2027 Hyundai Elantra unveiled with radical new look, updated ADAS

Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled the eighth-generation Hyundai Elantra (known as the Avante in South Korea) for the first time at a press conference during the 2026 Busan Mobility Show, held in Haeundae-gu, Busan. Dimension-wise, it measures 4,765 mm long, 1,855 mm wide, 1,425 mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2,750 mm.

Starting with the striking exterior, the design language is based on Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ philosophy, combining refined lines with strong surfaces. The front end features ‘H-edge Lighting’ daytime running lights (DRLs), which form an H-shaped signature with sleek, slim LED elements positioned at both ends. Along the sides, the authentic three-box silhouette is retained, now complemented by muscular front and rear fenders that give the car a wider and more planted stance.

Furthermore, the lift-up flush door handles and bold side skirts add a clean and futuristic look, while the 18-inch wheels feature a five-spoke geometric design that enhances its sporty appeal. At the rear, the ‘H-edge Lighting’ taillights mirror the front-end design, accompanied by a vertical auxiliary brake light, a boot lid spoiler, and a large diffuser, completing the sharp-looking rear fascia.

The interior complements the exterior with refined lines and strong surfaces, now enhanced with modern conveniences, including either a 14.6-inch or 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen (depending on the variant). Combined with physical buttons, the layout provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface.

Under the bonnet are two powertrain options: a 2.0-litre gasoline engine and a 1.6-litre hybrid. The 2.0-litre gasoline model produces 149 PS, representing a 26 PS increase over the previous 1.6-litre gasoline model. The engine is paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), Hyundai’s version of a CVT.

The hybrid model is powered by a Smartstream 1.6-litre gasoline hybrid engine that delivers a combined output of 157 PS, an improvement over the current model thanks to a more powerful P2 electric motor and increased battery capacity.

It also features ‘Smart Regenerative Braking 3.0’, which reduces brake pedal operation by optimising regenerative braking based on traffic flow and navigation information. Also included is the ‘Hybrid Hierarchical Predictive Control System’, which improves fuel efficiency by analysing road conditions to optimise the balance between battery and fuel usage.

The 2027 Hyundai Elantra also comes standard with a comprehensive ADAS suite, featuring new safety technologies such as Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control 2 (NSCC 2), SBW (Electronic Shift Lever) P-stage Emergency Braking, Pedal Misuse Safety Assist (PMSA), and Memory Reversing Assist (MRA). The NSCC 2 in particular automatically decelerates at non-speeding zones, speed bumps, and intersections, and returns to the set speed after passing through the area.