Hyundai has introduced the sixth-generation Elantra for the 2017 model year, bringing with it an all-new exterior design, and a driver-oriented cabin that is more in-line with the Sonata. On the outside, the car got a new hexagonal grille that takes up a majority of the front fascia. On the front corners, there are recesses in the bumper that house LED fog lamps. These recesses look similar to the fog lamp units on the previous generation. Overall, the exterior is more refined than before with less of that “fluidic” design. Even the taillights are less aggressive that the last-gen model. Inside, the instrument cluster gets a 4.2-inch color display between the two primary gauges, and upper trim levels come standard with leather upholstery. A seven-inch touch screen display is standard equipment, but an eight-inch screen is available on some models. Under the hood, Hyundai gave the Elantra two new engines – a 2.0-liter with 147 horsepower and a 1.4-liter with 128 horsepower.
The Elantra may seem like it is a little underpowered in a world where smaller vehicles often come with closer to 200 horsepower, but what it is lacking it power is made up with comfort, and economy. Competing against models like the Honda Civic and Chevy Cruze, economy and comfort are huge selling points, so the lack of power isn’t all the big of a deal anyway. So, how does the new Elantra compete with the competition otherwise? Well, check out our detailed review below to find out for yourself.
Updated 05/06/2016: Hyundai has just announced pricing for the most fuel-efficient Elantra yet — the Elantra Eco. It achieves a combined fuel economy of 35 mpg and starts out at $20,650. Check out the "Prices" section below for all the details.
Continue reading for my full review of the new Elantra.
Designers of the 2017 Elantra’s design have taken a decidedly more upscale approach to the car, despite its budget-friendly and C-segment status. The car still carries its familiar shape, but every body panel and angle is new. The larger grille is more defined and aggressive, flanked on either side by HID headlights with LED daytime running lights. LED fog lights down low are mounted vertically, giving the car a unique look.
The newly sculpted hood features accent lines that run into the A-pillars and down under the side mirrors, only to continue as the belt line under the side windows. Another accent line starts on the front fender and slopes upward over the door handles, ending at the taillights. A deep scallop along the bottom of the doors helps give the lower third of the car a sculpted appearance.
Around back, LED taillights with shapely accents make the car unmistakable at night. The bumper and lower black fascia aren’t as detail-rich as the front and sides, but its shape doesn’t detract form the car. Anything more would have made its appearance too busy.
The premium look continues with 17-inch alloy wheels and chrome trim.
Besides aesthetics, the new look also improves aerodynamics, dropping the Elantra’s coefficient of drag to 0.27. The car is also constructed from more high-strength steel than before, making the chassis more rigid than before. In fact, the car is comprised of 53 percent high-strength steel verses the outgoing model’s 21 percents makeup. The result is a car that is 29.5 percent stiffer torsionally and has 25.3 percent more bending strength. These stats lead to an improved ride with better handling characteristics and a quieter cabin.
Inside the Elantra, Hyundai designers have ditched the old design in favor of something similar to the Sonota’s interior. The dash contains several rectangular segments, including the gauge cluster and infotainment screen area. Not only does the dash more improved, the car is larger overall. For 2017, the Elantra grows wider and longer by one inch in both directions, giving it more interior volume than before. In fact, the Elantra should technically be classified as a midsize sedan by the EPA, thanks to its 110.2 cubic feet of interior volume.
The instrument cluster features a new 4.2-inch color TFT display for the driver and an eight-inch infotainment system. Mid-grade models feature a seven-inch display and base models come with a conventional radio head unit. Also depending on trim level, leather replaces cloth on the seats. The under the covering, the seats are made from a material called SoyFoam, an environmentally friendly material that is made from soybean oil. The rear bench offers seating for three and 60/40 split folding for hauling longer items in the trunk. Speaking of the trunk, the Elantra now has Hyundai’s Smart Trunk feature. Simply stand behind the car for more than three seconds with the key on your person, and the trunk will open automatically.
The Elantra’s upscale feel continues with its impressive list of in-car technologies. Both the 7.0- and 8.0-inch touch screens come with Android Auto, Hyundai’s next-gen Blue Link telematics system, SiriusXM and HD Radio, Pandora, and Siri Eyes Free. Oddly enough, Hyundai makes no mention of Apple CarPlay being available.
The 2017 Elantra comes powered by two all-new powertrains. The volume engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that runs an Atkinson combustion cycle while producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual (base SE trim only) or a new six-speed automatic.
Optionally, the Elantra offers a new 1.4-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder on its Eco trim. Like the trim level suggests, this turbo four isn’t a rocket. It’s purpose is to achieve the best fuel economy possible. Producing 128 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque, the engine sends power to the front wheels via Hyundai’s EcoShift seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. All this is designed to net the Elantra Eco 35 mpg combined. It has yet to be determined is the EPA’s testing will back up Hyundai’s projections.
Regardless of trim, the Elantra comes with selectable Drive Modes. They include Eco, Normal, and Sport – all changeable via a center console-mounted button.
The Elantra’s safety systems also get an upgrade. Structural improvements have been made to help reinforce several key areas. The connection between the dash and the cowl have been reinforced, the front end now features a straightened load path to the A-pillar, the B-pillar area has been strengthened with hot-stamped steel, and the side impact beams have been improved.
Of course, staying out of an accent is better than just surviving one. The Elantra now has a full suite of electronic aids, including Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Change Assist. As with most cars these days, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, traction control, ABS, and a tire pressure monitor system all come standard.
But not only does the Elantra come with those safety features, this entry-level compact sedan now offers adaptive cruise control, or as Hyundai calls it, Smart Cruise Control. The HID headlights are also active, following the steering wheel inputs to illuminate into turns.
Hyundai seems dedicated at keeping the Elantra in an affordable price bracket despite the updates. The base SE trim with the standard six-speed manual transmission carries a price of $17,150. That’s actually $100 less expensive than the 2016 Elantra’s starting price. Opting for the automatic transmission pushes the price up $1,000 to $18,150. Selecting the range-topping Limited grade, available only with the six-speed automatic, bumps the price up to $22,350.
For 2017, Hyundai has released the Hyundai Elantra Eco, which is the most fuel-efficient Elantra yet. It achieves a fuel economy of 32 mpg in the city, 40 mpg on the highway, and 35 mpg combined. What’s more, the Eco comes with a long list of standard equipment, including a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, seven-speed dual clutch transmission, LED daytime running lights, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist. Other highlights that come standard include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual automatic temperature control with auto defogger, keyless entry, proximity key, hands trunk and front door handle, heated front seats, sun visor extensions, and illuminated vanity mirrors. The Eco starts out at $20,650 before taxes and licensing fees.
Not only is the Elantra competitively priced, it also carries Hyundai’s fantastic 10-year, 100,000-mile factory warranty. It’s hard to beat that.
The Elantra has some stiff competition with the Civic, especially with the all-new Civic hitting the streets for 2016. The car has a new design inside and out, along with more interior room, more power from its two new engine options, and a price that is competitive. Like the Elantra, the new Civic has a more grown up appearance, especially inside. A slew of technology features are also present, helping occupants stay connected and safe.
Pricing for the Civic Sedan starts at $18,640 for the base LX trim and increases to $26,500 for the Touring model.
Read our full review of the 2016 Honda Civic here.
For those who like the wedge-like shape of the current Civic, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze should pick up the slack. The second-gen Cruze made its big debut this summer, but it won’t be arriving in showrooms until early 2016. The good news for Cruze fans is that it will continue to offer a fuel-efficient diesel version, and reports indicate that a hatchback model will finally join the U.S. lineup as well.
Read our full review of the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze here.
The Elantra is an insanely important model in Hyundai’s lineup. Since 2012, the Elantra has sold more than 200,000 units each year in the U.S. alone. That beats both the Accent by nearly 150,000 annually and Sonata by roughly 30,000 units annually. Needless to say, the Korean automaker has a lot riding on the Elantra’s redesign.
It seems Hyundai has done its homework though, as the completely revised car seems far more refined, modern, larger, and more technology-laden. Its smart new looks and updated engine options should attract buyers looking for something that isn’t a crossover, but who still want all the bells and whistles automakers are loading in those high-riding station wagons.
Updated 01/15/2016: Hyundai announced prices for the 2017 Elantra which will arrive at dealers later this month. Surprisingly - despite the updates - the 2017 Elantra is $100 less expensive than the model it replaces.
Updated 11/24/2015: We added a series of new images taken during the car’s official debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Updated 11/19/2015: Hyundai unveiled the 2017 Elantra at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Hyundai today reveals its all-new 2017 Elantra at the Los Angeles Auto Show. As one of Hyundai’s all time best-selling models, the new Elantra enters its sixth-generation building on the momentum and success of its proven award-winning formula and strong value proposition by offering a bold aerodynamic design with sophisticated styling, all-new efficient powertrains for enhanced fuel economy, better ride quality and noise insulation, and comprehensive safety with class-above features.
