Chicago 2012: Hyundai reveals Elantra coupe, hatchback
Printer-Friendly Version
Hyundai has expanded the Elantra's lineup by adding a sport coupe and five-door hatchback variant to the already popular sedan model.
Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, the Hyundai Elantra coupe and hatchback continues the Korean carmaker's signature fluidic sculpture design language.
Hyundai says while the coupe offers many of the same attributes that made the Elantra sedan a success, it widens the nameplate’s reach by going after "youthful, sporty buyers willing to forgo four-door versatility for coupe design appeal."
Although the Elantra coupe's front fascia mirrors that of the sedan's, its body sports a dynamic, wedge-like profile that's accentuated even further by the sharp angles of the A- and C-pillars. Wheel arch creases give a subtle flared appearance around front and rear wheels for a wide and aggressive presence while a beveled rocker panel and 17-inch alloy wheels round out the lean and muscular effect. Completing the Elantra coupe's dynamic look are the blacked-out rear diffuser valance, dual chrome-tipped exhaust tips and the lip spoiler design element on the deck lid.
Powering the Elantra coupe is the same 1.8-liter Nu engine in the sedan that produces 148hp and 178Nm of torque while paired to it are either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
The Elantra GT five-door hatchback, meanwhile, is technically the American-market version of the i30 Hyundai debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show last September 2011.
Powered by the same powertrain as the sedan and coupe, the Elantra hatchback offers more interior space than most of its rivals at 3,369 liters while still being the lightest five-door in the compact segment with a 68kg weight advantage over its closest competitor.
"Elantra GT is a fun-to-drive, functional, five-door compact hatchback," said Hyundai Motor America's vice president of product and corporate planning, Mike O’Brien. "Elantra GT is the latest example of how Hyundai is redefining the compact car and setting new standards in automotive design, efficiency and functionality."
Do you think Hyundai Asia Resources, the authorized distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the Philippines, should also bring the coupe and hatchback into the country to support the sedan's sales?
