The Redesigned 2019 Elantra

Surprise Global Reveal

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra

Not long ago Hyundai invited a small group of auto and lifestyle media to be among the first to drive its very capable SUV, the 2019 Santa Fe. In addition to showcasing the Santa Fe the Hyundai PR team had an unexpected ‘wow’ in store for the invited, and usually surprise adverse, media guests. While assessments were being formulated though drives and presentations on the 2019 Sante Fe, Hyundai added a major media event – a ‘global launch’ for the redesigned 2019 Elantra to the program. Now in its sixth generation, the Elantra has sold more than 3 million units since its launch in the U.S. in 1991. Elantra has received numerous accolades including the most recent IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus for model year 2018. In addition to quality, reliability and being backed by America’s Best Warranty, the JD Power IQS recently awarded Hyundai third place overall in the highly regarded industry quality study. The Elantra is built in Hyundai’s Montgomery, Alabama plant and its Ulsan, South Korea facility. I am able to report that the redesigned 2019 Elantra’s new intense design conveys an enticing appeal to drivers and the sophisticated driving experience though Hyundai’s SmartSense safety and convenience technologies incorporate a host of technological innovations that make for a very impressive ride.

A First Look

“Refinements to both the interior and exterior were initiated on the 2019 Elantra to maintain its emotional design character and include affordable and desired features,” said Scott Margason, director, product planning, Hyundai. “The hood, front fenders, fascia, grille and headlights as well as the rear fascia, trunk and taillights each have been redesigned to convey a catchy and confident image. On the rear of the vehicle, the license plate has been relocated to the lower fascia to further enhance the new body sculpture.”

Cutting-edge SmartSense safety features have been added to the 2019 Elantra. Most of these features have been added to the SEL trim level and above meaning they are now available on 75 percent of the Elantra lineup. The 2019 Elantra also debuts with Hyundai’s next generation AVN 5.0 infotainment system. This system features an upgraded processor for greater responsiveness, as well as an 8-inch screen vs. the 7-inch screen in the last generation Elantra. Using presets with AVN 5.0 is a snap because AM, FM and SiriusXM channels are now combined on one screen and also feature HERE HD Traffic (without a subscription). A bird’s eye view has also been added to navigation maps and drivers can now get traffic flow and incident data without ever paying for a subscription via HD Radio. The 2019 Hyundai Elantra offers 6 trim levels—SE, SEL, Value Edition, Limited and Eco or Sport. Hyundai.

Photos By DewHurst Photography