Assembled in both Montgomery, Alabama and Ulsan, South Korea, the new Elantra distinguishes itself from the compact car class with the addition of segment-first premium convenience and safety technologies, and is expected to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The 2017 Elantra will arrive at Hyundai dealers in January.
STRIKING EXTERIOR DESIGN The new Elantra projects confidence with sculpted body forms complemented by smoothly contoured lines that reveal the underlying inspiration of Hyundai designers. Inspired by the concept of dynamic precision, Elantra’s architecture was a perfect platform for collaboration between Hyundai designers and engineers to blend advanced styling with functional aerodynamics.
From the front, the new Elantra is defined by Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille that projects a distinctive character when combined with its modern lighting signatures, including available HID headlights with Dynamic Bending Lights and unique vertical LED daytime running lights, which are firsts for Elantra. Elantra’s sporty lower front fascia integrates functional front wheel air curtains, a component that is derived from the Sonata Hybrid that helps manage air flow from the front of the vehicle and around the wheels to minimize turbulence and wind resistance. In addition, underbody covers, an aerodynamic rear bumper bottom spoiler and rear decklid designed with an expanded trunk edge contribute to Elantra’s 0.27 coefficient of drag.
Elantra features a sleek bodyside character line that accentuates a sweeping side window silhouette and striking side profile. Available premium features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, all-new LED door handle approach lights, side mirror LED turn signal indicators and LED taillights with high tech graphics add a level of sophistication and detail to this class-above compact sedan. The 2017 Elantra will be offered in eight exterior colors, five of which are new to the model. Elantra’s overall length has increased by just under an inch and its proportions are further enhanced by increasing its width by 1.0-inches, presenting a more athletic stance and stable appearance.
MODERN INTERIOR DESIGN On the inside, Elantra continues to depict a modern driver-oriented design that is optimized for intuitive control, improved interior roominess, high-quality materials and premium technology features. The contemporary interior design integrates premium soft-touch materials in key touch points and high-tech details to create an inviting and comfortable interior environment for all passengers.
The wide design of the instrument panel provides a feeling of spaciousness and is available with a 4.2-inch color TFT LCD instrument display for improved driver visibility and functionality. The rest of the center stack is laid out in a horizontal design with buttons and controls placed in logical groups by function, and a slight seven degree tilt toward the driver for optimal ergonomics. Available premium convenience features such as a segment-first integrated memory system for the power driver seat and side mirrors, dual automatic temperature control with auto defogging system and auto-dimming rearview mirror further enhance driving comfort, along with advanced ergonomic front seats. The front seats feature high-tension lightweight seat frames for improved performance against collisions, and a multi-firmness seat pad to help reduce driver fatigue over long distances.
In fact, all of Elantra’s seats, covered in either cloth or available leather, are made of SoyFoam™, an environmentally friendly seating foam that substitutes petroleum based polyol with hydroxyl-functionalized soybean oil and optimizes the formulation/process to maximize mechanical performance. For added comfort and convenience, passengers enjoy available heated front and rear seats with a versatile 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Elantra also offers class-above total interior volume with improved front and rear headroom. At 110.2 cu. ft. of total interior volume, the 2017 Elantra is classified as a Midsize car by the EPA, which is a class above Mazda3, Ford Focus and some premium models.
In addition to passenger comfort, improving interior cabin noise management and reducing road noise were top development priorities for Hyundai engineers. To reduce engine sound a hood insulator is equipped on the majority of Elantra models. Engineers also reduced the aperture size in the front dash panel by 25 percent, increased the thickness of the front door window glass, and added various sound absorption materials in all pillars, inner fenders and floorpan. In an effort to further improve NVH characteristics, engineers also applied plastic and rubber bushings to the front sub-frame and increased the bushings size of the lower control arm.
REFINED & RESPONSIVE CHASSIS The 2017 Elantra is not only lighter than the outgoing model, but its rigid chassis is now reinforced with 53 percent advanced high-strength steel compared to 21 percent from the previous model, providing improved stiffness at a lower body weight. This increased utilization results in a 29.5 percent stiffer torsional rigidity and 25.3 percent greater bending strength, which bring improvements in vehicle ride and handling, quietness, durability and driving performance. Furthermore, the new Elantra increased structural adhesive application 40 times at higher stress points on the chassis and to reinforce welding areas. A component often found in aerospace applications, these structural adhesives also contribute to improved NVH and vehicle dynamics due to extra stiffness in the chassis. Hyundai engineers focused on these enhancements to develop a more rigid body structure in an effort to target top safety ratings by the IIHS and NHTSA.
