Hyundai again eyes premium sedan segment of India industry; plans to launch new Elantra by 2012 end

After five long years, Korean multinational car maker Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) plans to again mark its presence in the premium sedan segment of the Indian auto industry. It is anticipated that the all-new Elantra will break cover in the domestic market between September and November 2012. The manufacturer decided to introduce this new model with its popular Fluidic designing philosophy. At the first look itself, the car boasts of appealing exteriors that will make it a head-turner on Indian roads, quite like the Verna. Owing to this, Hyundai has anticipated that Elantra is expected to follow same success carved by its sibling.

Apart from the looks of the new model, Elantra is expected to boast several world-class advancements like touchscreen entertainment system with satellite navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity. Features like heated door mirrors as well as steering wheel, ventilated front seats, electronic front seats, driver’s seat with memory function, and dual zone climate control are also incorporated within the car. Some of the basic features packed in the model include cruise control, leather upholstery, keyless entry, start/stop function, front and rear parking sensors, automatic hill hold function and panoramic sunroof.

Highlighting the engines of the new Elantra, it is expected that the model will be offered with petrol and diesel motors. The petrol version is likely to be assimilated with a 1.8 litre powertrain, which will have to potential to churn out maximum power of 147 bhp and 177 Nm of peak torque. On the other hand, the diesel model is likely to hold a 1.8 litre common-rail engine, which will also have brilliant output with controlled emissions.

In order to ensure complete safety of its passengers, the car is likely to be incorporated with some of the advanced safety features. Advancements like Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and seven airbags as standard features, along with driver side’s knee airbag are expected to be packed within the new Elantra. In addition to Elantra’s active safety features, its passive safety advancements have provided the model a 5-star Euro-NCAP safety rating.

The upcoming Fluidic Elantra in India is likely to be offered with a price tag ranging from Rs. 13 lacs and Rs. 16 lacs. In this price range, the car is expected to deliver stiff competition to the likes of Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Skoda Superb, Renault Fluence and Chevrolet Cruze.