Hyundai Elantra Facelift Unveiled Ahead Of Launch, Bookings Begin

• It gets a sharper front face with updates like triangular headlamps with DRLs, a revised grille, new alloys and restyled rear end.
• Interiors are expected to look similar, with minor tweaks to the steering wheel and AC vents.
• It will only retain the 2.0-litre petrol variant. Could get 1.5-litre BS6 diesel from the Seltos at a later stage.
• Bookings for the refreshed sedan have opened today for a token amount of Rs 25,000.

The Hyundai Elantra made its debut in India in 2006 in its third generation, that was later replaced by the fifth iteration in 2012. We currently have the sixth iteration on sale in the country. However, it hasn’t really sold in respectable numbers, and is actually one of the slowest selling models in its segment. 

In a bid to give the sedan a fresh lease of life, Hyundai has now revealed a facelift of the Elantra ahead of its launch on October 3. And we can tell you that the refreshed sedan sports a variety of changes.

At a glance, the facelifted model certainly exudes a sharper look than its predecessor. Major highlights at the front include a larger single-piece grille that are flanked by triangle-shaped LED headlamps. The side profile looks unchanged but the rear gets a sharper set of LED taillamps with the number plate housing now on the bumper. A fresh set of restyled alloy wheels complete the exterior rejig.

While Hyundai hasn’t revealed the interior shots of the sedan, we expect it to be almost the same. Additions might include the steering wheel from the Kona Electric and chrome elements like the international-spec car. It is expected to carry over features from the current car like the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, ventilated and powered front seats, electric sunroof, wireless charging and hands-free smart boot. It is also expected to get Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car tech from the Venue. Safety kit includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control and hill start assist.

Under the hood, the current Elantra is offered with a 2.0-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre diesel engine. The petrol mill pushes out 152PS and 192Nm whereas the diesel unit produces 128PS and 260Nm. It is now confirmed on the website that the Elantra facelift will only get the 2.0-litre petrol engine. This is in line with Hyundai planning to discontinue the 1.6-litre CRDI unit once BS6 emission norms come into effect. However the facelift could borrow the BS6-compliant 1.5-litre CRDi unit from the Kia Seltos at a later stage.

All remaining details of the Elantra facelift will be revealed once it launches on October 3. Bookings for the refreshed sedan have opened today for a token price of Rs 25,000. Expect it to be priced at a slight premium over the current model, which costs from Rs 13.82 lakh to Rs 20.04 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It will rekindle its rivalry with the Skoda Octavia, Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla Altis.