2018 Hyundai Accent & Elantra GT Unveiling – Video

The popular subcompact car has been totally redesigned, starting with its chassis, which uses more advanced high-strength steel. The result is a stiffer chassis, which should improve driving dynamics, isolate noise better, and absorb energy better in a crash, all without adding too much weight. The suspension has also been tweaked to improve ride comfort, handling, and stability, and Hyundai says the steering is also more precise.

The powertrain hasn’t changed too much, with the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 132 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque, which is actually less than before. What has improved is the engine’s powerband, which will make highway passing less stressful.

Transmissions are still a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, but the auto box has been improved to be more efficient and it now comes with a Sport mode. Hyundai says fuel economy has improved 7 percent.

 

 

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2018 ELANTRA GT

-Lower, wider, more aggressive stance
-European styling
-Nearly 25 cubic feet of behind rear seat storage
-Standard vertical LED daytime running lights
-Standard eight-inch display audio with Apple CarPlay and Android –Auto integration
-Available dual-zone climate control
-Available high and low beam LED headlights
-Available wireless smartphone charging
-Amazon Alexa Blue Link remote starting
-Blue Link heated features

For 2018, choose between two inline-four-cylinder engines in the Elantra GT. The efficient yet robust, direct injection 2.0-liter makes an estimated 162 peak horsepower. It mates to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Opt for the GT Sport and get the 1.6-liter turbo engine found in the Elantra Sport and enjoy an estimated 201 peak horsepower along with a broad band torque peak of 195 pound feet. The six-speed manual is available here too, or an athletic, seven-speed dual-clutch gear box.