The 2017 Hyundai Elantra emerges as a compelling option in the competitive compact sedan segment, delivering a striking combination of value, advanced features, and enhanced efficiency. Arriving at dealerships in January 2016, this all-new model showcases a bold aerodynamic design, a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, a modern and spacious interior, and user-friendly technologies that elevate the driving experience. Building upon the Elantra’s reputation as a best-selling model known for its exceptional value, the 2017 edition takes it a step further by offering even more features at a starting price of $17,150 – a $100 reduction compared to its predecessor. With two new, fuel-efficient powertrains, improved ride quality, and enhanced noise insulation, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra is poised to impress.
Assembled with precision in both Montgomery, Alabama, and Ulsan, South Korea, the 2017 Elantra distinguishes itself from the compact car class with segment-first premium features like the hands-free Smart Trunk and Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology. Beyond convenience, safety is paramount, as evidenced by the availability of a full suite of advanced safety technologies, including Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist. These features contribute to the 2017 Elantra’s anticipated Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), solidifying its position as a leader in vehicle safety.
Confident and Aerodynamic Exterior Design
The exterior of the 2017 Hyundai Elantra exudes confidence and sophistication, characterized by sculpted body forms and smoothly contoured lines. Hyundai designers drew inspiration from the concept of dynamic precision, seamlessly blending advanced styling with functional aerodynamics. This collaborative effort between designers and engineers resulted in an architecture that is both visually appealing and aerodynamically efficient.
2017 Elantra Sedan Front Design: Highlighting Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille, modern HID headlights, and vertical LED daytime running lights.
From the front, the 2017 Elantra is immediately recognizable thanks to Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille. This distinctive grille, combined with modern lighting signatures, creates a strong and memorable first impression. Available HID headlights with Dynamic Bending Lights and unique vertical LED daytime running lights – both firsts for the Elantra – further enhance its contemporary appeal. The sporty lower front fascia incorporates functional front wheel air curtains, a feature originally developed for the Sonata Hybrid. These air curtains strategically manage airflow around the front wheels, minimizing turbulence and wind resistance. Further contributing to the 2017 Elantra’s impressive 0.27 coefficient of drag are underbody covers, an aerodynamic rear bumper bottom spoiler, and a rear decklid designed with an expanded trunk edge.
Sleek Side Profile of the 2017 Elantra Sedan: Demonstrating the vehicle’s character line, sweeping window silhouette, and optional 17-inch alloy wheels.
The 2017 Elantra features a sleek bodyside character line that accentuates its sweeping side window silhouette and striking side profile, adding to its dynamic aesthetic. Available premium features such as stylish 17-inch alloy wheels, all-new LED door handle approach lights, side mirror LED turn signal indicators, and LED taillights with high-tech graphics elevate the sophistication and attention to detail of this class-leading compact sedan. The 2017 Elantra is offered in a palette of eight exterior colors, with five of them being new to the model, allowing for personalization and style expression. The vehicle’s overall length has been subtly increased by just under an inch, and its width has grown by 1.0 inch, resulting in a more athletic stance and a visually stable presence on the road.
2017 Elantra Dimensions: Enhanced Proportions
| Specification (in.) | 2016 Elantra | Change | 2017 Elantra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 179.1 | +0.8 | 179.9 |
| Overall Width | 69.9 | +1.0 | 70.9 |
| Overall Height | 56.5 | – | 56.5 |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 | – | 106.3 |
Modern and Intuitive Interior Design
Stepping inside the 2017 Hyundai Elantra reveals a modern, driver-centric interior designed for intuitive control, enhanced spaciousness, and premium technology features. The interior prioritizes high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces in key touch points, creating an inviting and comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers.
Spacious Interior of the 2017 Elantra Sedan: Illustrating the wide instrument panel, 4.2-inch color TFT LCD display, and ergonomically designed center stack.
