What improvements do you want in the next gen Elantra?, maybe Hyundai will listen Options

[elantragt]

So... basically the HD generation failed to attract the enthusiast crowd. The looks are pleasant enough but blah, the power and gas mileage are only "so-so". Unlike the previous XD gen few modders saw much potential.

Realistically, (afterall the Elantra is an economy car at heart) what changes and improvements would you like to see Hyundai make to the next Elantra? What would make you take notice and consider buying one?

[MdElantra]

A true sport version in a hatch with at least 175hp might help most here. Im talking a GT with real GT qualities not interior upgrades but true performance with economy. Doing that at less cost then the Genesis coupe probably isnt realistic though.

[edge718]

I would like to see it with 15-20 more hp and, stylistically, more along the lines of the kia forte. Isn't the HD do for a facelift next model year?

[cclngthr]

After owning a HD, and driving a Mazda 3, a competitor to the FD, I think that the Elantra needs a 2.4 liter engine with a 5 speed automatic with shiftronic and a 5/6 speed manual. Suspension needs a complete overhaul. The Elantra suspension should make the car handle well in the corners; and have some adjustability in the alignment. Seating needs to be able to hold you in the seat better. The HD has seat adjustments for up/down and forward/back but not lumbar support, which other cars offer. A GT version should be a true GT, where upgraded suspension and drivetrain components are available including larger brakes, tire/rim sizes and other GT requirements. I think a GT sedan and hatch should be available. I did not like the fastback hatch, but something similar to the i30 hatch would be better.

A 2 liter engine does well; but the 2.4 liter engine would make the Elantra more competitive in the market and more comparable to other cars. Mazda offers 2 engines for the 3, a 2 liter I4 for a sedan and a 2.5 I4 for the S Touring and GT for the 2010 sedans, hatch and GT hatch.

[Bobzilla]

See: Kia Forte SX.

[sarge]

See: Kia Forte SX.

Exactly what I was thinking....

it's got the looks, and got the power - all for the price under the Gen coupe; so it is possible

[cobas]

The 2.4L Forte SX needs some work in terms of throttle response and handling, I read, but it's a good start. I would bring over the i30 Hatchback to match the Wagon styling, do some work on the handling to offer a Sport version, and give us a Diesel engine choice. Ideally let people choose the current 2.0L Beta, a 2.0L Diesel for fuel economy and if possible a sportier engine choice like the 2.4L Theta or 2.0T from the Genesis.

They are planning the Veloster concept that they quote will have a 1.6L 140hp engine and achieve 40mpg, so that's a new engine to throw into the mix. Basically it'll be a 4-cylinder, and the Theta 2.4 and 2.0 are already in the Sonata, Tuscon and Genesis Coupe, so... put a Theta in an Elantra too. Or, if this 1.6L DI engine is coming, use that. I still think the Diesel should be introduced on many models: Elantra, Sonata, Tuscon, maybe even Santa Fe.

[Bobzilla]

The Beta is done. Let it die. We already have the theta in 1.8/2.0/2.4 sizes. Let it be the choices. I do second the CRDi. I WOULD be buying a new car if they would bring us one.

[Spectre]

It's time for them to finally up the horse power.

[Silentwolf]

GLS sedan or wagon= Base (1.8l, cloth seats, basic basics) $15-16k
Limited sedan or wagon= Luxury GLS (2.0l, leather seats, Infinity stereo, wood trimmed interior) $17-18k
GT sedan or hatch = Sporty GLS (2.4l, Sport bucket leather/cloth seats (like Gen coupe 2.0track), 6spd manual, Infinity stereo, aluminum trimmed interior) $18-20k

And overall: Less of the roundy Carollaish look and a $2k diesel engine option for all models

[cclngthr]

The 2.4L Forte SX needs some work in terms of throttle response and handling, I read, but it's a good start. I would bring over the i30 Hatchback to match the Wagon styling, do some work on the handling to offer a Sport version, and give us a Diesel engine choice. Ideally let people choose the current 2.0L Beta, a 2.0L Diesel for fuel economy and if possible a sportier engine choice like the 2.4L Theta or 2.0T from the Genesis.

They are planning the Veloster concept that they quote will have a 1.6L 140hp engine and achieve 40mpg, so that's a new engine to throw into the mix. Basically it'll be a 4-cylinder, and the Theta 2.4 and 2.0 are already in the Sonata, Tuscon and Genesis Coupe, so... put a Theta in an Elantra too. Or, if this 1.6L DI engine is coming, use that. I still think the Diesel should be introduced on many models: Elantra, Sonata, Tuscon, maybe even Santa Fe.

A turbo version of the 2.4 would be better for some people. I would get rid of the wagon and have the i30 hatch with a 2.4 turbo.

[sciphi]

Pretty much what all you folks said.