New Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio to open in Incheon, South Korea on 1 November 2016 as the expansion continues.

• New Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio to open in Incheon, South Korea on 1 November 2016
• The only Rolls-Royce facility in the world to offer closed-course test drives by trained Rolls-Royce instructors
• Third facility for Rolls-Royce in South Korea following the Seoul and recently announced Busan showrooms
• Studio to complement existing dealer network for a seamless customer experience

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, today opened the new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio in South Korea, only the second permanent Studio for the marque worldwide after the ‘Atelier’ at the Home of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Goodwood, England.

The new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio, which opens on 1 November, is the first of its kind in Asia and the only Rolls-Royce facility in the world to offer closed-course test drives. 

As a unique brand experience centre, it will offer guests an insight into the world of the iconic marque in a relaxed atmosphere in the most effortless of manners.

Located close to Incheon International Airport, the 200 m² space is divided into two intimate sections. Visitors are first greeted by the ‘Car Gallery’, showcasing the latest Rolls-Royce models on a rotating basis. 

In the adjoining ‘Atelier’ lounge, visitors can explore the world of Rolls‑Royce Bespoke on an appointment basis. The ‘Atelier’ cossets guests in luxury surroundings reminiscent of Goodwood, bringing a flavour of the Home of Rolls-Royce to South Korea. 

Displays allow visitors to appreciate first-hand the depth of luxurious detailing that goes into crafting a Rolls-Royce and the wealth of Bespoke possitibilities offered, with an extensive range of examples of the wood, leather, paint and features available for their motor car. They will even be able to commission a Bespoke Rolls-Royce should they wish.

Guests will also have the opportunity to drive a variety of Rolls-Royce models on the facility’s 2.6 km closed circuit and surrounding roads. Instructors trained by the Rolls-Royce driving academy in Goodwood will offer bespoke experiences on the best way to ride in or drive a Rolls-Royce, bringing to life the legendary Magic Carpet Ride and helping discerning individuals understand the phenomenal and uniquely luxurious capabilities of a technically state-of-the-art Rolls-Royce.

Speaking at a press conference to inaugurate the Studio, Torsten Müller-Ötvös said, “South Korea is an increasingly popular destination for wealthy clientele in Asia, with Seoul flourishing as a luxury retail destination. 

As a luxury house with a busy clientele, we find it crucial to be able to interact with our customers in a more casual environment when they travel for business and leisure. South Korea is a country of growing importance to us as a business in Asia – last year vehicle deliveries here grew at the fastest rate in the region. 

We look forward to welcoming customers and people interested in Rolls-Royce to this new Studio from throughout South Korea and also around Asia.“

The Rolls-Royce Studio concept began in 2013 with the Rolls-Royce Studio in Cannes on the Cote d’Azur. In summer 2014 Rolls-Royce Motor Cars launched a second ‘Summer Studio’ at the exclusive enclave of Porto Cervo on the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia, Italy. 

The Porto Cervo Summer Studio this year marked its third year welcoming patrons from around the world. All Studios are united by the fact that they are more akin to a club or lounge than a traditional dealership environment.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio Overview

Start of operations:	1 November 2016
Facility size:	200 m2 (Car Gallery: 100m2; Atelier: 100m2)
Opening hours:	9.00am – 6.00pm Tuesday to Sunday (except New Year and Thanks Giving)
Address:	BMW Group Driving Centre, 1677-77, Unseo-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon, Korea

Kia Motors has invested multi Millions of Korean Won in expanding its green areas around the brands facilities.

• Kia approaches landmark five million trees planted at production facilities
• Green space around manufacturing plants equivalent to 866 football pitches
• No cases of soil contamination at any Kia production facility in 15 years
• Domestic investment in environmental initiatives grows 50 per cent year-on-year

Kia Motors Corporation has expanded the amount of green space around its production facilities. In 2015, Kia created an additional 136,289 m² of green space around its manufacturing plants worldwide, the equivalent of 33 football pitches. This is a rise of 3.9 per cent and brings the total area of green space created by Kia at its sites to 3,507,276 m² – the equivalent of 866 football pitches.

Green areas are located at every single one of Kia’s global production facilities. These are Sohari, Hwasung and Gwangju in Korea, Žilina in Slovakia, Georgia in the USA, and in Yancheng Province, China.

Kia Motors sees afforestation as a cornerstone for developing even more eco-friendly production facilities and, by the end of 2015, the company had planted a total of 4.94 million trees at its manufacturing facilities. The planting of trees at each production site helps absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. With a single tree able to absorb up to 22 kg of CO₂ per year, around 107.5 million tons of CO₂ are absorbed as a result of afforestation by Kia.

As a result of Kia’s ongoing efforts to introduce a higher proportion of green areas at each of its production facilities, the company has managed to avoid any instances of soil contamination at any of its production sites since 2000.

In 2015, Kia invested 38.5 billion Korean Won (GBP £27 million) into green initiatives at its three domestic Korean plants to further prevent potential environmental issues at the source. Year-on-year, this investment is 50 per cent higher than in 2014, and many of the new initiatives – such as manufacturing and painting processes being free from hazardous substances – will be rolled out across Kia’s global manufacturing facilities in the near future.

