Hyundai Elantra 2015-2016 CRDi Base

To the surprise of everyone in the automobile market, Hyundai Motors India Limited has rolled out the updated version of its premium sedan, Elantra in the country. There are a slew of changes made to this vehicle in terms of both interiors and exteriors, but its looks mostly identical to its outgoing model. However, no changes have been made to its technical specifications or to its braking or suspension mechanism. Furthermore, the car maker has also retained all the trims like its previous version among which, Hyundai Elantra CRDi Base is the entry level variant. This trim gets a refined fog lamp consoles and bumpers, which looks somewhat similar to its previous version. However, its newly crafted alloy wheels, taillight cluster and chrome waistline molding renders it a fresh new appeal. Its internal cabin too gets some updates in the form of an all black color scheme along with aluminum pedals. Under the hood, it is fitted with the same 1.6-litre diesel engine that is mated to a six speed manual gearbox. Although it is the base trim, it gets several impressive features like climate control unit, driver's seat height adjuster and a multi-functional steering wheel. Unlike most of Hyundai models, this sedan is available with a standard warranty of upto 4-years or 100,000 kilometers.

Exteriors:

The manufacturer has done some changes to its exteriors, especially to its frontage that gives it a solid look. The design of its headlight cluster has been retained, but it is now equipped with projector headlamps along with LED guiding lights. In the center, its radiator grille looks to be the same with a sleekly sculptured strip featuring company's insignia. The design of the front bumper remains mostly identical to its predecessor, but the design of fog lamps have been modified the overall look of its frontage is complimented by the expressive lines on its bonnet. Coming to the side facet, it gets a set of brand new 10-spoke design alloy wheels, which are embedded with company's insignia. Additionally, its waistline molding is now garnished with chrome, which gives a majestic appeal to the side facet. Apart from these, all other aspects like black B pillars and chrome plated door handles have been retained. Its ORVMs are painted in body color and are integrated with turn blinkers, which adds to the safety quotient. The rear end looks stylish, thanks to dual tone bumper that houses chrome plated exhaust pipe. At the same time, its taillight cluster gets LED type lighting patter that adds to its refreshing new look. This sedan has a total length of 4530mm, width of 1775mm and a height of 1470mm, which contributes for the interior space.

Interiors:

This sedan has also received changes to its internal cabin with a refined black color scheme that adds to its plushness. At the same time, it gets aluminum accelerator and brake pedals along with scuff plates with Elantra lettering. Its cockpit section is now blessed with a slightly modified floor console that houses a sliding center armrest along with a pair of cup holders. Its steering wheel along with the gearshift knob gets premium leather cover, while the seats are covered with a good quality fabric upholstery. Apart from these, all the other features inside have been retained from its previous model. All the seats including the rear bench seats are comfortable, as they have adjustable head restraints and side bolsters. Furthermore, it also has a center armrest featuring two cup holders that adds to the conveniences. There are several number of useful amenities provided inside the cabin including accessory power sockets, rear AC vents, storage pockets, a large glove box and a digital clock.

Engine and Performance:

This Hyundai Elantra CRDI Base variant is powered by the same 1.6-litre diesel mill, which is also under the hood of outgoing version. There are no changes made to its specifications and it continuous to produce same power and mileage. It is based on double overhead camshaft valve configuration with 4-cylinders and 16-valves, which displaces 1582cc. It is incorporated with a variable geometry turbocharger and common rail fuel injection system, which enhances its power and fuel efficiency. This mill is capable of unleashing 126.2bhp at 4000rpm that results in a pounding torque of 259.88Nm between 1900 to 2750rpm. Its transmission duties are handled by a six speed manual gearbox that releases the torque output to its front wheels. According to the car maker, this vehicle can give away a peak mileage of 22.7 Kmpl, which is quite competitive.

Braking and Handling:

Like mentioned earlier, this sedan's braking and suspension mechanisms have been retained. Its braking system comprises of sturdy disc brakes fitted to all its four wheels, which are further loaded with high performance brake calipers. Additionally, its ABS and EBD functions are provided to improve its overall braking mechanism. In terms of suspension, its front axle is fitted with McPherson strut along with coil springs for enhanced ability to absorb jerks. While its rear axle gets a coupled torsion beam suspension system that improves its stability. This vehicle also gets a sophisticated power assisted steering that offers exceptional response depending upon the speed level and makes handling simpler.

Comfort Features:

This Hyundai Elantra CRDi Base is the entry level variant and yet, it gets a slew of comfort features, which offers a fatigue free traveling experience. Its list of features include adjustable steering column, dual zone fully automatic AC unit including cluster ionizer, rear AC vents and glove box cooling. Additionally, it also gets all round tinted glass, folding key with keyless entry function, electrically adjustable outside mirrors, sliding front center armrest with storage, sunglass holder and power windows with one touch operation. Furthermore, this trim also gets automatic defogger, day/night inside rear view mirror and safety escort headlamps. The manufacturer has also incorporated a sophisticated 2-DIN audio unit with radio tuner along with a CD player. This system also includes connectivity options for USB, AUX-In, iPod and Bluetooth.

Safety Features:

This entry level variant gets all the essential protective aspects including dual front airbags, anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, rear parking sensors and impact sensing door unlock function. In addition to these, it also gets clutch lock function, rear defogger with timer, ignition key reminder and height adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioner.

Pros:

1. Comfort and safety features are at par with others.

2. Engine performance and acceleration is good.

Cons:

1. Lack of ESP is a disadvantage.

2. Touchscreen infotainment system can be added.