LA Auto Show: 2014 Hyundai Elantra Gets Some Ch-Ch-Changes

Hyundai has decided that after three years since the introduction of the current-generation Elantra, it was time to give it some updates. Today at the LA Auto Show, Hyundai has done just that with the introduction of the 2014 Elantra lineup. What changes did Hyundai make to their popular compact car? Read on to find out.

The Look

Hyundai made a number of changes to the Elantra sedan's exterior, lending it a fresh look. The front end gets a tweaked front fascia with a new bumper, grille, and projector headlights with LED accents. Along the side profile is a new chrome beltline accent and alloy wheels, ranging from fifteen to seventeen inches. The back gets wrap-around taillights and a blacked-out diffuser.

New for the 2014 Elantra sedan is the introduction of the Elantra Sport. The Sport gives the Elantra an exciting edge with minor design tweaks such as two-tone seventeen-inch alloy wheels, an exposed single exhaust tip, and rear spoiler.

Not to be left out, Hyundai made some minor changes for the 2014 Elantra Coupe and GT hatchback. The Coupe will get projector headlights with LED accents as an option, while LED taillights are optional on the coupe and GT.

The Inside Story

The 2014 Elantra sedan and coupe see major changes with their interiors. To start, both models see the center stack changed somewhat with relocated HVAC vents and two new headunits; a 4.3-inch color-screen radio and a seven-inch touchscreen radio with navigation. Both headunits also come with a backup camera. The HVAC controls see a change with a new display. The sedan and coupe also get Hyundai's BlueLink telematics system as an option.

The sedan sees a few other changes such as aluminum door sills on the Sport and Limited, and aluminum pedals on the Sport.

Under The Hood and Skin

Possibly the biggest change for the Elantra lineup is the introduction of a new 2.0L GDI four-cylinder engine that produces 173 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque. Compared to the current 1.8L MPI four-cylinder, the 2.0L produces 28 more horsepower and 24 more pound-feet. The 2.0L will be available with a six-speed manual or automatic. The Elantra Sport sedan, Coupe, and GT will get the 2.0L as standard equipment. Those who opt for the Elantra SE or Limited sedan will get the 1.8L.

The Elantra sedan also sees changes in the suspension and steering. The SE and Limited get softer front springs, unique settings for the dampers, and the driver selectable steering system which allows a driver to vary the weight of the steering. The Elantra Sport adds a stabilizer bar, unique settings for the dampers, and a single steering tune to amp up the sporty-ness.

Hyundai has also made an effort to reduce engine, wind, and road noise in the Elantra. Engineers added more sound deadening material and increased the thickness of the carpet and padding in an effort to reduce noise.

Finishing off the changes for the 2014 Elantra are Hill-Start Assist Control for the sedan and blind-spot mirrors for all Elantras.

The 2014 Elantra lineup arrives at dealers in December.