Kia Motors is committed to pursuing effective innovations and improvements to production processes at every one of its global production facilities, in order to further reduce its impact on the environment. The company’s efforts in this regard, along with the development of alternative powertrains and the use of recyclable, eco-friendly materials in its vehicles, have been recognised by Interbrand - the world’s leading brand consultancy. Interbrand included Kia in 35^th place in its most recent Best Global Green Brands report.

SsangYong, The SUV and 4x4 manufacturer is to promote its new Tivoli crossover in the UK through a fully integrated campaign

SsangYong launches its biggest digital UK promotion

SsangYong, Korea’s leading SUV and 4x4 manufacturer is to promote its new Tivoli crossover in the UK through a fully integrated campaign.

Capitalising on the passion that the stylish Tivoli is evoking in the market, SsangYong has developed a campaign that gets to the heart of why its latest model is getting so much attention.

Complementing the Tivoli’s ’ilovit’ advertising campaign, this latest digital, social media and print promotion encourages consumers to say what they love about the Tivoli’s class leading features.

The campaign uses SsangYong’s social media platforms to generate additional interest and drive traffic to the main website.

The competition offers the prize of a weekend break to Tivoli near Rome - from which the car takes its name - and concludes in March.

Steve Gray, marketing & communications director of SsangYong Motor UK said about the brand’s latest campaign.  “Tivoli has sold extremely well since its launch and is attracting a much younger and increasingly female audience than previously experienced.  This is a fun way to engage with these new and more youthful customers online and via social media.”

The competition can be found at www.ssangyonggb.co.uk/ilovit and runs for six weeks until Monday 14 March.  It is being promoted via social media, e-mail and point-of-sale at SsangYong dealerships. 

The campaign was devised by integrated marketing agency Visarc and involves two other SsangYong agencies, Pure Media (media planning and buying) and Autoweb (web build).

Kia adds the Optima Hybrid to it's showcase for eco transportation at the Chicago Motor Show 2016.

• Kia’s first plug-in hybrid showcases advanced efficiency and boasts technological refinements
• Advancements in Kia’s hybrid system and increases in electric power combine for increased range and improved driving dynamics 
• Packed with new technology, the Optima PHEV arrives with a new suite of ECO telematics and infotainment upgrades

Kia Motors have unveiled the all-new Optima Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) at the Chicago Auto Show. Kia’s first PHEV joined two other fuel-efficient additions to the brand’s growing line-up of eco-friendly vehicles, including the all-new 2017 Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) and all-new 2017 Optima Hybrid (HEV) (not coming to the UK), all three of which are being introduced under the Kia Motors EcoDynamics environmentally friendly sub-brand. 

A host of new technologies and features in the Kia Optima PHEV, including a more powerful hybrid engine, a smarter and more robust telematics system, exterior design enhancements, and greater interior refinement, all combine to deliver a superior hybrid drive experience.

“As part of our bold initiative to increase fuel efficiency by 25 percent across the entire Kia model line-up by 2020, a plug-in hybrid was a critical addition to our offering. 

The Optima HEV adds hybrid efficiency to the standout styling and vehicle dynamics of our all-new Optima, and the PHEV takes things one step further with all-electric range that is among the best in the segment,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, Kia Motors America (KMA). 

“All three of the vehicles being introduced here at the Chicago Auto Show are emblematic of Kia’s commitment to sustainability and our philosophy that you shouldn’t have to accept compromises when making a green choice.”

The all-new Optima Plug-in Hybrid is crafted with many of the same luxurious appointments of its petrol-powered sibling, along with numerous Hybrid-exclusive touches, including a distinctive instrument cluster and unique exterior design elements and specially designed alloy wheels. 

The Optima Plug-in Hybrid, available in one trim, will be built at Hwasung, South Korea, and is expected to go on sale in the fourth quarter of this year. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

High-efficiency hybrid technology

The all-new Optima PHEV was engineered with a dual focus on efficiency and driving dynamics. Utilising Kia’s highly efficient 2.0-litre “Nu” four-cylinder GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, power output is targeted for a class-leading 154 hp @ 6,000 rpm. Electric power is produced by a transmission-mounted 50 kW motor, which is 42 percent more powerful than in the previous Optima Hybrid to allow for greater all-electric capability. 

This hybrid system provides a fast and seamless transition from EV to petrol to hybrid modes, as well as more refined shift quality. Overall engine efficiency is also improved by the introduction of a High Voltage Electric Oil Pump, replacing the combination mechanical oil pump and low voltage electric pump found in the outgoing Optima Hybrid. 

Transmission cooling changes from natural air to water. These engineering enhancements yield an expected engine efficiency improvement of more than 20 percent.

With an estimated 600 miles of total driving range, the Optima PHEV’s next-generation battery system features a 9.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, which produces roughly 60 percent more energy output than the battery pack found in the outgoing Optima’s hybrid system, and is estimated to achieve 27 miles in full EV mode, placing the Optima PHEV among the segment leaders in all-electric range. 

