Hyundai has wasted no time. After introducing the “regular” 2021 Elantra, the Korean automaker has announced that a “warmer” version is coming in the form of the Elantra N Line. Previewed by these camouflaged photos, the Elantra is getting its first N Line treatment. With that, it gets specific upgrades to its design, chassis, and engine—but all short of the full N treatment.
It must be reiterated that the “N Line” sits directly below the “N” brand. Whereas the N brand develops high-performance versions of existing Hyundai cars, the N Line simply adds sporty design elements and further refinements to its chassis and powertrain.
The Hyundai Elantra N Line is expected to bow in around the same time as the “regular” Elantra compact sedan.
Aside from debuting an all-new platform and a striking new look, Hyundai is pushing tech as one of the Elantra’s key pillars. And one of its more unusual features is this: the Hyundai Digital Key. Found already in the Sonata, the Elantra will be the first compact sedan that will allow owners to swap their traditional car key for a smartphone app. Using a dedicated mobile app, Near Field Communication (NFC), and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tech, the Elantra can be unlocked, started, and driven even without a physical key present.
Currently applicable for Android smartphones (tough luck Apple boys), the Digital Key also allows friends and family to “share keys” securely.
Owners can tailor the different vehicle functions available to each shared virtual key, and the key can be made available for only a defined amount of time. The vehicle owner can preset the duration of vehicle use or limit the use to only certain features when loaning the vehicle, and keys can also be revoked remotely.
And for additional convenience, such as using a valet service or visiting a dealer, the Hyundai Digital Key also works with an NFC card, which is provided with each vehicle.
Hyundai says the tech is secure since it uses Near Field Communication or NFC. NFC wireless data communication takes place only when the device and the reader are placed several centimeters apart.
Of course, the Elantra will still come with a set of traditional keys for those who don’t want to go this high-tech route.
COVID-19 isn’t stopping Hyundai from pulling the covers off the all-new 2021 Elantra compact sedan. Marking the world debut of the Hyundai’s popular compact sedan, the Elantra showcases Hyundai’s latest ambitions including a new design language, hybrid-electric tech, and a segment first wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The all-new seventh-generation Elantra rides on a new vehicle platform with a longer wheelbase, wide stance, and lower roofline. The four-door coupe look gains around 56 mm in overall length, 20 mm in wheelbase, while its width is up by 25 mm. The overall height has also dropped 20 mm.
Designers phrase the all-new Elantra’s design as “Parametric Dynamics.” The unconventional lines, using surfaces that look like geometric crystals and divided body surfaces are meant to break a taboo in automotive design. Having three lines meet at one point is a main ingredient in making the colorful parametric dynamics of Elantra.
At the front, the jewel-like grille hides the turn signals, while the wide, cascading grille integrates the headlights. At the side, the parametric-jewel body surface is evident on the driver’s door, while at the back, is a wide horizontal line that extends across the center of the trunk. A high-tech “H-Tail Lamp,” creates a flying H logo-like shape, while wheel sizes measure from 15 to 17 inches.
Inside, the 2021 Elantra takes on an “immersive cocoon” layout. Low, wide structures go from the door all the way to the center console. The low, wide structure also provides ample interior room (bigger than the outgoing model, actually). A large interface consisting of two harmoniously connected 10.25-inch displays enhances the futuristic feeling of the car. The angled touchscreen is easy for the driver to see and control. Features include Qi wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and even a Bose sound system.
At its launch, Hyundai’s all-new compact sedan is powered by the Kona’s 2.0-liter Atkinson Cycle engine with 147 horsepower 179 Nm of torque. This is mated to the in-house developed continuously variable transmission called IVT. More importantly, it debuts a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain option for the first time. The Elantra Hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor. Combined, it makes 139 horsepower and 264 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 6-speed dual clutch automatic.
Underpinning the Elantra is Hyundai’s K3 vehicle platform. This third-generation vehicle platform not only dramatically enhances the overall design driving performance, but is also stronger and weighs less. The suspension is tuned to minimize unwanted body roll, while still maximizing wheel impact absorption. It also offers a fully independent multilink rear suspension (at least in the Elantra Hybrid) for a sportier drive.
Production of the 2021 Elantra starts in the fall in Ulsan, Korea and at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, and sales begin in the fourth quarter globally.
Hyundai Motor revealed today the first images of the all-new 2021 Elantra. The upcoming seventh-generation Elantra showcases an edgy and aggressive look based on parametric shapes and textures, which reflects Hyundai’s new design identity. The world premiere press conference will take place next week.
The all-new 2021 Elantra’s design accentuates its progressive and exotic character through Parametric Dynamics. Cutting-edge engineering solutions and design innovations actualized the polyhedral appearance. Essentially, advanced digital design technology brought the Parametric Dynamics design language to life. Having three lines meet at one point is the main element of Parametric Dynamics. This formation is a daring challenge, which has been avoided in car design, marking Elantra’s disrupter-spirit.
The ‘Immersive Cocoon’ interior layout creates a driver-focused user experience. Low and wide structures go from the door and connect all the way to the center console, while the large interface consisting of two harmoniously integrated displays elevates the racing-inspired feel of the car.
