strength steel (53 percent), which increases chassis rigidity (29.5-percent stiffer torsional rigidity and 25.3-percent greater bending strength), helps improve NVH, and reduces overall weight, according to Hyundai. The suspension has been redesigned for improved ride comfort, handling, and stability.

The redesigned 2017 Hyundai Elantra is expected to receive better crash test ratings, and is available with more advanced safety tech including Automatic Emergency Braking Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist, and new dynamic guidance for the rearview camera.

New convenience tech includes a hands-free Smart Trunk that opens when approaching the rear of the vehicle, adaptive cruise control, and High-Beam Assist. The infotainment system is available with a 7-inch touchscreen or an 8-inch navigation system. Android Auto is standard on both systems. An eight-speaker Infinity premium audio system is now available.

The last-gen Elantra debuted with styling that was radical for its time, but will the new model move the needle as much? We’re looking forward to driving it and comparing it against the rest of the compact class.

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