Chicago 2012: Hyundai Pulls A Double Punch: Elantra Coupe & GT: Comments

[William Maley]

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William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

February 8, 2012

Hyundai is pulling a double punch at the Chicago Auto Show with two new models of the Elantra; the Coupe and 5-Door GT Hatch.

The Elantra Coupe aims dead straight at the leader of the compact coupe market, the Honda Civic. The coupe wears the same pretty rakish fluidic sculpture sheetmetal as the sedan. Dimension wise, the coupe is the same as the sedan except in length; the coupe is half an inch longer.

Power will come the sedan's 1.8L inline four-cylinder producing 148 HP and 131 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual and automatic are your transmission choices. EPA mileage is estimated at 29 city/40 highway for the manual and 28 city/39 highway for the automatic.

Two trim levels will be available for the coupe; the base GS and sporty SE.

Then there is the 5-Door Elantra GT. We saw this car back at Frankfurt with the i30 name.

Like the coupe, the GT comes with the fluidic sculpture sheetmetal Hyundai is known for. The engine is the same 1.8L inline four-cylinder and a six-speed manual and automatic are available. Fuel economy for the GT stands at 28 city/39 highway MPG.

The GT's suspension is sport-tuned thanks to MacPherson struts up front aided by a stabilizer bar, and a torsion bar setup out back.

Hyundai says the GT interior cargo space is the largest in its class and larger than the Nissan Juke. Standard features include a cooled glovebox, heated front seats, 10-way power driver's seat, leather seating surfaces, automatic headlights, Bluetooth and seven airbags.

The Coupe and GT arrive at Hyundai dealers sometime in the summer.

Press Releases are on Page 2 & 3

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HYUNDAI ADDS SPORT COUPE VARIANT TO ITS AWARD-WINNING ELANTRA LINE-UP

North American Car of the Year Winner adds Sport Coupe Design and Technology Chemistry to the Proven Elantra Formula

CHICAGO, Feb. 8, 2012 – Hyundai today introduced a new sport coupe variant to its industry-leading Elantra line-up at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. This two-door coupe model of the Elantra sedan, available this spring, will attract even more buyers to the Elantra line-up, further expanding its appeal to savvy consumers. It offers many of the same attributes that made the sedan version a sales success, while broadening its market reach to youthful, sporty buyers willing to forgo four-door versatility for coupe design appeal. The 2013 Elantra Coupe marks the continuing evolution of Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design theme with sporty design language, while assuming a compact coupe segment leadership position with an eco-efficient powertrain, generous convenience features, exceptional roominess and abundant safety features.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2013 ELANTRA COUPE

• Unique “Fluidic Sculpture” two-door coupe design language
  
• 1.8-liter “Nu” Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) engine
  
• In-house-developed six-speed manual and automatic transmissions
  
  • 40-mpg highway rating (estimated) on M/T model
    
  • Eleven percent more fuel efficient than Honda Civic Coupe M/T
    

  [*]Longer wheelbase, overall length and width than Civic Coupe for a more comfortable, roomy interior cabin

  [*]Standard VSM, ESC, TCS, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD

  [*]7-inch touch-screen navigation with rearview camera and iPod^®/USB inputs

  [*]Bluetooth^® hands-free phone system with voice recognition

  [*]Proximity-key entry with electronic push-button start

Elantra Coupe is the latest vehicle in Hyundai’s 7/11 product initiative (seven new models in the next eleven months), following the Azera and Genesis Coupe.

The 2013 Elantra Coupe represents a modern approach to the sporty coupe segment, using youth-oriented design and premium features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition. The 2013 Elantra Coupe poses intriguing questions:

• Why can’t a sporty coupe combine generous interior space with sleek design?
  
• Why pay premium coupe prices to get advanced safety and technology features?
  
• Why can’t a fun-to-drive sporty coupe offer 40-mpg fuel economy?
  

“FLUIDIC SCULPTURE” DESIGN LANGUAGE

Elantra Coupe takes Hyundai’s dynamic “Fluidic Sculpture” design principles to the next level. “Fluidic Sculpture” design language replicates the interaction of wind with rigid surfaces to create a perception of fluid in motion.

Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front fascia opening and jeweled swept-back headlights give Elantra Coupe a lean, aggressive demeanor. Fog lights and available side mirror repeater lamps complement the view from the front.

