The 2019 Hyundai Elantra sedan emerges with a dynamic redesign and a suite of sophisticated technology, reinforcing its position as a compelling option in the compact car segment. Hyundai’s commitment to driver assurance is evident through the integration of Hyundai SmartSense safety and convenience technologies, designed to provide a more secure and intuitive driving experience. This enhanced Elantra, slated for release in Fall 2018, builds upon the model’s established reputation for reliability and value.
Exterior Design Overhaul
The 2019 Hyundai Elantra showcases a refreshed exterior, marked by significant design alterations to create a more assertive and modern aesthetic. The front fascia receives a comprehensive update, featuring a new hood, front fenders, and a redesigned grille and headlight configuration. These changes contribute to a sharper, more confident front profile.
Moving to the rear, the 2019 Elantra presents a redesigned trunk, taillights, and rear fascia. This rear transformation complements the front-end changes, resulting in a cohesive and contemporary overall design. New wheel designs are also introduced, with 16- and 17-inch options, alongside a unique 15-inch alloy wheel design specifically for the Eco trim. For the Limited and Sport trims, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra elevates its visual appeal with the inclusion of LED headlights, adding a premium touch and improved nighttime visibility.
Interior Refinements and Comfort
Inside the 2019 Hyundai Elantra, notable changes focus on enhancing the driver and passenger environment. The center cluster is newly designed, integrating air vents, AVN/Audio/Temperature controls, and a storage tray into a more streamlined and ergonomic layout. The instrument cluster and housing have also been updated, contributing to a more modern and user-friendly cockpit.
Hyundai SmartSense: Elevating Safety in the 2019 Elantra
A key highlight of the 2019 Hyundai Elantra is the expanded availability of Hyundai SmartSense safety technologies. Recognizing the critical role of advanced safety features, Hyundai has made SmartSense options more accessible across the Elantra lineup. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), and Driver Attention Alert (DAA) are now standard on SEL trim levels and above, encompassing a significant 75 percent of the Elantra models.
These intelligent safety systems are designed to proactively assist drivers and mitigate potential hazards. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist is engineered to detect vehicles ahead and provide warnings to the driver in potential collision scenarios. The system can also initiate automatic emergency braking to help avoid or lessen the severity of rear-end collisions. Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) supports the effectiveness of such systems, indicating a substantial reduction in rear-end collisions associated with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) technologies, both of which are integral to Hyundai’s FCA.
Lane Keep Assist actively monitors lane markings and can provide steering inputs to help prevent unintentional lane departures when the vehicle speed exceeds 40 mph. Driver Attention Alert monitors driver behavior and can issue audible and visual warnings if it detects signs of driver fatigue or inattentiveness. Given that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) attributes a large percentage of serious vehicle crashes to human error, these technologies offer valuable support in enhancing driver awareness and safety.
For the 2019 Hyundai Elantra Limited trim with the Ultimate Package, Safe Exit Assist (SEA) is added to the SmartSense suite. SEA enhances passenger safety by alerting occupants to approaching vehicles from the rear when exiting the vehicle, particularly useful in urban environments with bicycle lanes or street traffic. Furthermore, the Limited trim with Ultimate Package includes an advanced Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system with Pedestrian Detection, utilizing both radar and camera sensors to detect vehicles and pedestrians and apply emergency braking if necessary, providing an extra layer of protection. Additional SmartSense features available include Blind-Spot Collision Warning with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist, further bolstering the 2019 Hyundai Elantra’s safety credentials.
Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2019 Hyundai Elantra debuts with Hyundai’s next-generation AVN 5.0 infotainment system, representing a significant upgrade in technology and user experience. This system boasts a faster processor for improved responsiveness and features a larger 8-inch touchscreen compared to the previous 7-inch screen. Navigation becomes more intuitive with enhanced features like a bird’s eye view for maps and real-time traffic flow and incident data via HERE HD Traffic, accessible without a subscription. The system streamlines media access by combining AM, FM, and SiriusXM channels onto a single, user-friendly screen.
Standard features across the 2019 Hyundai Elantra range include a 5-inch color audio system and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines. Bluetooth and steering wheel audio controls are now standard even on the SE manual trim. Higher trims offer further enhancements, such as the Blue Link® Connected Car System with complimentary services for three years on the Value Edition, Qi wireless charging on the Limited trim, and an optional 8-inch Multimedia Navigation System with faster processing, Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ compatibility. Audiophiles will appreciate the available Infinity premium audio system with eight speakers, including a center channel and subwoofer, offered on the Limited trim. Smart Shift Drive Mode, available on SEL trims and above, allows drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Engine Options and Performance of the 2019 Elantra
The 2019 Hyundai Elantra provides a range of engine choices to cater to diverse driving needs and preferences. The SE, SEL, and Limited trims are powered by the Nu 2.0L MPI Atkinson Cycle engine, delivering 147 horsepower. For enhanced fuel efficiency, the Eco model features the Kappa 1.4L Turbo-GDI engine, producing 128 horsepower and achieving an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined fuel economy, thanks to its 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The sporty 2019 Hyundai Elantra Sport trim, set to debut later in 2018, retains its performance-oriented 1.6L Turbo-GDI engine and offers a choice between a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Sport trim distinguishes itself with sporty interior accents, sport seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and multi-link independent rear suspension, enhancing handling and driving dynamics.
2019 Hyundai Elantra Trim Levels
The 2019 Hyundai Elantra is available in six trim levels: SE, SEL, Value Edition, Eco, Limited, and Sport, offering a variety of features and equipment to suit different buyer needs and budgets. Detailed specifications for each trim level are readily accessible online via Hyundai’s resources.
In conclusion, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra represents a significant evolution of the model, with its striking design updates, advanced Hyundai SmartSense safety technologies, and enhanced infotainment features. Building upon the Elantra’s established reputation for value and reliability, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra is well-positioned to remain a strong contender in the competitive compact sedan market, offering a compelling blend of style, safety, technology, and efficiency for discerning drivers.
