Introduction
The sixth generation Elantra was first introduced back in the year 2015, it was designed by a German and engineered by the Koreans. The Elantra is available in three trim levels in Malaysia across two engine choices - the Elantra 2.0 Executive and 2.0 Dynamic powered by a 2.0L DOHC engine producing 152 PS and 192 Nm of torque, and the turbocharged Elantra Sport which is powered by a turbocharged 1.6L engine kicking out 203 PS and 264 Nm.
Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-litre DOHC, 16-valves, transverse
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
- Power: 152Hp at 6,200 rpm
- Torque: 192 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm
- Safety: Six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
- Price: RM116,388 (on the road without insurance)
- Origin: Locally-assembled in Kulim, Kedah
Exterior of the Elantra
The dimensions of the Elantra measures 4,570 mm long, 1,800 mm wide, and 1,450 mm, with a 2,700 mm wheelbase, the Elantra is now 40 mm longer and 15 mm wider than its predecessor before.
If we are to compare it with the Civic, the Korean sedan is 60 mm shorter, and 34 mm lower.
In terms of features, the Executive variant which we tested came with 17-inch wheels, front fog lamps, as well as chromed door handles. Unlike the Dynamic variant, this model does not get a body kit or LED DRLs.
Interior of the Elantra
Like the exterior, the Elantra’s cabin has also been redesigned completely. However it still has lots of rooms for improvement if you were to compared it to the interior found in the Civic or Mazda 3.
The dashboard features a new 7-inch touch-screen which is now able to connect to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Rear passengers would be delighted to know that there are rear air conds vents available as well which would can be quite convenient especially for Malaysian weather which is summer all year long.
The Elantra’s seats are actually one of its key highlights as it has a high hip point. Not only was it easy to get in and out of the car, but the seats also translated to a commanding view of the surroundings.
This is quite an important feature as compared to cars like the Ford Focus and the Honda Civic in which the seats have a lower sitting positions, and would be quite difficult to exit the vehicle from time to time. The Elantra’s rear seats make more sense for a passenger.
On the downside the cabin of the Elantra feels cramped and doesn’t even come close to the roominess found in the Civic. If you are looking for space and roominess, it would be best to consider other alternatives instead.
The new Elantra felt much quieter and refined however it has yet to reach the level of refinement that is found in the Civic or the Mazda 3.
In city traffic, the 2.0-liter engine revved decently and provided adequate power at all times. It responded well during overtaking and accelerating, without us having to put the pedal to the floor every time we needed power.
Power delivery was smooth but it wasn’t mind-blowing, as it still shows signs of struggles when driven more aggressively around bends and tight corners, unlike its turbocharged sibling which is much more eager. In terms of overtaking it isn’t as responsive as the based 1.8S Civic as there is a delay in throttle responds of around a second before it responds to your command.
On highways, the new Elantra felt planted at higher speed, but engine noise and road noise were still audible.
Summary
If your looking for a car that is more focused with the performance and design in mind then the Elantra would be the car for you. Otherwise you could always consider other options such as the Honda Civic or the Mazda 3 in the market.
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