From the side, Elantra Coupe conveys a wedge-like sport coupe silhouette with deeply sculpted surfaces. SE model sporty five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with dark spoke inserts add a dynamic presence, while fast A- and C-pillar angles frame a sharply tapered greenhouse, further accentuating the wedge profile. Just below the belt line, a prominent character line carries from the door through to the rear deck. Wheel arch creases give a subtle flared appearance around front and rear wheels, for a wide and aggressive presence. Further, a beveled rocker panel rounds out the lean and muscular effect.

From the rear, a blacked-out rear diffuser valance contrasts with dual chrome-tipped exhaust tips, and the SE model deck lid incorporates a lip spoiler design element.

These sculpted surfaces serve to create a highly aerodynamic body. The drag coefficient for the Elantra Coupe is an exceptionally low 0.28 Cd, resulting in minimal cabin noise intrusion and optimal fuel economy. Elantra Coupe was designed at Hyundai's North American Design Center in Irvine, Calif.

40-MPG POWERTRAIN

Under the hood, the Elantra Coupe is powered by the same 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower (estimated) and 131 lb-ft of torque (estimated) found in the Elantra sedan (145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque for Elantra Coupe PZEV). This high power-density 4-cylinder puts out a full six percent more horsepower than the Civic Coupe 1.8-liter. Thanks to advanced clean engine technology, most Elantra Coupes sold in California, Oregon and several Northeast states are certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) by the EPA. The PZEV Elantra Coupe is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles, without the extra technological complexity and cost. The PZEV Elantra Coupe helps Hyundai meet and exceed its environmental requirements. Outside of these “green” states, the Elantra Coupe is available as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV).

Elantra Coupe 1.8-liter Dual CVVT (Nu Engine Family)

Key Engine Components

• Aluminum block and head
  
• Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT)
  
• Variable Induction System (VIS)
  
• Roller swing arm and Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLA)
  
• Electronic throttle control
  
• Offset crankshaft
  

The Nu engine features an aluminum block with a cast-iron cylinder liner, cylinder head and crank. This unique configuration results in a block that is 30 percent lighter than an iron block, shedding more than 74 pounds of engine mass, while still providing equivalent strength.

The 1.8-liter Nu also offers Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) camshafts and hydraulic engine mounts for optimum power, efficiency and refinement. Using D-CVVT on both camshafts has several advantages when compared with using it just on the intake camshaft. These advantages include a two-percent improvement in performance (via increased volumetric efficiency), two-percent improvement in fuel economy (via reduced pumping losses) and a 30 percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. In the valvetrain, roller swing arms and hydraulic lash adjusters reduce valve-driven friction to improve fuel economy one percent compared with direct valve tappets. The Nu engine also features a maintenance-free silent timing chain to enhance durability and reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

A plastic two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) enables intake air to be directed between long and short intake manifolds, resulting in a broad, linear power band. This results in a four-percent improvement in performance, a 15 percent reduction in cost and 30 percent reduction in weight, when compared with aluminum.

Another technology Hyundai engineers have incorporated into the Elantra Coupe is an electronic throttle control. Electronic throttle control replaces the conventional cable and mechanical linkage with instantaneous computerized control. This system accurately controls air intake and engine torque, improving drivability, response and fuel economy.

To further improve fuel economy, Elantra Coupe applies double-pipe plumbing technology to the internal heat exchanger. Double-pipe plumbing improves cabin cooling efficiency, while minimizing compressor size, reducing fuel consumption. In addition, an externally-controlled variable compressor is used to improve fuel efficiency when compared with an internal variable compressor.

The Nu four-cylinder engine also has an offset crankshaft design that reduces friction and pressure between the piston and cylinder wall for a one-percent improvement in fuel economy.

Elantra Coupe’s fuel economy is estimated at 29 mpg city, 40 mpg highway for the six-speed manual transmission, and 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway for the six-speed automatic transmission. These ratings give Elantra Coupe a highway-only driving range of up to 500 miles.

ELANTRA COUPE POWERTRAIN ADVANTAGES

2013 Elantra Coupe

2012 Civic Coupe

2012 Kia Koup

Engine

1.8L I4

1.8L I4

2.0L I4

HP @ RPM

148 @ 6500 (est.)

140 @ 6500

156 @ 6200

Specific output (HP/Liter)

82.2

77.8

78.0

Torque @ RPM

131 @ 4700 (est.)

