Lafesta may sound something like a one-off supercar from an Italian automaker. But you’d be wrong. It’s actually a small Hyundai sedan that made its debut at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show earlier this year, as a vehicle exclusively focused on the Chinese market.
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Lafesta translates to “festival” in Italian and embodies the latest Hyundai design language, dubbed as “sensuous sportiness”. It has an aggressive fastback styling with a front fascia highlighted by a version of Hyundai’s corporate Cascading grille, sleeker headlights, LED daytime running lights, and gloss black features.
The Lafesta sedan measures 4,660mm long, 1,790mm wide, 1,425mm tall, and rides on a 2,700mm wheelbase. Dimension wise the car sits perfectly between the Elantra and Sonata sedans, and as per reports will be slotted between the two as well.
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The new Lafesta will be pitched as Hyundai’s sporty entry in the crowded Chinese small car market. Indeed, Hyundai itself already sells several vehicles in that space, including the current Elantra (called as Lingdong), the previous-generation Elantra (sold as the Langdong), and the fourth-generation Elantra (known as the Elantra Yuedong).
Simon Loasby, Head of Design for Hyundai China, said:
“China is evolving quickly and so are Chinese people’s attitudes. They are more self-confident, positive and creative. The Lafesta will help us reflect this shifting trend. It’s a clear demonstration of how our newly announced design vision, ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ comes to life in Hyundai vehicles.”
According to Hyundai, the Lafesta will be targeted towards young car buyers (under 30 years) who want a sedan with sportier drive. The Lafesta sedan will be offered with 1.4 liter and 1.6 liter turbocharged engines and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The black & silver color coded interior is described as “spacious” and “driver-focused”, equipped with quality materials. It features a flat bottomed multi-function steering wheel, large touchscreen infotainment system, and is said to offer some of the most advanced & safest driving assistance systems available on any Hyundai product to date.
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The Hyundai Lafesta will be officially launched in China on the 18th of October. Prices are yet to be announced. Stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more updates.
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
