Compact sedans don’t usually stir the soul for us motoring-minded enthusiasts out there, as buyers of models like the Toyota Corolla, tend to tick boxes labeled ‘economy, price, a-to-b transport and follow the sheep’.

Hyundai’s segment offering – the Elantra sedan, also fall into this category. However, the Korean manufacturer is intent on making their entrant stand out above the competition; and going by recent spy shots of next generation version – they may well just be on the right track.

Design:

From our spyshot-based digital rendition, first impressions are that Hyundai have toned down the sweeping and expressive bodywork of the 2014 Elantra. This change has now brought maturity to the design, utilising the company’s new ‘Fluidic Precision’ design language. 
What isn’t toned down is that bold new front-end; inspired by the Genesis and 2015 Sonata, a large trapezoidal grille and vertical lower intake slats make for a decidedly European, Audi-like look.

This lean new fluidic aesthetic also improves the side profile, with clean shoulder-lines and straighter door scallops helping emphasise the matured approach. The daylight opening area is similar to the out-going Elantra – retaining that sleek, coupe outline.

Under The Hood:

Don’t anticipate massive changes here; at the least, there will be an continuation of the current 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter GDI engine options. Expect some minor tweaks to these units for improved economy and CO2 emissions.

Although it hasn’t been confirmed; a smaller, turbocharged four may make an appearance to help tackle the likes of Ford’s EcoBoost offerings. Power will be sensibly sent to the front wheels via a six speed manual or automatic.

Platform & Handling:

The 2016 Elantra will utilise the same platform as the current car, however major changes will see the addition of more high-strength steels to aid chassis stiffness and crash worthiness – the latter will especially need to be improved to gain a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

These improvements will also provide a solid base for a revised suspension and steering setup – which is desperately needed as the outgoing Elantra falls short on those twisty mountain roads.  
Market Positioning:

Elantra sits amongst an ultra-competitive compact sedan segment; fortunately for Hyundai it’s also an rather beige segment, so its handsome 2016 offering should do rather well.

What may be an hindrance is the loyal following that other compacts have – such as Honda’s Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Kia Forte, Subaru Impreza and Mazda3. Arguably, the Mazda sits at the top of this bunch in driving dynamics and is what Hyundai ought to be benchmarking.

Expect Hyundai’s compact challenger to debut later this year or early 2015 as an MY2016 model.

Therefore, what do you think of the latest Elantra – does it look the goods, or will it become forgotten amongst the established big sellers?

Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below.

By Josh Byrnes

Photo Renderings Copyright Carscoops / Josh Byrnes

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