Refreshing or Revolting: 2017 Hyundai Elantra

All new for the 2017 model year, the sixth-generation Hyundai Elantra was revealed at the 2015 Los Angeles auto show last month. Sporting an evolutionary styling direction, the 2017 Elantra remains recognizable from every angle, but will the new car make people’s heads turn like its predecessor?

Featuring a trapezoidal grille up front flanked by LED daytime running lights and reshaped headlights, the 2017 Elantra’s front fascia immediately lets you know that its new design language is evolutionary, not revolutionary. The change to the large trapezoidal grille gives the car more presence, which is amplified at night by the daytime running lights and HID headlights on higher trim levels. At the rear, the evolutionary design theme continues thanks to reshaped taillights that also feature LED lighting. You’ll also notice that the 2017 Elantra’s rear end kicks up a little, making it look like there’s an integrated rear spoiler in the back.

From the side is where the new 2017 Hyundai Elantra can be easily mistaken for the model it replaces because both cars have a similar silhouette. Thanks to the low roofline that quickly descends as you move toward the back of the car, the 2017 model also has the same coupe-like appearance when viewed from the side. You’ll also notice that the 2017 Elantra has a character line that runs along the body from the front fender all the way to the rear door handle.

Moving inside, the Elantra’s cabin design is similar to the one found in the larger Sonata. Featuring simple dash layout, the Elantra’s center stack has a mix of buttons and knobs for adjusting the audio and climate controls, and a large touchscreen on higher trim levels. Like in the Sonata, the center stack is also tilted slightly towards the driver so that controls are within easy reach. Compared to the outgoing model, the 2017 Elantra’s front seats have been redesigned and now come with more aggressive side bolsters. The main gauge cluster has also been redesigned for a cleaner look, with the tach and speedometer no longer positioned inside two separate bins.

Is Hyundai’s redesign of the Elantra a success or is it too conservative? Let us know in the comments below.

Last week’s installment of Refreshing or Revolting featured the 2016 Mazda CX-9, and the verdict was mostly positive.

“Looks great, from the windshield forward, otherwise, generic, 3 row crossover right down to the big wheels and spoiler thing plonked on top of the hatch,” said 48chevy.

“Refreshing!  I find the exterior to be the best in its class and the interior (at least from the photos) appears to be approaching their luxury competitors.  People may fault Mazda for various things, but their styling is on-point this generation,” said stlguym.

“Refreshingly sexy: The looks speak for themselves. Pilot, Highlander, beware at the CX-9,” said Brian Rosado.

“Nicely done Mazda! Looks great in and out. A bit concerned over adequacy of a turbo 4. Test drive will tell the tale. Very refreshing,” said j3ff.

The post Refreshing or Revolting: 2017 Hyundai Elantra appeared first on Motor Trend.

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