ON FRONT PAG E N O R T H E AST V I C TO R I A , A L P S A N D H I G H CO U N T RY
APRIL 15 - 21, 2016
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HYUNDAI ELANTRA: It takes on a more assertive stance.
Elantra illustrates Hyundai’s evolution
YOU have to hand it to Hyundai. A decade or so ago the South Korean automobile manufacturer churned out cheap and cheerful cars in which refinement was not a strong suit. Now, with the sixth generation of the Hyundai Elantra not only has refinement reached new heights, quality has followed while still maintaining its affordable status. And design no longer takes a back seat with Hyundai’s sleek design philosophy there for all to see. The latest Elantra is not lacking in specification, with two levels – Active and Elite (Premium has been dropped) – offering buyers choices not often found at this price point.
By DEREK OGDEN At $21,490, the Active is marginally more expensive than the car it replaces but includes more than $2000 worth of added value, while the Elite carries $2000 to $2500 extra value. We were presented with the mid-range Active automatic, at $23,790, plus onroad costs, to evaluate. It provided a clear insight into the Hyundai company philosophy. Striking new looks set the tone of the new Elantra, a key feature being a more assertive front end than before thanks to Hyundai’s ‘family signature’ hexagonal radiator grille, slimline headlamps and
LED daytime running lights. From the side, sweeping character lines work well. Projector beam foglamps are standard across the range, while an impressive 0.27 drag coefficient is attained with the help of front wheel ‘air curtains’ – derived from the Sonata Hybrid – that help channel airflow around the wheels to minimise turbulence and wind resistance. Other wind cheaters include strategically positioned underbody covers, a new-design lower rear bumper spoiler and longer boot lid. Elantra’s stablemates, Genesis, Sonata and Tucson play their part with the
Hyundai’s passenger cabin featuring driver-focused surroundings in which main controls are arranged in groups according to function – multimedia controls at the top, climate functions below on a stack angled towards the driver, and drive system operations on or behind the steering wheel. Occupants are offered more shoulder room front and rear (up 7mm and 12mm respectively) and more rear headroom (up 4mm) and, at 59mm, a heap more leg room. Ambience is enhanced by alloy-look air vent surrounds and metallic-painted dashboard and door trim inserts.
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Paul Davenport 0408 057 837 Michael Henderson 0418 512 531 Kylie Stevenson 0428 215 677 Noel Gilbert 0438 597 200
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