Improved ride comfort, handling and stability are achieved through Elantra’s redesigned rear suspension geometry that modifies the angle of the rear shock absorbers and changed the position of the coil springs on the coupled torsion beam axle. Additionally, an increase in rear bushing diameter helps to improve long term durability. Elantra’s front suspension uses an optimally designed McPherson strut with coil springs and gas shock absorbers along with a front stabilizer bar to help reduce body roll when cornering. The standard Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system instantly adjusts to changing driving conditions for greater precision and steering feel while improving fuel economy. Increased caster provides safe and reliable steering feedback at highway speeds.
NEW EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS For 2017, the new Elantra receives two all-new powertrains designed for improved fuel efficiency and everyday drivability performance. The standard engine available on the base SE and Limited trim is a 2.0-liter Nu MPI Atkinson four-cylinder engine producing a peak 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb. ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm (estimated). This Atkinson cycle-type engine reduces pumping loss by delaying the close timing of the intake valve in the compression stroke, therefore maximizing the expansion ratio – it is the only Atkinson cycle engine to be combined with multi-port injection in the compact class. This greater expansion ratio is made more efficient by allowing additional energy to be produced. Furthermore, this engine features a high compression ratio of 12.5.
Other enhancements include intermediate valve cam phasing that increases the operational range of the intake valves and helps to reduce pumping loss. High energy ignition coils are also adopted to increase combustion efficiency through increasing spark intensity. A new electronically controlled thermostat decreases pumping energy and allows the thermostat to open at a higher temperature. Finally, piston cooling jets are added to cool down the piston by spraying oil at the lower position of the piston resulting in knock stability and fuel economy improvements. All of this results in up to a 2.2 percent increase in efficiency for optimized fuel economy, and an anticipated 29 city / 38 highway / 33 combined mpg (internal estimate for 6-A/T).
This 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder engine is paired with either a standard six-speed manual transmission (available only on the SE trim) or Elantra’s next generation six-speed automatic transmission. The new automatic transmission helps deliver dynamic performance with an overall 3.3 percent increase in efficiency for optimized fuel economy. A new valve body improves gear shift responsiveness and control, while an optimization in oil pump size aids in improving operating efficiency. A multi-clutch torque converter is also a new addition that allows more control over lock-up. Finally, rolling resistance and friction are minimized by adopting double angular ball bearings.
The second powertrain is an all-new 1.4-liter Kappa turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine equipped on the Elantra Eco trim, available in Spring 2016. This engine produces 128 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a robust 156 lb-ft. of torque at a low 1,400 3,700 rpm and will be mated to an EcoShift seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Eco trim is projected to achieve an unsurpassed estimated 35 mpg combined rating based on internal testing.
Other features of the 1.4L turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine include an integrated cylinder head and exhaust manifold that improves fuel economy 5 7% at higher engine speeds. An optimized straight intake port increases tumble flow for fast combustion, suppressing knock tendency and improving fuel economy. The turbocharger is a single scroll design with an electric wastegate actuator. The optimized turbine and compressor employs a sophisticated scavenging strategy that improves low-end torque and response, while the electric wastegate actuator improves low-end torque and part-load fuel economy by reducing back pressure. Finally, the high pressure fuel injectors have six individually sized laser drilled holes to optimize the fuel spray pattern.
Both engines feature a multitude of friction-reducing and cooling components and high efficiency engineering features designed to enhance fuel economy and maximize performance. In addition, all Elantra trims are equipped with the new Drive Mode Select feature that adjusts both powertrain performance and steering effort, allowing the driver to customize the driving character by selecting from three modes: Eco, Normal or Sport, simply by touching a button on the center console.
COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY In addition to the strengthened chassis, the 2017 Elantra makes structural improvements to the front side members that are now a hexagonal design and the dash-to-cowl connection has also been reinforced. The front apron to the A-pillar now features a straight and continuous load path and has hot stamping applied on the front side rear lower member. B-pillar assemblies feature partial softening hot stamping that start with a reinforcement section (150kgf grade) and then transition into a softening section (100kgf grade) to help absorb side impact. The rear doors also feature dual impact beams. A seven airbag system is standard, including a new driver’s knee airbag, along with Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Traction Control, ABS and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The 2017 Elantra is expected to receive an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5-star safety rating.
New for 2017, the Elantra also offers a wide array of advanced safety technologies, often reserved for luxury cars, to provide another defensive safety layer for its passengers beyond the standard safety system. Available Automatic Emergency Braking with class-exclusive Pedestrian Detection is a technology that utilizes both the front forward facing radar and camera through sensor fusion to detect a vehicle or pedestrian, and warn the driver of a potential collision. If the driver does not react to avoid the impact, the system will apply emergency braking.
