This may be the worst year ever for the auto industry (though sales in the past few months have actually been high) with the MCO forcing a shutdown of businesses and factories. Production was affected and sales too were virtually non-existent for at least one month. Nevertheless, the government’s assistance in the form of sales tax exemption seems to have helped to encourage people to buy new vehicles.
For Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM), that’s good news since it has had a number of brand new models in the pipeline and next month, it will launch yet another one – the 7th generation Hyundai Elantra. The popular global model of the Korean carmaker was among the early ones to be launched online as the typical live launch was not possible due to the pandemic and lockdown situation. Hyundai broadcast the new Elantra’s launch worldwide from Hollywood on March 17, and 9 months later, it will be in Malaysian showrooms.
Parametric Dynamics in design
As with the recent new models, the Elantra gets a distinctive new look with adoption of Hyundai’s new design language. This design language uses ‘Parametric Dynamics’ for a futuristic look. The 3-dimensional design is carefully crafted like a well-cut jewel with stark wide side lines.
The coupe-like body is longer, lower, and wider compared to the 6th-generation model with the front cowl point moved back around 50 mm. These minor changes dramatically changed the shape of the car but had limited impact on cabin space. In fact, Hyundai says most key interior dimensions increased.
Smartstream powertrain
HSDM aims to position the new Elantra as a trendsetter for C-segment cars. It will come with a 1.6-litre Smartstream powertrain which includes an Intelligent Variable Transmission. The efficient engine new is capable of producing 123 ps/154 Nm.
Low Yuan Lung, MD of Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors, said the new Elantra with its differentiating design ‘will thrill the market’. “The new look, which takes inspiration from geometric crystals’ cut body surfaces, is expected to wow customers due to its uniqueness,” he added.
“Not only does the car exude sophistication and sportiness, but it also offers a fulfilling driving experience,” he promised. “It is fun to drive a car, loaded with a host of safety and convenience features such as parking distance warning and wireless phone charging.”
‘Immersive cocoon’ interior
Besides the striking exterior design, the interior is like an ‘immersive cocoon’ that envelopes the driver. Described as being like entering an airplane cockpit, there is a large interface consisting of two displays – a 10.25-inch Supervision TFT display and an 8-inch floating panel. All information to operate the car and also the infotainments systems is easily viewed.
Hyundai SmartSense to help the driver
The new Elantra will also come with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of driver assistance systems that work together to help the driver avoid an accident. These include automatic emergency braking (AEB) and smart cruise control which will even bring the car to a stop if necessary and automatically resume movement.
HSDM has not revealed the price of the new model other than that its estimated price is ‘RM1XX,888’ (the current Elantra with a 2-litre engine has been priced around RM110,000). Bookings are accepted now with a fee of RM777.
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