Hyundai India has stopped production of the existing Elantra to make room for the much-improved 2016 model. The 2016 Elantra first appeared in South Korea last year and since then it’s also being launched in North America. Now this striking looking D-segment offering is headed for the Indian market.
The outgoing model and the 2016 Elantra are two very different cars and the differences are more than apparent in the exterior design. The 2016 model, for instance, is a result of Hyundai adopting a new design language instead of the brand’s traditional Fluidic design theme. All-new design bits include a large hexagonal grille, sweptback LED headlights, diamond-cut alloy wheels, wing mirrors and slimmer taillights.
The 2016 Elantra is longer, wider and taller than before. Now although the wheelbase remains the same Hyundai is promising more interior space. As for the engine options, globally there’s a 130bhp 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol, a 147bhp 2-litre unit or a 1.6-litre diesel engine. Hyundai India though is expected to launch the 2-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel engines for the local market.
The 2016 Elantra is expected to be launched within the next couple of months. It will continue to compete in the D-segment wherein it will rival the likes of Skoda Octavia, Toyota Corolla Altis and the Chevrolet Cruze.