2017 Hyundai Elantra Spotted Testing in India Again

2017 Hyundai Elantra, the much awaited premium sedan from the South Korean carmaker has been spotted testing in India. This is not the first time a test mule has been caught testing in the country and we hardly think this would be the last. Judging from the heavy camouflage on the car it is quite certain that Hyundai India still has a long way to go before it’s ready to launch the car, which is slated to happen next year.

With all the heavy camouflage it is difficult to say whether the India-spec model will see any design changes compared to the one we reviewed earlier this year. That said we hardly believe the car will see any drastic changes to speak off, except for redesigned headlamps and some minor cosmetic updates. The new generation model is made of 53 per cent Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), which has helped build a higher structural rigidity on the model. Measuring, 4610mm in length, 1800mm in width, 1450mm in height with a wheelbase of 2700mm, the new sedan is similar to the outgoing version in terms of dimensions and is now 20mm longer and 25mm wider than the model it replaces.

In terms of styling the car has received an extensive makeover compared to the outgoing model and it loses the Fluidic looks. The new Elantra now comes with bolder character lines and less curvy sections that give it an imposing look, which is further accentuated by the large five-slated hexagonal grille at the front. In terms of other exterior features the car is gets wide sweptback headlamps with projector lights and a muscular front bumper that houses the boomerang shaped LED daytime running lights. The rear profile also comes with some considerable changes, noticeably the new distinctive LED tail lamps that can also be seen in the spy shots and new brawny rear bumper.

While the cabin isn’t visible in these spy images, but the car we reviewed earlier showed that the new cockpit is more driver centric. Right from the infotainment system to the all the dials and knobs all have been angled towards the driver. The top spec model will likely get a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and all the connectivity and entertainment features like Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, Music player, AUX-IN and Bluetooth connectivity among others. In fact the seats are also more premium and comfortable compared to the previous model.

In terms of powertrain options the Elantra is likely to get the same 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines. Hyundai might also bring the new 2.0 litre petrol engine to India and existing 1.6 litre diesel motor is likely to be revised as well. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and automatic.

SOURCE: goo.gl/hj7IVB