Early Look at the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
We first heard news that Hyundai would produce a hatchback version of its Elantra compact sedan back in April. Today, official word has come from Hyundai headquarters that there will indeed be a model called the Elantra Touring. It will debut for the 2009 model year, going on sale in the spring of 2008. The official unveiling will be at the L.A. Auto Show in November, but for now we have the sketch above.
Hyundai says the Elantra Touring will have the same four-cylinder engine found in the sedan, as well as improved handling and a sport suspension. It will also be the first hatchback with standard electronic stability control, and the company says it will have more interior room than the competition, including the Mazda3 and Dodge Caliber.
Related
Hyundai Adding Elantra Wagon in 2008 (KickingTires)
Friday Fleet Notes: 04.20.07 (KickingTires)
2007 Hyundai Elantra Expert Review (Cars.com)
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Wow, I'm sure it will look ALOT like that sketch... ;)
Dang, more space than a Caliber? Dodge really needs to get into the small car market again because it's smallest vehicle just got outdone in cargo. Sure, the Caliber may not be great, but it's very versatile. Hyundai seems like they have a great strategy.
Is this car related to the I30?
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/209292/hyundai_i30_16_crdi.html
IT LOOKS TO BE A 4 DOOR HATCH. I WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THE ENGINE WOULD BE SOMEHOW REVISED OR UPDATED WITH A POSSIBLY 5 SPEED AUTO. MORE INTERIOR SPACE AND MORE FEATURES IS BETTER FOR SALES. I THINK THIS WILL ADD TO THE EXTENDED LINEUP.
Dave T:
Doesn't the 2007 Mazda 3 hatchback have electronic stability control standard?
Doug G
No it doesn't. You have to get the Touring trims for it to come standard on the 3.
Actually, it is the I30.
Dave:
Ahhh, okay. I forgot about the "sport" model of the 3 hatchback, I had it in my head that it started at touring.
I don't take alot of stock in this one, Remember how the Elantra GT was hyped? Why will the Touring be any better than a standard Elantra besides being a hatch?