New Hyundai Elantra revealed in China with futuristic styling and 1.5L petrol engine

The new Hyundai Elantra has surfaced in the latest vehicle approval filings published by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), giving us an early look at the redesigned sedan for the Chinese market.

Built by Beijing Hyundai, the new Elantra looks markedly different from the current model, with sharper, more angular styling and a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.

For reference, the current Hyundai Elantra

Sharper styling with a futuristic look

The filing images show a substantial departure from the current Elantra's design, particularly at the front.

A full-width light bar runs across the nose, with sharply styled split headlights and an angular front bumper giving the sedan a more aggressive appearance.

From the side, the Elantra retains its fastback roofline, now paired with more pronounced body creases and semi-flush door handles.

At the rear, the design is noticeably more geometric, with upright taillights connected by a full-width trim strip. The tailgate carries prominent ELANTRA lettering in the centre, along with Beijing Hyundai badging.

Larger dimensions and longer wheelbase

The new Elantra has grown in length and width, while its wheelbase has also been extended. The extra length between the axles could translate into more room for rear passengers.

According to the filing, the sedan measures 4,765 mm long, 1,855 mm wide and 1,425 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm.

It remains a five-seat C-segment sedan, with 215/50 R17 tyres listed in the approval documents.

Powertrain

Under the skin, the China-spec all-new Elantra is powered by a Beijing Hyundai-built 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine carrying the engine code G4FL.

The 1,497 cc engine produces 84.5 kW (approximately 115 PS), while the claimed top speed is 191 km/h.

Could this design reach other markets?

The new Elantra brings a striking change in styling, along with a larger body and longer wheelbase.

For now, the model shown in the MIIT filings is intended for China. Hyundai has not confirmed whether the same design will be adopted in other markets, although elements of it could influence future versions of the Elantra elsewhere.

What do you think of the new Elantra's angular design? Would you like to see it on the roads in Malaysia?