8th-gen Hyundai Elantra unveiled at Busan Mobility Show in South Korea

KUALA LUMPUR: Discontinued in Malaysia back in 2023, the Hyundai Elantra has received a generational upgrade in the global market. The all-new eighth-gen Elantra was recently previewed at the Busan Mobility Show, currently underway in South Korea, where the sedan is known as the Avante.

2027 Hyundai Elantra: Key highlights 

Longer and wider than its predecessor

Longer and wider than its predecessor, the next-gen Hyundai sedan measures 4,765 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,425 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. This means customers can expect a more commanding road presence and better interior space.

Significant cosmetic tweaks on the exterior

Underpinning Hyundai’s Art of Steel design language, the upgraded Elantra boasts a dramatic design overhaul with sharper body lines and significant cosmetic tweaks.

The front is kitted with split LED headlights, T-shaped DRLs, and a muscular front bumper, while the rear flaunts an integrated ducktail-esque spoiler, T-shaped LED tail lights, and a striking bumper with black cladding. Accentuating the side profile are flush door handles and 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

New interior and safety features

The revamped cabin features several new features that promise to offer occupants a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Key highlights include - 

• Hyundai’s new Pleos Connect interface, with a massive 14.6-inch infotainment unit
• New dashboard layout integrating a chunky three-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel and a slim digital driver’s display
• Dual wireless smartphone charging pads
• 100W USB charging ports
• Bang & Olufsen audio system
• Powered front seats with memory functions
• Ambient lighting
• Electronic parking brake with auto-hold
• OTA updates
• Dual-zone climate control
• 360-degree camera
• Built-in dashcam
• Digital key

As for safety, the upgraded sedan is packed with 10 airbags and a comprehensive ADAS pack, including two new systems - 

• Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control 2: It automatically decelerates the car in specific sections, such as speed breakers and intersections
• Pedal Misuse Safety Assist: It automatically applies the brakes when the driver mistakes the accelerator for the brake pedal.

Improved hybrid drivetrain 

Hyundai offers the new sedan with the same 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol and 1.6-litre hybrid powertrains. While the pure ICE mill continues to produce 149 horsepower as earlier, the upgraded electrified drivetrain now makes 157 hp (16 hp more than the predecessor). The hybrid trim now comes with a ‘Stay Mode’ feature, allowing the vehicle to utilise battery power to run the infotainment system and air-conditioning while stationary.

The next-gen Elantra also benefits from new features such as Smart Regenerative Braking and Hybrid Hierarchical Predictive Control, offering enhanced efficiency and overall driving performance.

Will the Elantra come back to Malaysia?

As for the new Hyundai Elantra’s debut in Malaysia, the chances appear slim as the brand has pivoted its local strategy, with focus on popular SUVs and high-profile releases like the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N.

Also read: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: A detailed look at Hyundai’s performance EV