Hyundai launches the neo fluidic Elantra in India

Though the 'Elantra' brand is not new in India, most of the people don't quite remember the model as it was short-lived and pulled out of showrooms due to lackluster sales. And those who do, do not remember it for the right reasons. In short, the fourth generation Elantra didn't help build Hyundai's image in India as the company hoped it would. Six years later, the Elantra, currently in its sixth generation rises again from the ashes to conquer the market. Yes, Hyundai launched the all-new Elantra here on Monday (August-13-2012) in 3 petrol and 4 diesel variants. When we spotted the new Elantra testing without camouflage a couple of months back, we knew the launch was close and we were right. While the petrol variants are priced between INR 12.51 Lakhs and 14.74 Lakhs, the diesel variants are priced between INR 12.91 Lakhs and 15.85 Lakhs. Sensing the diesel craze in our market, Hyundai has smartly introduced a base diesel variant, while the other three variants S, SX and SX AT are common between petrol and diesel.

Just like all recent Hyundais that came with 'Fluidic Sculpture' design philosophy, the new Elantra looks absolutely stunning from all angles. When we said way back in 2010 during its unveiling that this Elantra was the best-looking Hyundai and the finest form of fluidic sculpture to date, not many believed us. Now, going by the reviews and reports of the model in press, we think that most of the expert's views matches with what we said then. If Indians liked the fluidic Verna which we are sure they did, they will just love the fluidic Elantra. Period. Though the hexagonal grille, stretched headlights and upward-sloping profile bears a slight resemblance to the Verna and Sonata, look closely and you will be able to appreciate the finer details. While the Verna is a tad too small and the Sonata a trifle big, the Elantra's proportions seem to be just perfect for those fluidic cuts and creases that adorn the car. For us though, the curvy taillight clusters are the highlight of the new Elantra. In terms of design then, the Elantra scores a perfect ten.

The diesel variants come with the 1.6-liter CRDi engine with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) that produces 128 PS of maximum power at 4000 rpm and 26.5 kgm of peak torque at 1900-2750 rpm. Since this is the same engine that powers the Verna, those who were expecting a bigger engine or a higher power output under the hood would be disappointed. The petrol variants are offered with a 1.8-liter VTVT engine that churns out 149.5 PS of maximum power at 6500 rpm and 18.1 kgm of maximum torque at 4700 rpm. Both the engines are available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. As is customary with all Hyundais, the Elantra is loaded to the hilt with features that includes ventilated seats, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), six airbags, Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, 10-way adjustable driver's seat, dual zone climate control, Hill Start Assist Control, auto cruise control, Alternator Management System (AMS) and solar glass for windshield and doors.

We will reserve our judgement on the ride and handling until we get to drive one on the road but we don't expect anything more than the traditional Hyundai traits of a plush ride and a not-so-sporty handling. As an overall package, it looks as if Hyundai has all the bases covered for a successful re-entry into the premium midsize segment. Will the Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cruze, Skoda Laura, Volkswagen Jetta, Renault Fluence and Honda Civic leave enough space for the new Elantra to join the party? Unlike the last time, will the Elantra be successful in its endeavor this time around? Will it finally bust the myth that Hyundais costing above 12 Lakh Rupees just wouldn't sell in India no matter how good they are? This car has to answer all these and much more. The fact that Hyundai has decided to launch the new model with the 'Elantra' nameplate itself and not any new 'i' nomenclature goes to show that they are confident of its success. We have no reason to believe otherwise.