Not only the 2020 Hyundai Elantra received new triangular exterior design, but Hyundai’s new C-segment saloon also gets upmarket tech and a hybrid powertrain.
The all-new 2020 Hyundai Elantra and Elantra Hybrid broke cover during the live global reveal at The Lot Studios in West Hollywood, despite the Covid-19 pandemic. The seventh-generation Elantra features an all-new look, boast larger dimensions and upmarket tech shared with the bigger Sonata saloon.
Hyundai says that the all-new Elantra is the model’s return to its sporty roots for all the “young disruptors” which Hyundai considers as its customer base. And with the high adoption of crossovers and SUVs, Hyundai says the Elantra’s design “will rock the boat” in the C-segment category and could pump interests back into the segment with its sharp triangular-themed design.
Build upon Hyundai’s third-generation K3 vehicle platform, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra has grown larger over the predecessor model. The overall length has increased up to 56mm (4676mm), the overall width by 25mm (1826mm), and 20mm (2720mm) longer wheelbase. Its overall height has been reduced down by 20mm (1415mm).
Inside, the interior layout continues the sporty theme, featuring a low, wide structure with a high centre console, and its long and low centre door trim. Also, the front passenger gets a grab handle as well.
From a tech standpoint, the interior is dominated with two 10.25-inch displays and the angled optional 10.25-inch touchscreen (base models come with an 8.0-inch touchscreen) makes operation by the driver easier. The navigation system includes a bird’s-eye view in navigation maps. Moreover, the navigation system is connected online to provide real-time route updated and navigation options.
And pretty much a staple in cars of this era, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and smartphones can be charged wirelessly via the optionally-available Qi wireless charging. In addition, dual Bluetooth connectivity is also available. which means drivers can connect two phones wirelessly concurrently.
On top of that, the Bose premium sound system with eight speakers are available as an optional extra. Furthermore, the all-new 2020 Elantra comes with an enhanced natural language voice recognition to operate the Elantra’s creature comforts vocally. Besides, Hyundai is also throwing in a customisable 64-colour ambient lighting as standard.
In terms of drivetrain, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra is the first to receive a hybrid powertrain in addition to the 2.0-litre MPI Atkinson Cycle engine. The Elantra Hybrid features a 1.6-litre GDI Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine. The electric propulsion comes from a 32 kW permanent-magnet motor powered by a 1.32 kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery.
The combined system output for the Elantra Hybrid stands at 139 bhp and 264 Nm of torque. Transferring the power to the road is through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. Hyundai claims the Elantra Hybrid is able to achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of lower than 4.7 L/100 Km. (21.2 Km/L)
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra also comes as non-hybrid SE, SEL, and Limited models which comes with the 2.0-litre MPI Atkinson Cycle engine which makes 145 bhp at 6,200 rpm and 179 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. Connected to the engine is Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT).
Unlike conventional CVTs, the IVT utilises a chain-design as opposed to the common push belt design. Hyundai says that IVT improves fuel economy by an additional 1.2%, and with shift response closely to automatic transmission step shifts.
For now, there is no information on pricing for the 2020 Elantra and Elantra Hybrid. Though production of the new Elantras is slated late this year in Korea and Alabama manufacturing plant.