2011 Hyundai Elantra (USDM): Officially Revealed

Nothing new to see here today. The embargo on the all-new 2011 Hyundai Elantra for the North American market has been lifted today, ahead of the car's scheduled unveiling later this week at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. But does that really matter when it has been on sale in its home market (as the Avante) for numerous months now? Nonetheless, we tip our hats to Hyundai for keeping the new Elantra relatively unchanged from its Korean counterpart.


The biggest news of the all-new Elantra, other than its widely-adulated design, is what's under the hood. Powered by Hyundai's brand-"Nu" 1.8-liter 4-cylinder, the new Elantra makes 148-hp at 6500 rpm and 131 ft-lbs of torque at 4700 rpm. Perhaps more impressive is the fact that with that power output, coupled with a standard 6-speed transmission (manual or automatic) the car will achieve 29-mpg city and 40-mpg highway. And even more impressive is the fact that the figures apply to all trim levels of the Elantra, negating the need for a special high-mileage trim like the Chevrolet Cruze Eco.

Just two Elantra trim levels will be offered: GLS and Limited, with all models getting features like power windows with driver’s auto-down, remote keyless entry, six airbags and disc brakes at all corners. Limited models add items like fog lights, heated mirrors, a sunroof, 17-inch aluminum wheels (15-inch steel wheels are standard), leatherette door inserts, a leather-wrapped telescopic steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, heated leather front seats and even heated leather rear seats.

Thankfully Hyundai also offers a packages for the base GLS model including a Popular Equipment Package that adds cruise control, A/C, a telescopic steering wheel and 16-inch steel wheels. A Preferred Equipment Package adds on 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio controls, a Bluetooth hands-free phone system with voice recognition, a sliding center armrest and some upgraded interior trim. A Navigation package can also be had with a 7-inch monitor, while the Limited Premium Package includes items like a 360-watt audio system, as well as a “proximity key” and push-button ignition.

Stay tuned for news on pricing with the official reveal this Thursday at the LA Auto Show.