Elantra, the 2012 North American Car of the Year and one of the hottest selling cars in the country, will continue its record setting pace with changes for the 2013 model year. On sale now, the 2013 Elantra GLS and Limited lineups will further delight shoppers with new standard and optional equipment.
The 2013 Elantra GLS M/T now comes with the same level of equipment as the 2012 Elantra GLS M/T with Comfort Package. For shoppers, this means the Elantra GLS M/T now comes standard with air-conditioning, 16- versus 15-inch wheels, cruise control, telescopic steering wheel and solar glass with windshield shade band. Heated front seats are also now included on the high volume GLS A/T Preferred Package.Elantra Limited adds a standard power driver’s seat with power lumbar support and an available Dual Automatic Temperature Control with Clean Air Ionizer and Auto Defog System as part of the Limited Technology Package. NEW EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2013 ELANTRA - The GLS M/T base model has been upgraded to include air conditioning, cruise control, 16-inch steel wheels, telescopic steering wheel and solar glass with windshield shade band (2012MY M/T Comfort Package)
- Heated front seats have been added to the GLS A/T Preferred Package
- Power driver seat with lumbar support has been added as a standard feature to the Limited trim
- Dual automatic temperature control has been added to the Limited Technology Package
- Atlantic Blue has been added the color palette
Elantra continues to deliver an EPA certified 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway, producing a highway-only driving range of up to 500 miles. Entering the third model year of sales, no other competitor has yet to offer 40 mpg highway standard for all trim levels. Led by Elantra, sales of Hyundai 40 mpg models (Accent, Veloster, Elantra, Sonata Hybrid) have made Hyundai number one in fuel economy and CO2 emissions in America by topping the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy rankings for the 2010 model year, beating out traditional leaders Honda and Toyota. No automaker scored higher than Hyundai. This is the second time Hyundai has led in both categories, having achieved this distinction previously for the 2008 model year.
The EPA 2011 Light-Duty Automotive Technology and Fuel Economy Trends Report identified Hyundai as the top 2010 brand with an adjusted fuel economy rating of 27.0 miles per gallon. In addition to being named the most fuel efficient brand, Hyundai also had the lowest fleet-wide adjusted composite CO2 emissions performance (329 g/mi) for the 2010 model year.The EPA 2011 Trends Report also indicates that preliminary 2011 model year values suggest that Hyundai will maintain its fuel economy leadership. Forecasts show that Hyundai will achieve an adjusted fuel economy rating of 27.5 miles per gallon in the 2011 model year.Fuel economy is the primary reason for purchasing a new car in the compact segment, especially with gas prices exceeding $4 per gallon in many areas of the U.S. Due to rising fuel costs, more than 60 percent of compact car buyers are downsizing for better fuel efficiency with many of these buyers choosing highly contented vehicles.Elantra also leads its segment in residual value having won the ALG Residual Value Award in the Compact Car segment for the second year in a row. HYUNDAI “FLUIDIC SCULPTURE” DESIGN
Elantra exemplifies Hyundai’s emotional “Fluidic Sculpture” design principles. “Fluidic Sculpture” considers the interplay of wind with rigid surfaces to create the illusion of constant motion. Elantra is an evolution of the design qualities found in Sonata.
Along Elantra’s sides are Sonata’s flowing lines, with the addition of a strong undercut feature line starting at the front door. These lines, along with muscular wheel arches and a sleek roofline, create a memorable and spacious package. Flowing lines also lead to an aerodynamic body. The drag coefficient for the Elantra is an exceptionally low 0.28 that compares favorably to the Chevrolet Volt (0.29).Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front grille and detailed swept-back headlights give Elantra a compact athletic face. The assertive stance is complimented by 16- or 17-inch wheels and athletic proportions. Available fog lights and side mirrors with integrated turn signals complete the distinct design. Elantra was designed at Hyundai's North American Design Center in Irvine, Calif.40 MPG POWERTRAIN
Under the hood, the Elantra is powered by an all-new 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 Elantras sold in California, Oregon and several Northeast states are certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) by the EPA. The PZEV Elantra is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles. The PZEV Elantra helps Hyundai meet its environmental commitments. Outside of these “green” states, the Elantra is available as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). 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. 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 including, 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 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 plastic 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 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 VS. ITS RIVALS
| 2013 | 2012 | 2012 | 2012 | 2012 | 2012 |
| Elantra | Civic | Corolla | Focus | Mazda3 | Cruze |
| Engine | 1.8L I4 | 1.8L I4 | 1.8L I4 | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 | 1.8L I4 |
| HP | 148 @ 6500 | 140 @ 6500 | 132 @ 6000 | 160 @ 6500 | 148 @ 6500 | 136 @ 6300 |
| Specific output (HP/Liter) | 82.2 | 77.8 | 73.3 | 80 | 74 | 75.6 |
| Torque | 131 @ 4700 | 128 @ 4300 | 128 @ 4400 | 146 @ 4450 | 135 @ 4500 | 123 @ 3800 |
| Trans. | 6MT or AT | 5MT or 5AT | 5MT or 4AT | 5MT or 6AT | 5M or 5AT | 6MT or 6AT |
| MPG (A/T) | 29/40 | 28/39 | 26/34 | 28/38 | 24/33 | 22/35 |
| MPG (M/T) | 29/40 | 28/36 | 27/34 | 26/36 | 25/33 | 25/36 |
Note: ULEV standard engines shown for all models
SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS
The 2012 Elantra can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC manual control. This transmission mated to the 1.8-liter Nu engine helps Elantra deliver improved fuel efficiency.