128 @ 4300

144 @ 4300

Transmission

6MT or 6AT

5MT or 5AT

6MT or 6AT

MPG (M/T)

29/40 (est.)

28/36

24/33

MPG (A/T)

28/39 (est.)

28/39

25/33

^{Note: ULEV standard engines shown for all models}

SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS

The Elantra Coupe can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC^® manual control. Hyundai now has in-house six-speed automatic transmissions in its small, medium and large FWD cars. Hyundai is also only one of four global car manufacturers building in-house unique six-speed automatic transmissions.

The six-speed automatic is 11 pounds lighter than Hyundai’s global five-speed. It is considerably simpler, having 62 fewer parts, for greater durability, lighter weight and lower cost. It also features an ultra-flat torque converter that shortens the unit's overall length by 0.43 inches, while being 2.6 pounds lighter.

This transmission, mated to the 1.8-liter Nu engine, helps Elantra Coupe deliver improved fuel efficiency – 11 percent more than its closest competitor, the Honda Civic Coupe.

The Elantra Coupe’s six-speed manual transmission offers positive shift feel and further optimizes powertrain performance. Shifting performance is facilitated by durable triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, with double-cones for third gear and a single-cone for fourth, fifth and sixth gears.

OVERALL DIMENSIONS

The Elantra Coupe rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase, an overall length of 178.7 inches, 69.9-inch width, and 56.5 inch height for uncompromised headroom. Elantra’s total interior volume of 110.2 cubic feet exceeds the 2012 Honda Civic Coupe and 2012 Kia Forte Koup by large margins and is surprisingly larger than the 2012 Honda Accord Coupe. The Coupe’s long wheelbase allows for compact coupe efficiency with class-above relative comfort levels. Elantra Coupe’s trunk volume at 14.8 cubic feet also beats Civic Coupe and Kia Forte.

VOLUME COMPARISON

2013 Elantra Coupe

2012 Civic Coupe

2012 Forte Koup

Passenger volume

^{(cu. ft.)}

95.4

83.2

90.7

Cargo volume

^{(cu. ft.)}

14.8

11.7

12.6

Total interior volume

^{(cu. ft.)}

110.2

94.9

103.3

EPA size classification

Mid-size

Compact

Compact

ELANTRA COUPE ARCHITECTURE

The Elantra Coupe is fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is a lightweight coupled torsion beam rear design for enhanced steering stability and monotube shock absorbers for ride comfort and control. A substantial 22.0-mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll and turn-in response when cornering. Steering knuckle design, torsion beam rigidity and damper tuning have all been recalibrated for sportier handling and steering responsiveness compared with Elantra sedan. In addition, Elantra Coupe offers a sportier SE model suspension calibration that is optimized for its lower-profile P215/45R17 tire.

All Elantra Coupes have column-mounted, motor-driven electric power steering (MDPS) that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a hydraulic steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in.

World-class weight efficiency was a key program target for the Elantra Coupe engineering team. As a result, Elantra Coupe leads the Kia Koup in weight efficiency, while leading the Civic Coupe in power-to-weight ratio; both are key measures of overall powertrain and structural efficiency.

POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO COMPARISON

Coupe

M/T Curb Weight

^(lbs.)

Horsepower

Power-to-weight ratio

^(lbs./HP)

Elantra Coupe

2,687

148

18.2

Honda Civic Coupe

2,594

140

18.5

Kia Koup

2,737

156

17.5

High-strength steel in Elantra Coupe’s structure allows the suspension to work with precision in all driving conditions. This weight-efficient unibody architecture allows for Elantra Coupe to achieve an estimated 40-mpg EPA highway rating, without the need for a special eco model and its incremental costs.

SPORTY, SOPHISTICATED INTERIOR

Inside the Elantra Coupe, customers will find Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, lighting, leading-edge design and craftsmanship. This approach is visible in gauge clarity and the tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Seat construction uses lightweight materials and environmentally-friendly foam for further benefits to fuel efficiency. Elantra Coupe seat design also provides deeper side bolsters compared with Elantra sedan for sportier driving. Heated seats are standard equipment on all Elantra Coupes, while the SE model offers sporty aluminum pedals.

