Hyundai Elantra Gets New Look, More Power And Industry-Leading Buyer Assurance Program

A more powerful engine, a fresh new look and an industry-leading buyer assurance program head the list of enhancements and refinements in the 1999 Hyundai Elantra.

These changes, together with the attributes that established Elantra as the compact sedan and wagon offering buyers more standard features than its competitors, strengthen Elantra's position as the value leader in the compact segment.

The Hyundai Advantage
In addition to providing buyers with outstanding value, Hyundai backs Elantra with an assurance package that's unmatched in the industry. Called The Hyundai Advantage, this package reflects Hyundai's confidence in the quality of its products.

The Hyundai Advantage includes limited bumper-to-bumper coverage for five years or 60,000 miles. This exceeds the coverage on competitive cars costing over twice as much. In addition, Elantra buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five full years (no mileage limit); it includes emergency towing, lock-out service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses.

That's not all. Hyundai also provides original Elantra owners with industry-leading limited powertrain coverage -- 10 years of 100,000 miles. Even if the car is sold, Hyundai backs Elantra's powertrain for five years or 60,000 miles. Corrosion coverage is provided for five years or 100,000 miles. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

New 2.0-liter engine
For 1999, Hyundai has given Elantra the same 2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve 140 horsepower engine used in the Tiburon sporty coupe. Delivering 133 ft/lbs. of torque, the latest version of Hyundai's proprietary Beta powerplant gives Elantra the most powerful standard engine in its class. It replaces the 1.8-liter, 130 horsepower engine used in earlier Elantras.

Hyundai engineers designed Elantra's new engine to provide even torque distribution throughout the rpm range, providing drivers with stronger acceleration, especially in the low and middle ranges. Whether equipped with its smooth-shifting standard five-speed manual transmission or the optional four-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission, Elantra provides ample power under all normal driving conditions.

With Elantra, economy goes well beyond the low initial price. Its state-of-the-art engine has been engineered for low maintenance and reduced ownership costs, thanks to such features as distributorless ignition and self-adjusting hydraulic valve lash adjusters.

Elantra's ride and handling are at the top of its class, too, making it the practical, value-packed compact car that's truly fun to drive. While some competitors have de-contented their compact models, Hyundai has given Elantra an advanced four-wheel independent suspension system. So while not designed to be a sports sedan, Elantra does inspire driver confidence by offering exceptional levels of handling and performance.

A fresh, new look
For 1999, Elantra has been given an exterior facelift, giving it a sophisticated appearance that's a visual match for its spirited performance. Hyundai has made significant styling changes both front and rear. In addition, Elantra's interior has been further refined, enhancing both appearance and functionality.

The facelift starts with a restyled front end, highlighted by the addition of a bold, new grille, giving Elantra a more sporty, contemporary appearance. In addition, the 1999 Elantra features a restyled front bumper covered with TPO (Thermo Plastic Olefin), a high-performance material that provides improved impact resistance and is fully recyclable. Below the bumper is a larger air intake opening with vertical and horizontal slats for structural reinforcement. Elantra's hood has also been restyled, with sleek character lines that complement the new grille and bumper.

Elantra's headlamps have also been redesigned for 1999. The restyled units feature a new multifocus reflector system for improved illumination. Also new are revised front turn signal lamps, which have enlarged optics for better visibility.

Changes to Elantra's rear styling are subtle but appealing. The trunk's character lines are somewhat more pronounced, and the trunk lid panel has been raised slightly, incorporating a sculpted spoiler. This gives the car a more contemporary appearance. The rear bumper has been slightly redesigned, and a new back beam has been inserted to provide more cross-resistance.

The rear combination lamps have been restyled for a sleeker look, and reengineered optics enhance nighttime visibility. The optional rear spoiler has also been redesigned.

Side view enhancements include the addition of waistline molding, which is bodycolored on the standard model and has a bright insert on the GLS trim level. Side view mirrors have been redesigned to provide more sophisticated styling and reduced wind noise. Hyundai has also given Elantra all-new five-spoke alloy wheels and spoke-type wheel covers for 1999.

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