The instrument panel’s wide design contributes to a feeling of spaciousness. It is available with a 4.2-inch color TFT LCD instrument display, improving driver visibility and access to essential vehicle information. The center stack adopts a horizontal layout with logically grouped buttons and controls, tilted slightly (seven degrees) towards the driver for optimal ergonomics and ease of use. Premium convenience features further enhance the driving experience, including a segment-first integrated memory system for the power driver seat and side mirrors, dual automatic temperature control with an auto-defogging system, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Advanced ergonomic front seats, featuring high-tension lightweight seat frames for improved collision performance and multi-firmness seat pads to reduce driver fatigue on long journeys, are standard.
All seats in the 2017 Elantra, whether upholstered in cloth or available leather, utilize SoyFoam™, an environmentally conscious seating foam that replaces petroleum-based polyol with hydroxyl-functionalized soybean oil. This material optimizes both mechanical performance and sustainability. For added passenger comfort, available heated front and rear seats and a versatile 60/40 split-folding rear seat are offered. The 2017 Elantra boasts class-above total interior volume, exceeding competitors in its segment with improved front and rear headroom. With a total interior volume of 110.2 cubic feet, the EPA classifies the 2017 Elantra as a Midsize car, placing it in a class above models like the Mazda3, Ford Focus, and even some premium compact cars.
2017 Elantra Interior Volume Comparison
| Specification (cu.ft.) | 2017 Hyundai Elantra | 2016 Ford Focus | 2016 Mazda3 | 2016 Honda Civic | 2016 Toyota Corolla |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | 95.8 | 90.7 | 96.3 | 97.8 | 97.5 |
| Cargo Volume | 14.4 | 13.2 | 12.4 | 15.1 | 13.0 |
| Total Interior Volume | 110.2 | 103.9 | 108.7 | 112.9 | 110.5 |
| EPA Size Classification | Midsize | Compact | Compact | Midsize | Midsize |
2017 Elantra Premium Model Interior Volume Comparison
| Specification (cu.ft.) | 2017 Hyundai Elantra | 2016 Cadillac CTS | 2016 Audi A4 | 2016 BMW 3-Series | 2016 Acura ILX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | 95.8 | 97.0 | 90.6 | 96.0 | 89.3 |
| Cargo Volume | 14.4 | 13.0 | 12.4 | 13.0 | 12.3 |
| Total Interior Volume | 110.2 | 110.0 | 103.0 | 109.0 | 101.6 |
| EPA Size Classification | Midsize | Midsize | Compact | Compact | Compact |
Hyundai engineers prioritized minimizing interior cabin noise and road noise during the development of the 2017 Elantra. To reduce engine sound, a hood insulator is standard on most models. Engineers also reduced the aperture size in the front dash panel by 25 percent, increased the thickness of the front door window glass, and incorporated sound absorption materials in pillars, inner fenders, and the floorpan. Plastic and rubber bushings applied to the front sub-frame and larger bushings on the lower control arm further enhance NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) characteristics, resulting in a quieter and more refined cabin experience.
Refined and Responsive Chassis
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra is lighter than the previous generation model and features a significantly reinforced chassis. The use of advanced high-strength steel has increased dramatically to 53 percent, compared to just 21 percent in the outgoing model. This increased high-strength steel content results in a 29.5 percent stiffer torsional rigidity and 25.3 percent greater bending strength. These improvements contribute to enhanced ride and handling, reduced cabin noise, improved long-term durability, and overall driving performance.
Detail Shot of the 2017 Hyundai Elantra: Emphasizing the vehicle’s badge, front quarter panel, and overall design aesthetics.
Furthermore, the application of structural adhesives has been increased by 40 times at high-stress points on the chassis and in welding areas. These structural adhesives, often used in aerospace applications, further enhance NVH performance and vehicle dynamics by adding extra stiffness to the chassis. Hyundai engineers focused on these chassis enhancements to achieve top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.
Ride comfort, handling, and stability are improved through the 2017 Elantra’s redesigned rear suspension geometry. The angle of the rear shock absorbers has been modified, and the position of the coil springs on the coupled torsion beam axle has been changed. An increase in rear bushing diameter also contributes to improved long-term durability. The front suspension utilizes an optimally designed McPherson strut with coil springs and gas shock absorbers, along with a front stabilizer bar to minimize body roll during cornering. The standard Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system provides responsive steering that adapts to changing driving conditions, enhancing both precision and steering feel while also improving fuel economy. Increased caster contributes to safe and reliable steering feedback at highway speeds.