The Elantra Coupe offers two interior color choices, gray and black, available with either the GS or SE trim. All Elantra Coupes have cloth-like pillar trim made of fibrous tissue and volcanic rock for a premium look, feel and minimal environmental impact. Elantra Coupe will offer seven exterior colors, three of which are unique from Elantra sedan color choices: Monaco White, Black Noir Pearl and Volcanic Red.

Elantra Coupe is available with two audio systems. Standard is a 172-watt AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod^®/USB/auxiliary input jacks. A 360-watt system with external amplifier is optional with the SE Technology package.

Touch-screen navigation is available on SE trim and includes a high-resolution 7.0-inch screen and voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone. The sound system plays compact discs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from select mobile phones to the head unit. The XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos, real-time NavTraffic and XM Data services, such as XM NavWeather^®, XM Stock Ticker and XM Sports Ticker. The system also integrates a rear-view camera, which cannot be found on the Honda Civic Coupe or Kia Koup. Users can even upload personal pictures from a USB rather than a CD to be displayed on the system’s home screen.

Elantra Coupe owners can also get premium features, such as proximity key with push-button start, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, power sunroof, and dual automatic temperature control with Clean Air Ionizer and auto-defogger.

ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES: PART OF HYUNDAI’S ASSURANCE COMMITMENT

The Elantra Coupe takes compact coupe safety to the next level with the introduction of Vehicle Stability Management (VSM). Similar to the one found in the Hyundai Equus, VSM optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS).

VSM works to control two effects. The first is when a driver accelerates or brakes on a split-mu surface (slippery on one side, dry pavement on the other) and the vehicle wants to pull in one direction. VSM detects this condition and sends a signal to the MDPS to apply steering assist. VSM counters the pull and automatically provides eight Newton meters of counter steering force. VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering.

Elantra Coupe features six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbag.

The Elantra Coupe also features a state-of-the-art braking package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on vehicle loading conditions and driving dynamics.

Elantra Coupe engineers even looked at something as simple as the parking brake for an integrated rear parking brake caliper for weight reduction.

In terms of passive safety, the Elantra Coupe has strong unibody construction, along with front and rear crumple zones to effectively absorb and dissipate impact energy away from cabin occupants.

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ELANTRA GT MAKES NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW

Fun-to-Drive, Unsurpassed Fuel Economy and Five-Door Versatility

CHICAGO, Feb. 8, 2012 – Hyundai Motor America today introduced the all-new 2013 Elantra GT in a North American debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Elantra GT brings five-door functionality and European driving dynamics to the expanding Elantra lineup and is slated to hit dealerships this summer. The lineup now includes Elantra Coupe - also making its world debut today and the popular Elantra sedan, the 2012 North American Car of the Year. Elantra GT is based on the new-generation i30 model designed for the European market.

“Elantra GT is a fun-to-drive, functional, five-door compact hatchback,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, Product and Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Elantra GT is the latest example of how Hyundai is redefining the compact car and setting new standards in automotive design, efficiency and functionality.”

The 2013 Elantra GT will compete with the Ford Focus, Mazda3 and Volkswagen Golf, featuring more interior volume than these models, unsurpassed fuel economy and Hyundai’s Driver Selectable Steering Mode.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2013 ELANTRA GT

• ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design
  
• Powered by an advanced 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and in-house six-speed automatic or manual transmission
  
  • Horsepower: 148 at 6,500 rpm (ULEV)
    
  • Best-in-class standard fuel economy estimated at 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway (M/T)
    
  • Best-in-class specific output at 82.2 horsepower per liter
    

  [*]Lightest five-door hatchback in the compact segment

  [*]Sport-tuned suspension

  [*]More passenger and cargo volume than Focus, Mazda3, Golf and Matrix

  [*]Driver knee airbag- an Elantra first

  [*]Hidden rear camera

  [*]More aerodynamic than Impreza, Matrix or Golf

Elantra GT is the third vehicle in Hyundai’s 7/11 product initiative (seven new or redesigned models in the next 11 months). The first two vehicles in the initiative were the Veloster Turbo and refreshed Genesis Coupe. The fourth vehicle is the Elantra Coupe.

FURTHER EVOLUTION OF ‘FLUIDIC SCULPTURE’ DESIGN

The new Elantra GT represents further evolution of the Hyundai form language, ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ - the company's distinctive design DNA. The ‘Fluidic’ essence provides the Elantra GT with a slippery .30 coefficient of drag. Everything about Elantra GT is aerodynamic from the aggressive profile and low overall height, to the sleek side mirrors. Tire gaps are minimized while rocker panels are streamlined. Lower wind resistance translates into better fuel economy and a smoother ride.

