2011 Hyundai Elantra Revealed

Hyundai has revealed the 2011 Elantra ahead of the vehicle's 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show debut. However, we have to mention that the vehicle didn't have too many secrets anyway, as the carmaker already offered us multiple chances analyzing it, through the release of the Korean market version of the model (called Avante), which came earlier this year.

Hyundai has chosen to use the "fluidic sculpture" design language for the Elantra, offering the vehicle a special image that managed to capture our imagination. The Elantra now uses this new family identity, which is shared with the revamped Tucson and Sonata.

The company hasn't released the equipment levels and the pricing for the new Elantra, but it should do so before the vehicle's official unveiling in L.A.

The car will use a new 1.8 liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers 148 hp and a peak torque of 131 lb-ft (177 Nm), offering a decent output for this segment. The unit works together with a six-speed automatic transmission to return an impressive fuel efficiency of 28 mpg for the urban cycle and 40 mpg for the highway. The vehicle manages to achieve the figures without using any special eco features that could limit comfort or driving fun.

However, it is curious that Hyundai hasn't used the Avante's direct-injected 1.6 liter Gamma GDI four-cylinder engine that produces 140 hp and a maximum torque of 133 lb-ft (180 Nm).

Hyundai has big plans for the new Elantra, aiming to place the vehicle at the top of its segment, both in terms of styling and efficiency.