Additional Elantra-first safety technologies include available Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist, and a rearview camera, now with dynamic guidance. Lane Keep Assist uses a forward-facing camera to detect lane markings and will alert the driver if the vehicle drifts outside the lane without signaling. The system will apply corrective steering assistance if necessary, and is another active safety tool to assist Elantra drivers and help prevent accidents.
INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY & FEATURES The 2017 Elantra truly advances ahead of the compact car class with innovative technology that enhances driver confidence and convenience, without the premium price. Elantra’s segment-exclusive hands-free Smart Trunk, allows Elantra drivers to conveniently open the trunk if their hands are full by simply approaching the rear of the vehicle with the key fob in a purse or pocket. An audible beep will sound three times, and the trunk will automatically open, making it easy to place items in the cargo area.
The new Elantra enhances the driver experience with available all new Dynamic Bending Light and Smart Cruise Control technology. Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) works in tandem with the HID headlights, so they turn-in with the direction of the steering wheel for better nighttime visibility and safety, while the additional High Beam Assist feature automatically dims the high beams when approaching vehicles are detected. Elantra’s Smart Cruise Control (SCC) makes highway and long distance driving more comfortable. Using a radar sensor mounted on the lower front grille, the SCC system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead in varied traffic conditions by automatically adjusting vehicle speed as needed.
ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY AND MULTIMEDIA All Elantras come standard with iPhone®/USB and auxiliary input jacks and SiriusXM® satellite radio. New for 2017, the Elantra features two advanced infotainment systems beyond the base audio system that perfectly cater to the digitally connected – an available 7.0-inch Display Audio touchscreen system with rearview camera, and Hyundai’s next-generation 8.0-inch navigation system. Both multimedia systems are equipped with Android Auto for seamless and intuitive operation of the most commonly used smartphone functions including app-based navigation, streaming audio, voice-controlled search capabilities, plus any approved smartphone apps. Since smartphone integration requires a wired connection to the vehicle, Elantra provides an available second USB port for charging – the first application on a Hyundai vehicle.
The advanced 8.0-inch navigation system features an enhanced display with improved touch sensitivity for touch and drag control, increased screen brightness for better daytime visibility, and a split-screen display showing map and music data. Both SiriusXM Satellite Radio and HD Radio® Technology are standard on this system. For additional convenience and connectivity, navigation-equipped Elantras offer pre-loaded apps, voice control functions, and premium SiriusXM features.
Pandora® capability Real-time SiriusXM® Travel Link® three-month trial period, including traffic, weather, sports, stocks, fuel prices, even movie times, multi-cultural channels and presets recording capability SiriusXM® Tune Start – plays current song from the beginning when tuning into a preset channel “Eyes Free” Siri integration –voice control function to prevent driver distraction
For the first time, Elantra also will offer an eight-speaker Infinity premium audio system, including a center speaker and subwoofer. Furthermore, music lovers will appreciate Hyundai’s first application of Harman’s patented Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology. Clari-Fi™ analyzes digital audio files during playback and automatically rebuilds much of what was lost in the compression process. This delivers a musical experience closer to the artists’ original intent, with increased dynamic range for enhanced realism, and improved overall fidelity.
NEXT-GENERATION BLUE LINK® The 2017 Elantra offers the next-generation Hyundai Blue Link system with enhanced safety, service and infotainment telematics. Blue Link brings seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like Remote Start w/ Climate Control, Destination Search powered by Google®, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. Blue Link can be easily accessed from the buttons on the rearview mirror, the web or via smartphone app. Some of these features can even be controlled via the latest Android Wear™ and new Apple Watch™ smartwatch offerings.
Blue Link is offered in three service packages: Connected Care & Remote is available on all models and Guidance is available on Navigation-equipped models. 2017 Elantras equipped with Blue Link offer one year of complimentary Blue Link Connected Care.
Connected Care package (complimentary for 1-year):
Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) and Assistance SOS Emergency Assistance Enhanced Roadside Assistance Monthly Vehicle Health Report Maintenance Alerts Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification (DTC) Service Link Blue Link App (smartphone, smartwatch) On-Demand Diagnostics Driving Information
Remote Start with Climate Control Remote Door Lock/Unlock Remote Horn and Lights Car Finder via Mobile App Stolen Vehicle Recovery/Slowdown/Immobilization Vehicle Safeguard Alerts: Geo-Fence Valet Alert Speed/Curfew Alert
Destination search powered by Google® Destination Send-to-Car by Google®
More details on specific Blue Link-equipped vehicles available at www.hyundaibluelink.com.
2019 Hyundai Elantra Sport - Driven