The New Hyundai Elantra Is Almost Here.

It seems every day, or almost, we get a new illustration or spy shot of the next-generation Hyundai Elantra. Hyundai has been hard at work on it and it will finally be unveiled on the 26th of this month. The image above is probably the last one we’ll see before official photos come out.

It will be a 2027 model in its home market, but might not be introduced to North America right away and could end up being sold as a 2028 model. But who knows, we’ll see…

The new car a totally different design language form past generations. Which has been confirmed by what we have seen so far. If the image above is accurate, the new Hyundai Elantra could mark one of the biggest design shifts in the model’s history. While the current version, launched in 2020 and refreshed in 2023, already stands out, the next-gen car may adopt a weirdo retro-futuristic style. Like many upcoming Hyundai designs. Something that many might not like. 

One design element that appears to remain is the fastback silhouette with a traditional trunk. Which is a ridiculous look that prioritizes style, or especially money savings, over practicality. It is really a shame not to offer a proper hatchback if you ask me…

With the Hyundai Sonata potentially being phased out in the U.S., the Elantra might grow in size to fill the gap. If that happens, it could effectively become Hyundai’s last sedan offered in the US. At least for a while.

Despite the bold exterior changes, the next Elantra is expected to ride on an updated version of its current platform. As carmakers focus investment on EVs rather than developing new architectures for gasoline models. 

Looking ahead, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are likely by 2027 or 2028. Meanwhile, competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are also moving toward standard electrification, increasing the pressure.

At least the new Elantra will not look like anything else on the road. With a new Honda Civic and a new Toyota Corolla due out soon, it will be interesting to see how the new Elantra design will be received.