The 7th gen Hyundai Elantra has won the 2021 North American Car of the Year (COTY) award beating the finalists including Nissan Sentra and Genesis G80. The judgment by a panel of 50 judges was based on points including innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction, value for money and segment leadership.
This is the third COTY title for Hyundai in North American market & the second time that Elantra has been crowned as the North American COTY, the first time was in 2012 when the 5th gen model won the coveted title.
The 7th gen Hyundai Elantra made its debut in March last year with bold styling featuring what Hyundai calls “Parametric Dynamics” having sharp polyhedral creases on its body. Apart from the compelling looks, the 7th gen Elantra is also one of the largest sedans in the compact segment being 2.2 inches longer, 1 inch wider, and a 20mm longer wheelbase when compared to its predecessor benefitting into offering more interior space for the occupants.
Related: Pakistan-Bound Hyundai Elantra and Tucson will be Obsolete Before Launch
The all new 2021 Elantra is based on Hyundai’s new K3 platform, which is lighter yet stronger, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. The platform offers a lower center of gravity, improving its driving dynamics and handling of the new Elantra.
Inside the 7th gen Elantra gets a completely redesigned interior which is a radical departure from the preceding model. Hyundai calls it the “Immersive Cocoon,” and it is meant to create a driver-focused user experience.
The Elantra in North American markets comes available in petrol & hybrid powertrain options. There is a 2.0L petrol engine that generates 147 hp of power and 179 Nm of torque. For Elantra Hybrid, the power comes from 1.6L unit featuring a permanent-magnet electric motor which delivers 43 hp (32 kW). The electric motor is powered by a 1.32 kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery pack that’s placed under the rear seats. The combined system output is 139 hp and 264 Nm of torque, with power sent to the front wheels through 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The 7th gen Elantra comes rich in active & passive safety equipment including Hyundai SmartSense suite featuring an array of driver assistance systems.
Related: Hyundai-Nishat Inching Closer to Launch Elantra Sedan
Hyundai-Nishat is about to introduce the Elantra sedan in Pakistan soon as the CKD assembling has already started in its plant. However it is the facelifted version of 6th generation model that debuted back in 2015 and received the facelift in 2018.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
