A new direction

Hyundai’s launch statement for its all-new Elantra was: ‘Out with the old and in with the new’ is true in most respects. It seems to have toned down on that boring, jelly-mould styling, but it’s still not quite as chic as rivals like the Mazda3 and Mitsubishi Lancer.

Under the bonnet it also has an all-new 16-valve 1.6-litre twin-cam engine with CVVT (Constantly Variable Valve Timing), which improves engine dynamics for better control over valve timing, offering more power, better economy and reduced emissions. Peak power is now up by 13kW to 89kW at 6200rpm, while maximum torque is up by 10Nm to 153Nm at 4200rpm.

Another improvement for better reliability is the replacement of the cam-belt drive with a timing chain.

Though the improvements result in a smoother and more high-revving engine, the Elantra is now also bigger than before and therefore heavier. In fact, the 2002 model weighed a lithe 1161kg, which is some 40kg less. The result is that even though it ranks in the upper end of the 1.6-litre engine brigade in output terms, it ends up somewhere in the middle in performance terms. To be kept in mind is that much of the weight is not due only to its larger size, but also via the higher spec levels and improved occupant safety.

However, driving the new Elantra proved pleasurable with its fine throttle response and an engine willing to perform well throughout the rev range. Though the habit to sometimes stall proved annoying, it can be overcome becoming accustomed to the car and making the necessary ‘pulling-off’ adjustments to counter it.

The Elantra 1.6 handles as well as any segment rival with road manners, feel and road-holding of a high order. This comes via the avant-garde suspension layout of Macpherson struts at the front and multi-link at the rear to offer low un-sprung weights that result in an ultra-positive road feel; the layout also better stabilises the car under heavy braking -especially on poorly surfaced roads, which is further improved by the anti-lock electronic brake pressure distribution system.

Cabin finish and styling is smart and modern and compares well with the best in the market segment. This is via the high level of standard equipment, including remote-controlled central locking, audio controls on the steering wheel, power windows, fog lights front and rear and crash bags for driver and front passenger

Safety measures are also improved to stay in line with world trends, with crumple zones and load diffusing paths as well as up-rated bulkheads, pillars and side impact structures. In fact the Elantra received a five star NCAP rating in the United States for frontal impact on the driver and passenger side.

As a mid-size, spacious and affordably-priced sedan, the new Elantra should now attract the more discerning buyers into the fold. While it may not be cheaper than its rivals as it was in the past, the new Elantra has caught up with the pack in every respect barring brand prestige.

You might have doubts about its resale value, but if you’re planning to buy a car for the really long haul, it makes a lot of sense when you consider that it has a five-year/150 000km warranty and 3-year/60 000km full maintenance plan.