2018 Hyundai Elantra GT: An Upgraded Compact Hatch Packed With New Technologies

Feb 19, 2017 11:50 AM EST | Carl Anthony Teves

The all new 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT will be arriving at dealerships this spring, just in time to take on with the Honda Civic hatch and Chevrolet Cruze hatch. This new model highlights an upgraded engine and a new look that differs it from the other entries in the Hyundai lineup.

The automaker said that the 2018 model was based on the next-generation Hyundai i30. The car didn't adopt the horizontal-slatted grill of the old previous model and instead got a brand new cascading grille design. Equipped with slender new lights, it complements a sleek, long hood and a short rear overhang. Hyundai said that the new model is lower, wider and longer compared to the previous model.

The all new 2018 Elantra GT is powered by a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine. However, this new model drops from 173 hp to 162 hp. A six-speed automatic and six-speed manual are also offered.

The new model's taillights now look softer and rounder. The automaker also updated the bumper, the license plate holder, the rear hatch, and the handle.

On the inside, an updated 8-inch infotainment screen replaced the old 7-inch unit. The automaker also changed the location of the infotainment system, instead of putting on the dashboard, a thin screen now stands by at the front and center. Controls and buttons were rearranged to look cleaner.

The new model's other features also include a standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging and a dual-zone climate control. Customers will have access to safety features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot detection, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control with stop/start capability.

In addition, Hyundai also upgraded the remote start with climate control features so that owners can activate the back defroster and heated side mirrors before they step into the car. It's also equipped with Alexa, a personal assistant offered on the Amazon Echo or Dot, to set the car's temperature.

The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT's starting price starts at around $20,000. It may be more expensive than the Elantra sedan's $17,985 base price, but the GT will prove that every penny is worth it by its updated practicality and style.

 

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