2020 Hyundai Elantra (CN7) SmartStream 1.6L MPI Previewed – Launching Soon!

The hotly contested C-Segment sedan market is about to have a new challenger with the all-new (CN7) Hyundai Elantra, slated to be launched in the next few days.

Following the official preview, we have confirmation of the sole fully-imported (CBU) variant; dubbed SmartStream 1.6L MPI, which boasts an entirely new, angular design language, a latest-generation drivetrain unit, and a full suite of active safety features.

Starting with the powerplant – the Elantra is powered by the company’s ‘Smartstream G’ 1.6-litre, naturally-aspirated four-cylinder which outputs 123PS and 154Nm at 4,500rpm. The compact engine is mated to a first of its kind Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) with 8-speed virtual ratios.

According to Hyundai, though the IVT might have the working principles of a typical CVT- type transmission, the IVT is designed to work and feel more like conventional auto.

The striking exterior design is characterised by Hyundai’s new design language for the Elantra “Parametric Dynamics” which embodies the use of triangular shapes to create a futuristic design. The ‘Parametric Jewel Pattern Grille’ is flanked by LED headlamps; uniquely, the turn signals are embedded into the grille, and not part of the main headlight assembly.

Along the flanks – the Elantra is fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels to complement its fastback silhouette. At the back, a light tube that runs the width of the boot, connects the LED combination lights at either end, further accentuating the width of the car.

Another crafty detail is the light signature also forms an “H-pattern” when lit.

However, it’s on the inside that Hyundai has pulled out all the stops. The spacious interior – which now boasts an additional 58mm of rear legroom (over its predecessor) is trimmed in either Light Grey or Black with a mixture of fabrics for added texture. The light grey interior option uniquely covers the driver’s side door panels, grip handle in grey upholstery to give it a cocooning ‘cockpit-like’ feel for the driver. Ventilated, heated/cooled seats are offered for both the front driver and passenger.

Elsewhere, the Elantra is supplied as standard with a 10.25-inch Supervision TFT LCD instrument cluster, 8-inch central infotainment display with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Elsewhere, the cabin features dual-zone climate control, wireless phone charging and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The Elantra also features the complete suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which puts it on par with its rivals from Honda (Sensing) and Toyota (Safe-T).

The Elantra’s “SmartSense” ADAS suite carries the following features:

• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) with Lane Following Assist (LFA)
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
• FCA with Avoidance Assist Junction (FCA-JT)
• Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
• Rear Cross Traffic-Avoidance Assists (RCCA)
• Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
• Driving Attention Warning (DAW) with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA)

The FCA-JT works when the driver turns (into a junction) on the right – if the system detects an oncoming car, it will automatically apply the brakes. Both the BCA and RCCA systems are also capable of intervening if the driver doesn’t react in time.

The Elantra will be supplied in four different exterior colours – Polar White, Electric Shadow, Amazon Grey and Intense Blue.

The Elantra is currently open for booking, the official pricing is expected to follow in the next few days, along with warranty and aftersales packages.

Does Hyundai have a genuine contender on their hands? Let us know in the comments.

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