The Hyundai Elantra Petrol is among the last of its kind with an atmospheric four-cylinder petrol engine under the bonnet. The 2.0-litre four still makes 152 hp and 192 Nm and that’s enough for some spirited performance. The dash from standstill to 100 km/h takes just about 10 seconds and it exudes an appreciable potent feel with strong in-gear acceleration as well. There are drive modes, too, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart, the last of which adapts the mode to the driving style. The Elantra’s ride quality is impressive and it soaks up bumps and road abnormalities well. Changes of direction are also dealt with easily and it feels dynamically sound. However, on long sweeping bends or when performing prolonged turning manoeuvres, there is slight body-roll which, momentarily, can be a bit disconcerting. At highway speeds, it’s planted, stable and feels like there’s more on tap; which is the case, clearly.
The six-speed automatic transmission in the Hyundai Elantra Petrol harnesses the power well and, for the most part, it’s electric quiet with only a bit of road noise audible at city speeds. The Eco drive mode helps there, no doubt, keeping revs in check. The downside, if I may say that, is its thirst. While it can eke out about 14 km/l on the highway, the city figure we got was about nine. That can drop further in stop-go traffic. All said and done, that’s an overall figure of just over 10 km/l.
It’s good on the brakes, too. Pressure the master and the Elantra sheds speed in a hurry in a completely drama-free manner. The stopping power is commendable and it comes to a sure stop from 80 km/h in just two and a quarter seconds and just over 25 metres. Dynamics, then, are a fair improvement on the previous model.
Overall, it’s easy to get used to and feels like a smaller car on the go, while offering the premium feel of a much bigger car. At Rs 20.39 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s not cheap. The top-spec Hyundai Elantra Petrol SX(O) AT has a lot going for it: ergonomics, comfort, equipment and driving feel and handling dynamics — all big pluses. For anyone looking for a stylish D-segmenter with equal doses of stunning style, engaging performance, and relaxing luxuries to rival the premium sport-luxury European offerings, the new Elantra needs a very close look.
