2021 Hyundai Elantra debuts with a first-ever hybrid version

The all-new seventh-generation Hyundai Elantra takes a big leap in terms of design & technology. It's the brand's second model to be based on the 'Sensuous Sportiness' design language. 

Just a few days back Hyundai dropped some teasers of the 2021 Elantra sedan (Avante in the Korean market). Now, we have the final production-spec car in front of our eyes. First impressions? It looks way sharper than the outgoing model (the sixth-gen model currently sold in India) and since it's based on the 'Sensuous Sportiness' design philosophy, it arguably looks like a toned-down version of the new Sonata.

Built on the new K3 platform, the 2021 Elantra can now be labelled as a four-door-coupe - thanks to the sloping roofline. It's also longer, wider and lower than the sixth-gen model, with a longer wheelbase as well. The new design also features a shorter front overhang and a pushed back, lowered front cowl for a stronger coupe-like silhouette. By tinkering around with the gearbox placement, the designers have also been able to lower the seat height, thereby leading to a lower centre of gravity and increased driving stability.

The 2021 Elantra, when it goes on sale in Q4 2020, will be offered with a 2.0-litre MPI Atkinson Cycle petrol motor as standard (SE, SEL & Limited variants). Paired to an IVT automatic gearbox, the motor's output is pegged at 147bhp and 179Nm of torque. As mentioned above, the 2021 Elantra gets a hybrid version for the first time. The hybrid model is driven by a smaller 1.6-litre GDI Atkinson cycle petrol motor that works in tandem with a 32kW (43bhp) battery pack. This hybrid unit sends its power via a 6-speed DCT automatic gearbox, with the power & torque figures pegged at 139bhp & 264Nm of torque.

In terms of styling, the latest iteration of Hyundai's cascading grille features a bold parametric-jewel design, which sits in an architecture that's integrated with the headlamps. The side profile of 2021 Elantra features a biggest parametric design element - that of three lines meeting at one point. The Parametric Dynamics theme has also been carried over to the wheel design. At the back, the 'H-Taillamp' is the key design highlight.

Inside, the driver is greeted by two 10.25-inch touchscreen units (the instrument cluster & the infotainment system touchscreen) that are housed as a single unit for a cleaner look. However, lower variants will be offered with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard. Low, wide structures that extend from the door all the way to the centre console provide an aircraft cockpit-like layout for the driver.

However, the biggest leap comes in terms of the tech that's offered on the 2021 Elantra. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are on offer, along with the Hyundai Digital Key (uses Bluetooth and NFC tech to operate key vehicle operations via any smartphone). Hyundai claims these are segment-first offerings. The list of features also includes 64-colour mood lighting, Blue Link connectivity suite, Qi wireless smartphone charging and a premium Bose sound system. As for the safety kit, Hyundai's SmartSense safety features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and High Beam Assist (HBA) will be standard across the line-up.

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