Elantra’s six-speed manual transmission is also all-new and provides 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. OVERALL DIMENSIONS
Elantra is a “class above” when it comes to interior room, in comparison to the new Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. In fact, the Elantra is so roomy the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies it as a mid-size car, not a compact car like Civic and Corolla.
Elantra’s total interior volume of 110.4 cubic feet beats the 2012 Honda Civic sedan, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 2012 Ford Focus and 2012 Toyota Corolla. Surprisingly, it even surpasses the Acura TSX (108.5 cu. ft.), Nissan Maxima (110.0 cu. ft), and VW CC (106.8 cu. ft.) in total interior volume. Ultimately, the long wheelbase allows for compact car efficiency with mid-size car comfort. An example of this is found in the long seat track, delivering best-in-class front seat legroom. Elantra’s trunk volume at 14.8 cubic feet also beats Civic and Corolla.
VOLUME COMPARISON
| 2012
Elantra | 2012
Civic | 2012
Corolla | 2012
Cruze | 2012
Sentra | 2012
Focus |
| Passenger volume (cu. ft.) | 95.6 | 94.6 | 92.1 | 94.6 | 97.4 | 90.7 |
| Cargo volume (cu. ft.) | 14.8 | 12.5 | 12.3 | 15.4 | 13.1 | 13.2 |
| Total interior volume
(cu. ft.) | 110.4 | 107.1 | 104.4 | 110 | 110.5 | 103.9 |
| EPA size classification | Mid-size | Compact | Compact | Mid-size | Mid-size | Compact |
Note: ULEV standard engines shown for all models
ELANTRA ARCHITECTURE
The Elantra is fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is a light weight coupled torsion beam rear suspension for enhanced steering stability and monotube shock absorbers for ride comfort. A 23.0 mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering.
All Elantras have column-mounted, motor-driven electric power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in. Elantra’s turning diameter of 34.8 feet is better than Corolla’s at 35.4 feet.Elantra leads all of its competitors in weight efficiency and power-to-weight ratio.POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO COMPARISON | Vehicle | Curb Weight (lbs.) M/T | Horsepower | Power-to-weight ratio |
| Hyundai Elantra | 2,661 | 148 | 18.0 |
| Ford Focus | 2,907 | 160 | 18.2 |
| Honda Civic | 2,608 | 140 | 18.6 |
| Mazda 3 | 2,866 | 148 | 19.4 |
| Nissan Sentra | 2,873 | 140 | 20.5 |
| Toyota Corolla | 2,734 | 132 | 20.7 |
| Chevrolet Cruze | 3,031 | 136 | 22.3 |
Elantra’s widespread use of high-strength steel provides increased body stiffness at a lower body weight. High-strength steel allows the suspension to work optimally. At 2,701 pounds, the automatic transmission Elantra GLS is lighter than its competitors, while offering more interior room than Focus, Cruze, Civic and Corolla. This weight efficient unibody architecture allows for Elantra to achieve an estimated 40 mpg EPA highway rating, without the need for a special eco model.
MODERN, SOPHISTICATED INTERIOR
Inside the Elantra, customers will find Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, lighting, leading-edge design and craftsmanship. This approach is visible in the clarity of the instruments and the tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The seats are made of lightweight, environmentally friendly foam. Heated seats are available in the front and the rear, a segment first. Not only does Elantra have multiple storage areas, but it delivers useable storage capacity.
STORAGE CAPACITY | Storage area | Elantra | Corolla | Mazda 3 |
| Front console tray | 1500 cc | 700 cc | 400 cc |
| Glove box capacity | 9000 cc | 9000 cc | 5400 cc |
| Console storage capacity | 6000 cc | 4000 cc | 4800 cc |
| Console side tray | 400 cc | 200 cc | N/A |
| Total | 16,900 cc | 13,900 cc | 10,600 cc |
The 2013 Elantra GLS has a two-tone interior with a choice of either gray or beige. The Limited trim adds a monotone black interior. All Elantras have cloth-like pillar trim made of fibrous tissue and volcanic rock for a premium look and feel.
Elantra 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.Touch-screen navigation is available on GLS and Limited trims 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 SiriusXM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos, real-time NavTraffic and XM Data services, such as NavWeather®, Stock Ticker and Sports Ticker. The system also integrates a rear-view camera, which cannot be found on the Honda Civic or Mazda 3. Users can even upload personal pictures from a USB rather than a CD to be displayed on the system’s home screen.Elantra owners can also get premium features, such as a proximity key with push button start and immobilizer, power sunroof, one touch driver’s window and leather seating surfaces. This modern, sophisticated interior is also whisper quiet.NVH COMPARISONS
| NVH* | Elantra | Corolla |
| Idle vibration (Wheel) | 106 | 107 |
| Idle vibration (Floor) | 95 | 96 |
| Idle Noise | 39 | 40 |
| Road Noise | 74 | 75 |
| Interior Noise | 63.7 | 65.3 |
| (Wind Tunnel - dBA @ 68 mph) |
Note: Based on internal tests
ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES: PART OF HYUNDAI’S ASSURANCE COMMITMENT
Elantra has Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) to 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. VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering. Elantra features six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags.
The Elantra 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. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) automatically adjusts the braking force to front and rear axles based on vehicle loading conditions. This package delivers shorter braking distances from 60 miles per hour than Corolla and Mazda 3. Elantra engineers even looked at something as simple as the parking brake, with a rear parking brake caliper for weight reduction.In terms of passive safety, the Elantra has strong unibody construction, along with front and rear crumple zones, and the rear doors have internal dual beams unlike some of its competitors.
Article and image courtesy of Hyundai News.
