Hyundai unveiled the redesigned Elantra last night and it promises to be a major improvement of its predecessor.

However, much of the initial focus is on the car’s design since the company bills the model as an everyday four-door coupe. With that in mind, we decided to see how it compares to its predecessor.

Despite adopting the Korean firm’s new “Sensuous Sportiness” design, the redesigned Elantra is instantly recognizable as it features an evolutionary grille which appears shorter and wider than before. The angular accents around the air intakes also carryover, but feature a more modern design.

Also Read: 2021 Hyundai Elantra Debuts With Four-Door Coupe Styling, New +50 MPG Hybrid Variant

The headlights are also sleeker, but the decision to put the turn signals in the grille is still a bit perplexing. There’s also no mistaking the 2021 Elantra for anything else as it boasts a massive Hyundai logo at the base of the hood.

Bigger changes occur out back as redesigned model boasts more complex bodywork and heavily stylized (or is that wrinkled?) doors. The Elantra also has a sloppier roofline, a new greenhouse and a more dynamic C-pillar.  Elsewhere, there’s an angular trunk with new taillights which are connected by an illuminated stripe.

Let’s move inside

While the exterior has received a mixed reception, the cabin has been well received as it appears to be a major improvement over the older model promising higher quality materials, a more modern design and advanced technology.

Drivers sit behind an all-new steering wheel and find themselves looking at a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. To their right is either an 8- or 10.25-inch infotainment system with support for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Below, there are slender air vents that appear to span the width of the dashboard thanks to the clever use of metallic trim. Drivers will also find updated switchgear, a new shifter, and a more premium center console.

The powers that be

Under the hood, there’s a familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS) and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to an intelligent variable transmission which has a new shift control strategy that “improves linearity between driver inputs, vehicle behavior and acceleration.”

It’s joined by a new hybrid variant which has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, an electric motor and a 1.32 kWh lithium-ion battery. This gives the car a combined output of up to 139 hp (104 kW / 141 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque. While it’s less powerful than the standard model, it has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of more than 50 mpg, with final figures to be announced at a later stage.

The 2021 Elantra will arrive at dealerships this fall but, in the meantime, feel free to tell us which one you like better.