Hyundai Avante

The cabin of this Hyundai Elantra has been retained from the original pre-facelift fifth-generation model with very little changes and fee feature additions. The overall cabin layout still feels much fresh and is equipped with many premium features to justify its premium positioning.

The compact multifunctional steering wheel looks very nice and feels good to hold. And while the instrument console behind it doesn’t look too fancy as that of the latest sixth-generation model, it still looks eye-pleasing with all the necessary data on display.

The asymmetrical centre console is slightly tilted towards the driver and accommodates a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the upper half of the dashboard. The lower half is a trapezoidal-shaped panel, the upper half of which has automatic climate control buttons and the lower half having a storage space.

The cabin of the Elantra is loaded with features such as an electric sunroof, leather upholstery, ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, push-button start with keyless entry, wireless charger, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, and rear AC vents.

The Singapore-spec model is the facelifted model of the fifth generation version, and not the sixth-generation model sold overseas. However, it still remains one of the sharpest and most contemporary-looking sedans.

The Hyundai Elantra has got a very sharp front face, which is comprised of the large and sleek triangular headlamp, which come with inverted V-shaped daytime running LEDs and quad projector headlamps. The inner edges of the headlamps blend into the cascading front grille, which flows all the way down to the bottom edge of the front bumper and houses horizontal slats. The triangular shape of fog lamps also makes it appear sporty.

The side profile of the Hyundai Avante has got the essence of a coupe with its roofline, which is rounded while moving towards the rear. The rising kink towards the C-pillar and the sharp character line flowing sideways add some athleticism to the side look of the car.

From the rear, the Hyundai Avante looks simple yet edgy, with a clean design for the boot lid and long and sharp tail lamps which have got super slick LED inserts.

The overall handling and steering feedback of the Hyundai Avante doesn’t feel as involved as how a driving enthusiast would like. However, the suspension setup, which is a combination of Macpherson struts at the front and coupled torsion beam axle at the back, gives a planted and comfortable ride quality on the go.

For the Singapore market, Hyundai has made the Avante available in only a single powertrain option of a 1.6-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission. With a maximum power output of 126 PS and a peak torque output of 155 Nm, the Hyundai Avante feels powerful enough with impressive refinement levels.

The Hyundai Avante is packed with a host of modern-day safety features like front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, rear parking sensors with camera, rear cross-traffic alert, safe exit assist, blind-spot collision warning, electronic stability control, and traction control.

This Hyundai Avante might not be as snazzy and futuristic in its visual appeal as the latest sixth-generation model. However, it still feels modern snd premium enough to rank in among the best and most generously equipped sedans in the market right now. The overall mechanics of the car and long list of features do position as a premium sedan with competitive pricing.