All-New Powertrains for Enhanced Efficiency and Performance
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra introduces two all-new powertrains designed to optimize fuel efficiency and deliver responsive everyday driving performance. The standard engine, available on the SE and Limited trims, is a 2.0-liter Nu MPI Atkinson four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb. ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm. This Atkinson cycle engine, unique in the compact class for combining this cycle with multi-port injection, improves efficiency by reducing pumping loss through delayed intake valve closing during the compression stroke, maximizing the expansion ratio for greater energy production. The engine also features a high compression ratio of 12.5.
Additional enhancements include intermediate valve cam phasing, which expands the operational range of the intake valves and further reduces pumping loss. High energy ignition coils enhance combustion efficiency through increased spark intensity. A new electronically controlled thermostat reduces pumping energy and allows for higher temperature thermostat operation. Piston cooling jets are implemented to cool pistons by spraying oil at their lower position, improving knock stability and fuel economy. These advancements result in up to a 2.2 percent increase in efficiency, contributing to an EPA fuel economy rating of up to 29 city / 38 highway / 33 combined mpg for the 2017 Elantra SE with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder engine is paired with either a standard six-speed manual transmission (available only on the SE trim) or Hyundai’s next-generation six-speed automatic transmission. The new automatic transmission enhances dynamic performance and improves overall efficiency by 3.3 percent. A new valve body improves gear shift responsiveness and control, while an optimized oil pump size enhances operating efficiency. A multi-clutch torque converter adds greater lock-up control, and double angular ball bearings minimize rolling resistance and friction.
The second powertrain option is an all-new 1.4-liter Kappa turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine, available on the Elantra Eco trim. This engine produces 128 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a robust 156 lb-ft. of torque across a wide rev range from 1,400 to 3,700 rpm. It is mated to an EcoShift seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Elantra Eco trim is projected to achieve an outstanding estimated 35 mpg combined rating based on internal testing, making it a leader in fuel efficiency.
Engine Compartment of the 2017 Elantra: Displaying the 1.4L Kappa turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine, emphasizing fuel efficiency and performance.
The 1.4-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine also incorporates an integrated cylinder head and exhaust manifold, improving fuel economy by 5-7 percent at higher engine speeds. An optimized straight intake port increases tumble flow for faster combustion, suppressing knock and improving fuel economy. The single scroll turbocharger features an electric wastegate actuator, which enhances low-end torque and part-load fuel economy by reducing back pressure. High-pressure fuel injectors with six laser-drilled holes optimize fuel spray patterns.
Both engine options are equipped with friction-reducing and cooling components, as well as high-efficiency engineering features designed to maximize fuel economy and performance. All 2017 Elantra trims include the new Drive Mode Select feature, allowing drivers to customize powertrain performance and steering effort with Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, selectable via a button on the center console.
Advanced Occupant Safety Features
Beyond its robust chassis, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra incorporates structural enhancements to further improve occupant safety. The front side members now feature a hexagonal design, and the dash-to-cowl connection is reinforced. The front apron to the A-pillar incorporates a straight and continuous load path and utilizes hot stamping on the front side rear lower member. B-pillar assemblies feature partial softening hot stamping, transitioning from a reinforcement section (150kgf grade) to a softening section (100kgf grade) to enhance side impact absorption. Rear doors are equipped with dual impact beams. A comprehensive seven-airbag system is standard, including a new driver’s knee airbag, along with Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Traction Control, ABS, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The 2017 Elantra is expected to achieve both an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a NHTSA 5-star safety rating, reflecting Hyundai’s commitment to safety.
New for 2017, the Elantra offers a suite of advanced safety technologies often found in luxury vehicles. Available Automatic Emergency Braking with class-exclusive Pedestrian Detection uses front forward-facing radar and camera sensor fusion to detect vehicles or pedestrians, warning the driver of potential collisions and applying emergency braking if necessary.
