Hyundai Unveils Eighth Generation Elantra

Hyundai has unveiled the eighth generation Elantra sedan at the 2026 Busan Auto Show in South Korea, where the model is sold as the Avante, featuring a completely redesigned exterior, a larger body, a more spacious cabin and upgraded technology.

The new Elantra adopts Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” design language with sharper styling, flared wheel arches, flush door handles and H shaped front and rear lighting. Compared to its predecessor, the sedan is 55 mm longer, 30 mm wider and rides on a wheelbase that has been extended by 30 mm to 2,750 mm.

Hyundai said the increased dimensions give the new Elantra interior space comparable to that of a midsize sedan.

Inside, the Elantra features Hyundai’s next generation Android based Pleos infotainment system with a standard 12.9 inch touchscreen and an optional 14.6 inch display. The cabin also includes dual wireless charging pads, ambient lighting, a column mounted gear selector and retains physical controls for essential functions.

In South Korea, the sedan will be available with a naturally aspirated 2.0 liter gasoline engine producing 147 horsepower, an increase of 25 horsepower over the previous model, as well as a 1.6 liter hybrid generating 155 horsepower.

The hybrid variant features Hyundai’s latest regenerative braking technology and a new Stay Mode, which allows occupants to use the battery to power the air conditioning and infotainment system while the vehicle is parked, similar to an electric vehicle.