Although described as a compact sedan, the newly redesigned 2021 Hyundai Elantra is not only bigger than its predecessor but also jazzed up in tech features and its all-new hybrid powertrain. Additionally, its “styling charts some new territory” with Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness Design” and is touted as having a “futuristic new design.” 

What else do we know about the greatly anticipated 2021 Hyundai Elantra, its hybrid powertrain and slicked out body style? Can it compare to these five hybrid cars that offer the most value?

A stunning new look for 2021

Car and Driver describes its bold new look as compelling, with “aggressively angular side surfacing” and “modern-looking headlights and taillights.”  Also, a very slight increase in its body makes it somewhat larger than other compact sedans in its category, being 2.2 inches longer and 1 inch wider.

Long, low and wide, USA Today explains that the new Elantra also sits lower, its roof being 0.8 inch lower, and due to a lower center a gravity, drivers can enjoy sportier handling. And even though the lower roofline associated with its cousin – the Sonata – gives a sleek look, there are no missed marks on a lack of headroom as it gives more than the Corolla or Civic, writes Digital Trend. The more prominent grille and geometric lines on this four-door coupe bring more race car to mind than a grocery getter. 

The Hyundai Elantra gets a hybrid powertrain

To be expected with any redesign, there is a great deal of fervor over modern, futuristic lines, but the accolades for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra are coming for its new hybrid powertrain. A first for the Elantra, Hyundai claims that hybrid powering will translate to 50 mpg combined fuel economy, putting it in competition with the likes of the Honda Insight and the Toyota Corolla Hybrid, which both rate at 52 mpg combined. And for the economic hybrid engine, no false expectation is to be had on its pep as its powertrain produces 139 hp with 195 lb-ft of torque, explains Consumer Reports.

DPC Cars reviewed the 2021 Elantra and found the new powertrain delivered a more “dynamic and engaging driving experience.” It will feature a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery located under the rear seats.

Together, the electric motor and gas-powered engine will “deliver plenty of power and torque for a spirited performance,” and “the high-efficiency electric motor has a pure electric driving mode that delivers instant torque at low driving speeds and power-assisted acceleration at high speeds.” Paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, you can feel more in control behind the wheel. 

Added perks of the redesigned Hyundai Elantra

The News Wheel highlights these other exciting features of the redesigned Hyundai Elantra that is getting enthusiasts hyped up for release in the latter part of 2020.  

A new suspension and lower center of gravity make the new Elantra an easier and sportier car to drive. More precise steering and an independent multilink rear suspension means tighter handling and more responsiveness. 

The 2021 Elantra will come with a virtual key that allows you to unlock your car with your Android smartphone and the ability to share this virtual key with other users. And welcome to the future in which you can control certain features of your vehicle with a voice recognition system.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will both come standard, guaranteeing seamless wireless integration.

The Hyundai Elantra also comes equipped with six safety tech features such as lane-keeping assist, following and high beam assist, a rearview camera, driver attention warning and forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection.