Spy shots of Hyundai Elantra test mule have surfaced the internet once again. The test car had no camouflage and was exactly the same as the model showcased at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. The launch of Elantra executive sedan may happen in August 2012.
The old Elantra which Hyundai launched in India was quite an ugly duckling, despite its abilities as a good mid-size sedan. Just like the Hyundai Verna, the fluidic design makes the Elantra stand out from its rivals in terms of exterior styling. The spy shots reveal the test mule’s rear with the car’s roof ending like as it would in a coupe. The tail lamp cluster looks similar to the one in Hyundai Sonata. The bumper has integrated reflectors for added safety.
The Elantra is expected to be offered in both petrol and diesel engine versions. The Elantra petrol may be powered by a 1.8-litre engine that puts out 148 Bhp of power while the Elantra diesel may be powered by a 1.6-litre engine that puts out 130 Bhp of power. The engines are mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Elantra may come with comfort features such as smart key (engine) start button, cruise control, dual zone automatic climate control, integrated audio system with six speakers, driver seat with electric adjustments, leather seats and trip computer with LCD display. Safety features in the upcoming Elantra may include front dual airbags, side and curtain airbags, ABS and EBD.
The upcoming Elantra is expected to be priced in the range of Rs. 12 lakh – Rs. 15 lakh. The Elantra will compete with Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis, Renault Fluence, Skoda Laura and Volkswagen Jetta. If Hyundai’s aggressive pricing strategy of its Sonata premium sedan has anything to do with Elantra, it would also carry an aggressive price.
