Hyundai freshened the Elantra for 2014 giving it a sportier look and improving its performance.
Boasting multiple design changes and a more powerful engine, Hyundai unveiled the refreshed 2014 Elantra at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
The updated Elantra features 75 additional or redesigned pieces, according to Mike O’Brien, Hyundai Motor America vice president of product development.
“It’s more than just a facelift,” said O’Brien, who noted that while the Elantra has held its own in the compact segment, including cars such as the Mazda3, Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai was committed to make significant improvements in the 2014 model.
The 2014 Elantra exterior was completely redesigned front and back and the interior was also upgraded with a series of changes that improved the ergonomics inside the cabin, O’Brien said. Hyundai also went out of its way to update the steering and suspension to improve the Elantra’s ride and handling, he added.
It also will come with upgrades in navigation and audio technology designed to enhance the driver’s time in the vehicle. The new technology features easier to use interfaces, an enhanced voiced recognition system and an integrated rearview camera that will be standard on all Elantra models. Pandora Radio is also available now.
Hyundai also has added new hill-start control, a new driver’s blind spot mirror and the new generation Hyundai Blue Link System as standard equipment.
The South Korean automaker also is making a 2.0-liter GDI – gasoline direct injection – engine capable of producing 173 foot horsepower and 154 foot pounds of torque available on the Elantra. The optional 2.0-liter engine available in the “Sport Trim” adds 25 hp and is mated to a six-speed transmission that achieves an EPA-estimated 24 city mpg and 35 highway mpg.
Hyundai also has updated the Elantra Coupe with sport-tuned suspension and steering systems to sharpen the car’s performance on challenging roads.
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The other changes include the addition of a rear spoiler, a new grille face with chrome accents. The Elantra Coupe also gets the updated navigation and audio system, going into the sedan.
The five-door Elantra GT also is updated with the addition of the 2.0-liter engine, the updated navigation and audio systems and a new sophisticated suspension tuning.
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The Elantra GT’s broad use of high strength steel helps the overall performance of the suspension. At 2,908 pounds, the Elantra GT is lighter than most of the competition, O’Brien said. At the same time, it has room for seating for four or five passengers, according to Hyundai engineers.