It was not too long ago that we showed you images of the upcoming Hyundai Elantra Sport. Thanks to an eagle-eyed Spy, we provided you with a first look at Hyundai’s all-new attempt to grab marketshare.
After offering the rather quirky Veloster that had mixed results in The States, the company is going a more traditional route. By giving its very popular sedan a more sporting look and more powerful engine, it’s clear that the Korean automaker is going after the likes of the Volkswagen Jetta GLI and Honda Civic Si — we’re awaiting the latest sporty Civic now that the all-new generation is here.
Hyundai Elantra Sport
What you’ll find is a rather enticing 1.6-liter four-cylinder mill good for 200 horsepower and 190 lb.-ft. of torque in the Elantra Sport. Mated to this will be either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
On the inside you’ll find a red contrasting stitch, more aggressively bolstered seating and a “D-cut” steering wheel — flat-bottomed, in lay terms.
So, what do you make of this all-new entrant, Spies? Is this enough to color you interested? Is the all-new Hyundai Elantra Sport a STUD or DUD?
Hyundai Elantra Sport
Hyundai's press release follows:
2017 HYUNDAI ELANTRA SPORT UNLOCKS PASSION, POWER AND PERFORMANCE
1.6 Turbo GDI engine and independent multi-link rear suspension highlight the most powerful and dynamic Hyundai Elantra ever
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., July 12, 2016 – Today at a meeting of the Washington Automotive Press Association in Alexandria, VA, Hyundai Motor America unveiled the all-new 2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport. The most powerful Elantra model ever, the Sport benefits from a variety of important powertrain, chassis and styling upgrades over the current SE, Eco, and Limited models.
The Elantra Sport is powered by a 1.6 Turbo GDI four-cylinder engine generating more than 200 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque. Drivers may choose between a six-speed manual transmission or seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters. Helping to ensure the most powerful Elantra ever is also the most fun to drive, the Sport is exclusively outfitted with an independent multi-link rear suspension designed to elevate on-road dynamics and feel. Finally, Elantra Sport is visually differentiated with unique bodywork and model-specific interior appointments such as a flat-bottomed steering wheel, sport seats and red contrast stitching.
“Elantra Sport demonstrates our commitment to providing drivers with compelling vehicle choices that align with their interests,” says Mike Evanoff, Hyundai Motor America manager of product planning. “This is a vehicle that reflects our own passion for cars and driving, expressing it with sharp looks, proven in-car technology, upgraded power, and fun, sporty handling.”
The Hyundai Elantra Sport will arrive in North American showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2016. Additional details, including full specifications and pricing, will be available closer to the on-sale date.