It might not seem like that long ago, but the seventh generation of the Hyundai Elantra was introduced in 2020 (as a 2021MY) which makes it three years old this year. While the model still looks fairly new, Hyundai is working on a mid-lifecycle update as proven by the spy shots of a heavily camouflaged prototype that was caught testing in the US.
While most of the prototype’s bodywork is covered and thick patches of camo are placed underneath the wrap, we can still make out some of the upcoming styling changes.
Read: Hyundai Plays It Straight With Geometric 2025 Santa Fe Replacement
The front end of the Hyundai Elantra appears to be significantly redesigned, with slimmer headlights, and a smaller grille that is now separated from the lower bumper intake and visually connected to the side intakes through a black piece of trim. Judging from the creases on the camouflage, there is a chance that the headlights are connected through an LED bar running just above the grille.
The profile is also covered, probably in a quest to hide the sharp character line on the doors. Hyundai did a pretty good job in covering the tail, with two round holes in front of the LED taillights trying to trick bystanders. The shape of the lighting unis appears to have changed a bit alongside the characteristic sharpness of the tailgate, while the redesigned bumper sports repositioned reflectors.
Our spy photographers didn’t get a proper look inside the cabin, but they managed to nab a shot of the single panel housing the fully digital cockpit, which looks unchanged. Chances are that Hyundai will add new software and change a few things in the interior trim of the model.
We don’t have any information about the powertrain lineup of the updated model but we expect small changes. In the U.S., the standard model is currently available with a 2.0-liter petrol engine producing 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS), and with the more efficient hybrid 1.6-liter engine producing a combined 139 hp (104 kW / 141 PS). There is also the sporty N Line with a turbo 1.6-liter inline-4 producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and the performance flagship Elantra N with a turbo 2.0-liter producing up to 286 hp (213 kW / 289 PS).
The facelifted Hyundai Elantra is expected to debut in late 2023 or early 2024, either as a 2024MY or 2025MY in the US. Note that the model is called Avante in its home market in Korea, while in Australia it goes by the name i30 Sedan. Hyundai decided against offering the Elantra in European markets, due to the declining popularity of the sedan bodystyle.
