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Newfound elan

Hyundai's new Elantra might just have found the formula for an Indian success

In today's world of beauty treatments and makeovers, can cars be far behind? Most carmakers in the auto industry across the world are hard at work to spruce up their machines. While some carmakers are considering minor cosmetic surgeries to change the face of their cars, others are taking it a step further with engine transplants. And Korean carmaker, Hyundai is certainly not far behind. At the New York Auto Show held recently, Hyundai unveiled its new Elantra.

With daring new lines, a new design statement and extra attention that takes detailing to an altogether new height, the distinguishing features of the new Hyundai Elantra sure set it apart from its predecessor that is currently available in the Indian market. While the headlights have been inspired by the Honda Civic and tail-lights by the Toyota Corolla, the similarity ends there. The Elantra's design masks its high, upright stance unlike the Civic's, which is a low slung design. The combination of high-mounted headlights that are sunk into the bonnet, along with an arched roof and an upper curving belt-line indeed are proof of the cosmetic surgeon's dexterous fingers. Yet another distinct feature is the crease that runs from the front fender to the rear quarter glass which gives it a BMW-ish chin.

While the new Elantra is claimed to be 50 percent stiffer than the current model, the company also says it has made a breakthrough in sound insulation, with the new model a full two decibels quieter. With space often being synonymous with luxury, the Elantra does not disappoint. The upright stance of the cabin only translates into additional space inside - and it betters its rivals such as the Civic and the Corolla in this respect, combining this with better ingress and egress with more legroom. The interiors are likewise new. Like the new Sonata, blue-backed dials, protruding aircon knobs along with a multi-function steering wheel and vertically slatted aircon vents (also found on the current model) retain the Hyundai characteristics.

The first of the three motors that power the car come from the all-new Gamma range, a series of engines which will also power the new Accent or Verna that is slated for launch soon in India. The petrol 1600cc is an all-aluminium unit and this motor also features dual overhead cams as well as continuous variable valve timing. It delivers an impressive 122 bhp at peak power. However, it is the 2000cc `Beta' motor that delivers an even more impressive 143 bhp, and is bound to give the Chevy Optra a reason to break into a cold sweat. Add to this duo of petrols a new common rail diesel motor displacing 1600cc - this will hold special interest for Indian customers. This engine, internally known as the D4FB, is substantially smaller than the 2000cc unit that powers the current Elantra. And astonishing as it may sound, it produces more power and torque, thanks to an advanced multiple injection per stroke technology as well as a new-gen variable geometry turbocharger, the likes of which can currently be found on cars such as the Skoda Laura and Mercedes C Class.

Although the current Elantra has only seen partial success in India, especially due to its lack of visual appeal, the new model, geared for a launch later this year, plans to change all that. We'll keep you posted!

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