2013 Elantra GT

2012 Matrix

2012 Mazda3

2012 Focus

2012 Impreza

2012 VW Golf

Coefficient of drag

0.30

0.33

0.29

0.30

0.33

0.32

Up front, Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille with chrome accents flows into the hood. The bodyside graphic features a chrome beltline molding to keep up with the sleek character lines. Sharp projection headlamps, fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels with chrome spears complete the modern design.

BEST-IN-CLASS STANDARD FUEL ECONOMY

Elantra GT’s standard fuel economy is an estimated 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 32 combined with the six-speed automatic transmission or manual transmission. These figures give Elantra GT a highway-only driving range of more than 500 miles and combined city/highway driving range of up to 448 miles.

LIGHTEST FIVE-DOOR HATCHBACK IN THE COMPACT SEGMENT

Elantra GT’s widespread use of high-strength steel provides a 37 percent increase in body stiffness at a lower body weight when compared to the outgoing Elantra Touring model. High-strength steel allows the suspension to work optimally. At 2,784 pounds, the automatic transmission Elantra GT is lighter than its competitors, while offering more interior room than Focus, Mazda3, Golf and Matrix. Elantra GT is the lightest five-door hatchback in the compact segment. It is 175 pounds lighter than Focus, 151 pounds lighter than Mazda3 and 222 pounds lighter than Golf. This weight-efficient unibody architecture allows for Elantra to achieve an estimated 39 mpg EPA highway rating, without the need for a special eco model. Elantra GT’s best-in-class fuel efficiency is driven by the Blue Drive strategy. A key to Elantra GT’s extensive use of high-strength steel is an $8 billion dollar investment Hyundai made to become the only global automaker with its own fully integrated steel plant. Hyundai has 400 metallurgists focused on the task of developing optimized steel recipes for every part and panel in new vehicle architectures.

Classification of High Strength Steel

Percentage

High Tensile

36

Ultra High Tensile

21

Total High Tensile Steel

57

MODERN POWERTRAIN

Under the hood, Elantra GT is powered by a 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque (145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque for Elantra PZEV). Thanks to advanced clean engine technology, most Elantra GTs sold in California, Oregon and several Northeast states are certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) by the EPA. The PZEV Elantra GT is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles, helping Hyundai meet its environmental commitments. Elantra is also available as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Additionally, Elantra GT has an ActiveECO System that modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response and increase real-world fuel economy by up to seven percent.

Key Engine Components

• Aluminum block and head
  
• Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT)
  
• Variable Induction System (VIS)
  
• Roller swing arm and Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLA)
  
• Electronic throttle control
  
• Offset crankshaft
  

The Nu engine features an aluminum cylinder head, crank and block with a cast iron cylinder liner. The 1.8-liter Nu also offers Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) camshafts and hydraulic engine mounts for optimum power, efficiency and refinement. Using CVVT on both camshafts has several advantages when compared with using it just on the intake camshaft. With D-CVVT, there is a two percent improvement in performance (increased volumetric efficiency), two percent improvement in fuel economy (reduced pumping loss) and a 30 percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. In the valvetrain, roller swing arms and hydraulic lash adjusters reduce valve driven friction to improve fuel economy by one percent, compared with direct valve driving. The Nu engine also features a maintenance-free silent timing chain system to enhance durability and improve Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH).

The application of a composite resin two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) versus aluminum, enables switching between long and short intake manifolds, resulting in a four percent improvement in performance, a 15 percent reduction in cost and a 30 percent reduction in weight.

Another tool Hyundai engineers have incorporated into Elantra GT is an electronic throttle control. The electronic throttle control replaces the conventional cable and mechanical linkage with fast responding electronics. This system accurately controls air intake and engine torque, improving drivability, response and fuel economy.

The Nu four-cylinder engine also has an offset crankshaft design that reduces friction between the piston and cylinder wall for a one percent improvement in fuel economy.

ELANTRA GT VS. ITS RIVALS

Base Engine

2013 Elantra GT

2012 Matrix

2012 Impreza

2012 Focus

2012 Mazda3

2012 Golf

Displacement

1.8-liter

1.8-liter

2.0-liter

2.0-liter

2.0-liter

2.5-liter

Horsepower

148@6500

estimated

132@6000

148@6200

160@6500

155@6000

170@5700

Torque (lb.-ft.)

