Hyundai reveals Elantra-based Lafesta for China

The Hyundai Lafesta gets an i30 Fastback like silhouette, while its front end looks like a cross between the Elantra and the new Santa Fe.

Hyundai has unveiled a new strategic model called Lafesta for the Chinese market at the 2018 Beijing Motor Show.

Based on the Elantra saloon, the Lafesta is a more youth-oriented model, with a four-door coupe like profile. The term Lafesta translates to ‘Festival’ in Italian. The new model shares Hyundai’s new design philosophy of ‘Sensuous Sportiness’, which was first announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The car will draw its power from a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine that’s twinned with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Hyundai claims that cockpit environment is driver focused and designed to deliver an engaging drive, and that it also features practical ergonomics and quality materials. However, no official image of the interior has been revealed yet.

Keeping occupant safety in mind, the Lafesta also features driving assistance systems. Further details will be disclosed in due course, following the official launch later this year.

The Lafesta is expected to be a China-only model for the time being. However, the car’s stunning aesthetics may serve as a preview for future Hyundai saloons, including the facelifted Elantra, which should be revealed later this year.

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