Look at that. Do you know what that is? That’s progress on wheels right there. The future of affordable, enthusiast-oriented cars for everyone. That’s the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport.
Why does a four door compact sedan from a Korean car company warrant such praise? First off, Hyundai Motor America might be subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co of Korea, but the Elantra, and the larger Sonata, are built in Montgomery, Alabama. Both are indisputably American automobiles, built here, and designed with American consumers in mind.
Both have enjoyed mainstream success thanks to their great value, but are hardly cars that come across as ‘fun to drive.’ Hyundai is looking to change that with the Elantra Sport, and win over enthusiasts that need a more practical vehicle than a Genesis Coupe.
Hyundai has been designing sharp looking cars for the better part of a decade now, and the new Elantra Sport is a new high in the non-luxury segment. Sporting a large blacked grille with subtle chrome accents, faux air ducts, and a decent rear diffuser, the Elantra Sportlooks quick, but will it be quick?
With a 1.6-liter Turbocharged GDI four-cylinder making more than 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, one has to think that it will be. Drivers can choose between a dual-clutch seven speed automatic with paddle shifters, or a six speed manual that comes with a nifty looking shift knob, not to mention the sense of pride in knowing you’re actually driving the car, not operating it.
An independent multi-link rear suspension will undoubtedly give the Elantra Sport better road manners, but until we know what kind of tires are coming on the car, probably best to manage our expectations. One thing is for sure, the Elantra Sport has a great looking interior; nicely bolstered sport seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum pedals, red accent stitching, and Apple CarPlay make this a place you could enjoy spending some time in. All I really want to know is this: will it come in hatchback form?
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