131@4700

estimated

128@4400

145 @4200

146@4450

148@4100

177@4250

Power-to-liter

82.2

73.3

74.0

80.0

77.5

68.0

Transmission

6M or 6A

5M or 4A

5M or CVT

5M or 6A

6M or 6A

6M or 6A

Fuel economy

M/T

A/T

(estimated)28/39

28/39

26/32

25/32

25/33

27/36

26/36

28/38

27/38

28/39

23/33

24/31

Curb Weights

M/T

A/T

2,745

2,784

2,844

2,888

2,910

2,976

2,920

2,948

2,896

2,969

2,967

3,023

Power-to-Weight (A/T)

18.6

18.8

21.5

21.9

19.7

20.1

18.3

18.4

18.7

19.2

17.5

17.8

SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS

The 2013 Elantra GT can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC^® manual control. Elantra GT’s six-speed manual transmission provides short, crisp shifts and further optimizes engine performance. These crisp shifts are courtesy of triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, double-cone for third gear and single-cone for fourth, fifth and sixth gears.

INTERIOR SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

Maximizing interior volume and delighting customers with various seating layouts are hallmarks of Hyundai engineering and translate into more cabin room, cargo space and versatility. The Elantra GT features seating layouts that can comfortably seat five people or accommodate four passengers, plus long items like golf clubs or snowboards. Fold down two seats, to seat three people and hold larger packages or fold all of the back seats to get CUV-sized cargo space. These options allow customers to discover that Elantra GT has more interior volume than Matrix, Mazda3, Ford Focus and VW Golf and even more cargo capacity than the Nissan Juke crossover, thanks to fold-flat rear seats and rear seat cushions than can flipped upward.

The Elantra GT includes a number of convenient, standard stowage and storage features, including a sunglasses holder, two front and two rear cupholders, door bottle holders, cooled glove compartment, central console storage, sliding armrest, front storage tray, front seatback pockets and a cargo area under-floor storage. The cargo area also has a 12-volt outlet for consumers who desire an outlet to plug in their portable electronic devices.

Volume

2013 Elantra GT

2012 Toyota Matrix

2012 Mazda3

2012 Ford Focus

2012 Subaru Impreza

2012 VW Golf

Passenger Volume

96 cu. ft.

94 cu. ft.

95 cu. ft.

91 cu. ft.

98 cu. ft.

93 cu. ft.

Cargo Volume

23 cu. ft.

20 cu. ft.

17 cu. ft.

24 cu. ft.

23 cu. ft.

15 cu. ft.

Max. Cargo Capacity (Seats folded down)

51 cu. ft.

49 cu. ft.

43 cu. ft.

45 cu. ft.

52 cu. ft.

N/A

Total Interior Volume

119 cu. ft.

114 cu. ft.

112 cu. ft.

110 cu. ft.

120 cu. ft.

108 cu. ft.

ELANTRA GT ARCHITECTURE

Elantra GT is fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension, with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is comprised of a light weight coupled torsion beam for enhanced steering stability and monotube shock absorbers. A 22 mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering. Elantra GT is tuned for added feel, responsiveness and control, while the Elantra sedan is tuned for comfort. Modifications to the GT include higher rear spring rates, a stiffer twist beam and Sachs dampers for improved body motion control. These changes create driving dynamics which are sporty and comfortable. In addition, two suspension packages were developed to optimize tuning for the two different tire sizes. The Elantra GT’s Style package offers a sportier suspension calibration that is optimized for its lower-profile P215/45R17 tire.

Behind the wheel, drivers benefit from Hyundai’s all-new Driver Selectable Steering Mode. With three operating modes to select - Comfort, Normal and Sport - this innovative system allows drivers to adapt Elantra GT steering characteristics to varying driving preferences and road conditions any time they choose. Comfort level offers the greatest ease of steering and is ideal for city and parking environments. Sport is optimized for higher-speed highways or winding roads, while Normal is ideal for a mix of driving conditions. The Driver Selectable Steering Mode not only adjusts power assistance levels in each mode, but also on-center build-up feel and steering build-up curves throughout the steering range, for a very natural, progressive feel. Steering damping characteristics, active return gain, and high frequency friction levels have also been optimized for Elantra GT in this system. Even more, Elantra GT’s turning diameter of 34.8 feet is better than Matrix, Focus and Golf.