Additional available Elantra-first safety technologies include Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist, and a rearview camera with dynamic guidance. The Lane Keep Assist System utilizes a forward-facing camera to detect lane markings and alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signaling, providing corrective steering assistance if needed.
Intelligent Technology and Convenience Features
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra advances the compact car class with innovative technology designed to enhance driver confidence and convenience without a premium price tag. The segment-exclusive hands-free Smart Trunk allows for effortless trunk opening by simply approaching the rear of the vehicle with the key fob in a pocket or purse. After an audible beep, the trunk automatically opens, simplifying cargo loading.
The driving experience is further enhanced with available Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) and Smart Cruise Control (SCC) technology. DBL works in conjunction with the HID headlights, turning them in the direction of steering for improved nighttime visibility and safety. High Beam Assist automatically dims the high beams when approaching vehicles are detected. Smart Cruise Control (SCC) utilizes a radar sensor to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed in varying traffic conditions, making highway and long-distance driving more comfortable.
Advanced Connectivity and Multimedia
All 2017 Elantra models come standard with iPhone®/USB and auxiliary input jacks, and SiriusXM® satellite radio. New for this model year, two advanced infotainment systems are available beyond the base audio system: a 7.0-inch Display Audio touchscreen system with a rearview camera and Hyundai’s next-generation 8.0-inch navigation system. Both systems feature Apple® CarPlay and Android® Auto support for seamless smartphone integration, enabling intuitive operation of navigation, streaming audio, voice-controlled search, and compatible smartphone apps. A second USB port for charging, a first for Hyundai vehicles, is also available to support smartphone connectivity.
Infotainment System in the 2017 Elantra: Demonstrating the 8-inch navigation system with Apple CarPlay integration, highlighting connectivity and multimedia features.
The advanced 8.0-inch navigation system features an enhanced display with improved touch sensitivity, increased screen brightness, and a split-screen display for map and music data. SiriusXM® Satellite Radio and HD Radio® Technology are standard on this system, which also includes pre-loaded apps, voice control functions, and premium SiriusXM features such as Pandora® capability, SiriusXM® Travel Link® (with a three-month trial), SiriusXM® Tune Start, and “Eyes Free” Siri integration.
For audiophiles, the 2017 Elantra offers an optional eight-speaker Infinity premium audio system with a center speaker and subwoofer. It also features Hyundai’s first application of Harman’s patented Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology. Clari-Fi™ analyzes and restores digitally compressed audio files, delivering a richer and more detailed listening experience closer to the original recording.
Next-Generation Blue Link® Connected Car System
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra features the next-generation Hyundai Blue Link system, providing enhanced safety, service, and infotainment telematics. Blue Link offers seamless connectivity with features like Remote Start w/ Climate Control, Destination Search powered by Google®, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. Blue Link is accessible via buttons on the rearview mirror, the web, or a smartphone app, and select features are controllable through Android Wear™ and Apple Watch™ smartwatches.
Blue Link is offered in three service packages: Connected Care & Remote (available on all models) and Guidance (available on Navigation-equipped models). 2017 Elantra models equipped with Blue Link include one year of complimentary Blue Link Connected Care. The Connected Care package includes Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) and Assistance, SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Monthly Vehicle Health Report, Maintenance Alerts, Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification (DTC), Service Link, Blue Link App, On-Demand Diagnostics, and Driving Information. The Remote package adds features like Remote Start with Climate Control, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights, Car Finder, Stolen Vehicle Recovery/Slowdown/Immobilization, and Vehicle Safeguard Alerts (Geo-Fence, Valet Alert, Speed/Curfew Alert). The Guidance package (Navigation-equipped models) includes Destination search powered by Google® and Destination Send-to-Car by Google®.
For more information about Blue Link, please visit www.hyundaibluelink.com.
Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, California, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through over 830 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are backed by Hyundai Assurance, including a 5-year/60,000-mile fully-transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance. Hyundai Blue Link® Connected Care provides owners of Blue Link-equipped models with proactive safety and car care services complimentary for one year with enrollment.
For more details on Hyundai Assurance, please visit www.HyundaiAssurance.com
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