The wait is over! Multiple speculations and spyshots later, the sixth generation of the Elantra has been launched in India with prices starting at Rs 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Hyundai has been battling it out with the likes of the Toyota Corolla Altis, the Skoda Octavia and the Volkswagen Jetta.
Here’s a look at the introductory (ex-showroom, Delhi) prices, which will be valid till December, 2016.
Petrol
Elantra 2.0 MPi S – 12.99 lakh
Elantra 2.0 MPi SX – 14.79 lakh
Elantra 2.0 MPi SX (AT) – 15.89 lakh
Elantra 2.0 MPi SX (O) – 16.59 lakh
Elantra 2.0 MPi SX (O) AT – 17.99 lakh
Diesel
Elantra 1.6 CRDi S – 14.79 lakh
Elantra 1.6 CRDi SX – 16.39 lakh
Elantra 1.6 CRDi SX (O) – 17.69 lakh
Elantra 1.6 CRDi SX (O) AT – 19.19 lakh
Now that we have the prices, let’s run through the basics:
The Looks
When the ‘Neo Fluidic’ Elantra debuted in 2012, it was greeted by a lot of ‘oohs’ and ‘wows’. That said, it was slightly in-your-face (and maybe even over the top) for a few. The D segment that the Elantra slugs it out in is known for clean and minimal design. Naturally, with this version, Hyundai has subdued the curves, and replaced them with some clean and crisp lines. The sixth generation looks like an evolution of the existing car, and that isn’t a bad thing at all. Based on an all new platform, the Elantra is both longer and wider compared to its predecessor.
The tapered headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, the coupe-like sloping roofline and the LED taillamps do their bit in making the saloon look modern. It gets a big thumbs up from our side as far as design is concerned.
The Cabin
With the 2015 update, Hyundai also introduced an all-black interior colour scheme for the Elantra. This was a bold move, especially considering how much our country loves beige interiors with wooden accents. The trend continues, and the Elantra gets just as many goodies as before. The layout has been heavily revised and looks more in tune with the times now. Features include a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery and electric seats. Our favourite has to be the handsfree boot release. Simply approach the boot with the key in your pocket and the boot will open. Pretty nifty!
The Drive
We will be driving the new Elantra over the weekend, so do stay tuned for a detailed first impressions report. There are two engines on offer: a 1.6-litre diesel and a 2.0-litre petrol. While the diesel has been carried over from the previous generation, the petrol engine is all-new. Both engines can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. Speaking of specs, the diesel has reportedly been uptuned to produce 140PS of power. On the other hand, the petrol motor is good for 156PS.
Hyundai has high hopes with the Elantra and is banking on the new one not just to revive itself, but breathe some life into the segment as a whole. What do you think about the new Hyundai? Let us know through the comments section below.