OVERALL DIMENSIONS

The all-new Elantra GT rides on a 104.3-inch wheelbase and has an overall length of 169.3 inches. The height is 57.9 inches and the width is 70.1 inches.

CABIN REFINEMENT

Cabin refinements on the all-new Elantra GT are inspired by the high standards of the entire Hyundai lineup. Located in the center console, the available navigation system is displayed via a seven-inch touch-screen and incorporates the rearview camera screen. Elantra GT’s rearview camera is like no other. This mechanized camera is hidden behind the Hyundai flying H badge on the rear hatch and only appears when needed.

Dual-zone climate controls ensure a comfortable environment for all occupants during long journeys, and the addition of a panoramic sunroof provides increased natural light within the cabin. The Dual-zone climate controls also incorporate an automatic defogging system, which detects humidity levels using a sensor and removes it from the windshield. Another premium feature in the Elantra GT is a CleanAir Ionizer that automatically cleans the air when the heater or air conditioner is running.

Elantra GT comes standard with a 172-watt AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod^®/USB/auxiliary input jacks. A Bluetooth interface is also standard. The sound system plays compact discs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. The SiriusXM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos, real-time NavTraffic and Data services, such as NavWeather^®, Stock Ticker and Sports Ticker. Users can even upload personal pictures from a USB rather than a CD to be displayed on the system’s home screen.

Elantra GT offers many premium features, such as:

• Standard cooled glove box
  
• Standard heated front seats
  
• 10-way power driver’s seat including power lumbar support
  
• Clean Air Ionizer
  
• Leather seating surfaces
  
• Automatic headlights
  
• Side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators
  
• Standard steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls
  
• Standard Bluetooth hands-free system with voice recognition
  

HYUNDAI BLUE LINK

Hyundai Blue Link is standard on the 2013 Elantra GT. “Blue Link combines safety, service and infotainment into a complete package that works to both help simplify Hyundai owners’ lives and reduce distracted driving,” said Barry Ratzlaff, director of customer satisfaction and service business development, Hyundai Motor America. “We’ve carefully studied how drivers rely on smart phones and navigation systems as an innovative link to the outside world. Blue Link brings that seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like voice-to-text messaging, POI web search download, turn-by-turn navigation, and monthly vehicle reporting. Our agent-assisted advanced voice recognition system offers a 21st century solution to performing POI searches in the vehicle. This unique and innovative approach enables Hyundai to deliver fast, accurate searches and downloads of POIs to vehicles without traditional operator-only type systems of our competitors.”

Blue Link-equipped vehicles include core safety services for an introductory period. These key safety services include: Automatic Crash Notification (ACN) and Assistance, SOS Emergency Assistance, and Enhanced Roadside Assistance. After the introductory period, owners of Blue Link-equipped vehicles can choose to extend these and other services as desired.

Blue Link Assurance further expands Hyundai’s industry leadership formerly established by Hyundai Assurance, the industry’s most comprehensive suite of new-vehicle protection.

SAFETY FEATURES

The all-new Elantra GT features the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Active safety features include ESC (Electronic Stability Control), ABS (anti-lock braking system) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist and VSM (Vehicle Stability Management). In terms of passive safety, the Elantra GT will be fitted with seven airbags as standard - front, side and curtain including an Elantra-first driver's knee airbag.

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[Drew Dowdell]

I'm thinking Hyundai's claim of "most fuel efficient hatchback" for the Elantra GT has a few asterisks. 39mpg is a great number of course, but the Golf TDi and Pruis C can both to better.

[daves87rs]

Just the GT?

[G. David Felt]

Be interesting to see if anyone pulls what the lady pulled on Honda. Is that same type of lawsuit in the cards for Hyundai?

[smk4565]

Would be nice to see the Veloster turbo engine in the Elantra. But nice to see they added some body styles.

[ocnblu]

Wow mud, thanks for posting about these.

The competition in this class is white-hot and GM is getting left behind after their one giant step forward.

Multiple bodystyles FOR THE WIN.

[pow]

It's a tidy looking car; much better than the sedan.

[Intrepidation]

I prefer the sedan's greenhouse and C-pillar design. The coupe's C-Pillar takes away from the swoopy design. Not ugly but almost more boring. Still, its nice to have choices.