Hyundai has been busy lately. Recently, the company revised its lineup with more crossovers, then debuted the new 2020 Sonata, and now it unveils the 2021 Hyundai Elantra compact sedan. Among a segment replete with hallmark options like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Mazda3, among others, the new Elantra looks to stand out with its improved dimensions and completely overhauled interior tech.
Even with customers switching to compact crossover options like the Venue, Hyundai still sees a need for its two best-selling sedans. As with the Sonata, Hyundai adds a smattering of new technology and features to the Elantra once reserved for pricier vehicles in the hopes of expanding its customer reach. This includes standard wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, dual 10.3-inch displays, and the first Elantra Hybrid model. But the changes start with a sleeker design.
The 2020 model is widely regarded as a downgrade in the looks department. So in some ways, Hyundai restores what once was with the new Elantra. Removing the pointy, stubby looks of the current car, Hyundai replaces them with a more flowing, elegant design partially inspired by the Sonata.
This is doable thanks in-part to a new platform underpinning the Elantra, which stretches the wheelbase nearly an inch, and adds 2 inches in overall length. The new Elantra gets wider and lower, with a shorter front overhang to help transform its look. Hyundai says the new car achieves a “four-door coupe aesthetic,” which is a vague term, but speaks to its sleeker look. Regardless, we call the new body lines and revised lighting design a big improvement.
Even with its lower coupe-like roof, the new Elantra matches the front and rear headroom of the current car by lowering its seating position. Legroom stays class-competitive with 42.3 inches in the front and 38 inches in the rear.
