Hyundai reveals cutting-edge new Elantra

Hyundai's new-model onslaught continues unabated as the South Korean manufacturer used the Busan motor show to whip the covers off its crucial new Toyota Corolla-rivalling Elantra sedan (known in its home market as the Avante).

The newcomer follows in the wheeltracks of the Sonata-replacing i45 and it's due here in 2011 (after launching in Korea in the second half of this year).

Although the all-new Elantra's revamped styling is clearly evident from the accompanying images, Australian spec levels will obviously be announced closer to the local launch date. That said, the Korean-spec car packs a high-tech 1.6-litre direct-injection engine and a six-speed automatic transmission -- a rarity in its price segment.

The new drivetrain is claimed to be 10 per cent more frugal that its competitors, not only as a result of its direct-injection and six-speed auto, but also due to new friction-reducing measures such as CrN (Chromium Nitride) 'Physical Vapour Deposition' (PVD) and 'Diamond Like Carbon' (DLC) coatings.

The 1.6-litre unit ekes out 103kW and 167Nm, putting it on par with the Corolla's larger 1.8-litre engine, which serves up 100kW and 175Nm. However, Toyota's volume-seller makes do with a basic four-speed auto.

Among the Elantra's other trump cards vis-a-vis the opposition are high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, LED tail-lights, heated rear seats, puddle lamps and a colour TFT LCD information screen within the instrument panel.

Like its i45 sibling, the fifth-gen Elantra is distinguished by Hyundai's so-called 'fluidic sculpture' design language, which brings cab-forward proportions and an elaborate mix of curves and creases. It's certainly distinctive, standing well apart from the ho-hum Corolla and most other small-car offerings.

Its arrival in Australia will strengthen Hyundai's presence in the small-car ranks, building on the momentum provided by the lauded i30, which has been a real success story for the brand.

The i30 notched up 8720 sales during the first quarter of this year, a tally eclipsed only by the Mazda3 (10,175 sales) and Toyota Corolla (9308 sales).

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