Hyundai Elantra Facelift Spied Ahead Of Launch

• The Hyundai Elantra facelift looks sharper than its predecessor.
• Interiors look similar, albeit with new elements like the steering wheel.
• Rumours suggest that the facelifted Elantra will be a petrol-only model.
• It is expected to be priced over the current model, which retails from Rs 13.82 lakh to Rs 20.04 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Hyundai’s Elantra hasn’t really struck a chord when it comes to churning numbers. Infact, it’s one of the least sold models in its segment. And in a bid to give it a fresh lease of life, Hyundai will launch the Elantra facelift by the end of September. Spied testing in Chennai, here’s all you need to know about the refreshed version of the Elantra.

Visually, the revised model looks sharper than its predecessor. It comes with triangle-shaped LED tail lamps while the rear number plate housing in now on the bumper. Apart from restyled alloy wheels, the side profile looks unchanged. Based on previous spy shots, the front-end now comes with a larger single-piece grille that are flanked by triangle-shaped LED headlamps.

Inside, the basic interior design is expected to be almost the same. That said, the international-spec car shares its steering wheel with the Kona Electric while added chrome elements spruce things up. Just like the current car, the Elantra facelift is expected to come loaded with features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, ventilated and powered front seats, electric sunroof, wireless charging, hands-free smart boot, and more. It is also expected to get Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car tech from the Venue.

Safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control and hill start assist.

Currently, the Elantra comes with two engine options - a 2.0-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre diesel. The petrol engine develops 152PS and 192Nm while the diesel unit develops 128PS and 260Nm. Rumours suggest that the petrol variant will be the only offering on the facelifted model. It will be updated to BS6-emission norms. After all, Hyundai is set to discontinue the 1.6-litre CRDI unit once BS6 emission norms take effect. That said, the Elantra facelift could borrow the BS6-compliant 1.5-litre CRDi unit from the Seltos.

When launched, the Elantra facelift will rekindle its rivalry with the Skoda Octavia, Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla Altis. Naturally, expect a hike in prices over the current model, which costs from Rs 13.82 lakh to Rs 20.04 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Do you think a facelift is enough to give the Elantra a much required boost? Let us know in the comments section below.