Hyundai i30 Gains the Elantra GT Moniker for North America [28 Photos]

The compact hatchback that we came to know as the Hyundai i30 in Europe, Australia and other parts of the world was introduced in North America on Wednesday as the all-new 2013 Elantra GT.

Set to make its world premiere later today at the Chicago Auto Show, the GT expands the range of the Elantra offering Hyundai a direct rival to the Ford Focus, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza and Volkswagen Golf hatchbacks.

The only visible styling changes over its European counterpart concern the repositioned fog lamps on the front bumper and the addition of two large cup holders on the lower section of the center console behind the transmission.

The Elantra GT rides on a 104.3-inch wheelbase and has an overall length of 169.3 inches, while the height is 57.9 inches and the width is 70.1 inches.

At least for now, there’s only one engine option for American buyers, the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder unit with 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque found in the sedan.

The GT can be equipped with a six-speed manual or a an automatic with the same number of gears. In both cases, the Elantra GT’s standard fuel economy is an estimated 28mpg city, 39mpg highway and 32mpg combined offering a highway-only driving range of more than 500 miles and combined city/highway driving range of up to 448 miles.

All models will come standard with a 172-watt audio system with six-speakers and iPod, USB and auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth hands-free system with voice recognition, a cooled gloved box, heated front seats, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and seven airbags.

U.S. Sales are expected to begin this summer.

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