Hyundai decided to give one of its best-known sedans an important twist. The brand presented in South Korea the new generation of the Avante, the name under which that model is marketed in its local market and which will serve as the basis of the next Elantra destined for other countries, including the United States.

The eighth generation arrives with a much more modern proposal both outside and inside. The manufacturer not only completely modified the appearance of the vehicle, but also took advantage of the renovation to incorporate new digital solutions and an artificial intelligence system that promises to transform the interaction between the driver and the car.

Although there is still no confirmed date for its arrival in the US market, everything indicates that the international version will retain much of the design and technologies presented in Korea.

A more robust and sophisticated silhouette

The new Elantra leaves behind the lines of its predecessor to adopt a more solid and sporty image. Hyundai baptized this aesthetic proposal as “Art of Steel”, a design language that combines clean surfaces with marked lines to convey greater presence.

The front incorporates a new “H”-shaped LED light signature, while the back repeats that same resource to give it a more recognizable visual identity. There are also more muscular fenders, a longer hood, flush handles, more stylized side mirrors, 18-inch wheels and a discreet spoiler effect integrated into the trunk lid.

The dimensions also increase. The sedan reaches 187.6 inches in length, 73.0 inches in width and a wheelbase of 108.3 inches, figures that allow it to offer a more spacious cabin for occupants.

Technology focused on experience

The interior was designed to offer a cleaner and more modern feel. The distribution of the elements favors the driver, while the passenger area uses shapes inspired by contemporary furniture to create a more comfortable environment.

Among the main new features is the Pleos Connect system, a platform developed by Hyundai on Android Automotive. Its great attraction is the incorporation of Gleo AI, an assistant based on generative artificial intelligence.

This system can hold natural conversations, answer questions, recommend routes, help plan trips and adapt various vehicle functions according to the user's preferences. In addition, it incorporates Pleos App Market, an application store from which it will be possible to download entertainment services and other compatible tools.

Two engine options

The mechanical offer will be made up of a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 149 horsepower and a hybrid variant that combines a 1.6-liter Smartstream engine with improvements in the electric motor, transmission and battery to achieve a combined power of 157 horsepower.

The hybrid version also incorporates the Smart Regenerative Braking 3.0 system, capable of automatically regulating regenerative braking using traffic and navigation information to improve energy efficiency. Added to this is a parking mode that allows you to use functions such as the climate control and the multimedia system by taking advantage of battery power without keeping the gasoline engine running permanently.

Hyundai confirmed that equipment levels, official consumption figures and prices will be revealed first for South Korea during the third quarter of the year. The presentation of the new Elantra for the United States still has no date, although it is expected to retain practically all the new features shown in this first presentation.