To increase available cargo capacity in the trunk, the new battery pack is hidden behind the rear seat and tyre well, giving the Optima PHEV one of the largest cargo areas among all midsize PHEVs. This thoughtful change also provides the space needed to offer 60/40 split-folding rear seats, which significantly increases the vehicle’s utility. 

Additional power to the battery system is generated from the vehicle’s improved Regenerative Braking System, which maximises regenerative torque through refined cooperative control between the hybrid control unit and the brake actuation unit, resulting in a 10 percent increase in regenerative energy. 

The Optima PHEV is equipped with a single charging port conveniently located in the driver’s side front wing. A full charge can be achieved in less-than three hours via a 240V (Level 2) charger, and less-than nine hours via a 120V (Level 1) charger.

The all-new Optima PHEV provides its driver with options to reserve electric range via a plug-in hybrid mode select system. Exclusive to the PHEV variant of the all-new Optima, the system includes an all-Electric Mode (EV), which is suitable for short-range city driving, Hybrid Mode (HEV) for highway driving, and Charging Mode, which increases energy direction to the battery while driving at higher speeds. 

The energy produced while in Charging Mode can then be utilised in EV mode, extending the convenience of full electric power without stopping to charge.

All-new Eco-DAS (Driver Assistance System) features Kia’s first application of Coasting Guide. This feature aims at maximising fuel economy by essentially coaching the driver on when to coast and brake via an icon in the Instrument Panel that blinks for four-seconds and sounds a one-time audible alert.

Aerodynamic form and function

Although the new PHEV boasts the same bold styling as the redesigned Optima, it offers distinctive design features and exterior elements that differentiate it from the petrol-powered models in the Optima range, while also achieving the segment’s lowest coefficient of drag, tied with the Tesla Model S at 0.24 Cd. 

Featuring an active grille, which automatically opens and closes at high and low speeds, the PHEV improve aerodynamics while optimising engine bay cooling. Numerous other styling differences include a model-specific front air curtain, a bevelled rear bumper, a rear diffuser designed to streamline airflow by shrouding the exhaust tip, and an aerodynamic alloy-wheel design. 

These are complemented by modern LED lighting, chrome side sill moulding, and ‘Eco Plug-In’ badging. Similar to the gasoline-powered Optima, the PHEV’s wheelbase has been lengthened by 0.4 inches (now 110 inches) over the previous generation Optima, and overall length has increased 0.4 inches to 191.1 inches.

Intelligent technology

The new Optima Plug-In Hybrid makes intelligent use of technology to deliver a host of driver assistance systems and convenience features. Like the HEV, the PHEV offers Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), which, under appropriate conditions, will bring the vehicle to a complete stop to potentially avoid a collision or reduce damage. 

Other key driver assistance systems include Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Front Collision Warning System (FCWS).

The Optima Plug-In Hybrid has the richest set of UVO telematics in any vehicle Kia has ever produced. With more than 30 features, the PHEV encompasses technology from Kia’s flagship telematics vehicle, the Soul EV, and adds Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay. 

UVO EV Services includes LTE wireless connectivity that enables direct communication to the vehicle for features such as remote start/stop, remote preconditioning of cabin temperature, and remote lock/unlock via the UVO app. Included in the app is a full suite of My Car Zone features, which includes curfew and speed alerts and Geofence settings, as well as Local Search powered by Google^® , which allows users to easily search for POIs (Points of Interest).

Exclusive EV features for charging convenience include the ability to locate charging stations, an option to check your vehicle’s charge status, as well as scheduling charge events. Adding hands-free connectivity is Google^® Voice Recognition Local Search, which can search for POIs utilising voice recognition technology. Additionally, within the Kia App Store, apps can be downloaded to the head-unit using the PHEV’s Wi-Fi capability. 

Available at no cost for the first three years of ownership with no subscription necessary, UVO EV Services utilises an embedded connectivity solution powered by the Verizon^® network and the UVO smartphone app to provide Optima Plug-In Hybrid owners with an innovative, real-time, in-vehicle connectivity experience.

Drivers are treated to an outstanding audio experience with the available Harman/Kardon QuantumLogic™ Premium Surround Sound Audio System, which includes 10 speakers, Clari-Fi™ technology and an upgraded 630-watt digital amplifier. Introduced in the 2016 Sorento, Clari-Fi is a patented music restoration technology that rebuilds audio signals that are lost in the digital compression process.

Editor’s note: All technical specifications and standard/optional features in this press release refer to the U.S. model and may differ from models marketed in other regions.

USA - The New Hyundai Elantra better in everyway, and cheaper than the car it replaces, what's not to like.

The all-new 2017 Hyundai Elantra arrives in dealerships this month, featuring a bold aerodynamic design, a comprehensive suite of safety features, modern interior styling with class-above features, and a number of user-friendly technologies. 

It continues to be one of Hyundai’s all time best-selling models, known for its significant value advantage in a highly competitive compact car segment. 

Starting at $17,150 the new Elantra is priced $100 less than the award-winning model it replaces and offers two new efficient powertrains for enhanced fuel economy, a better ride quality and improved noise insulation.

Assembled in both Montgomery, Alabama and Ulsan, South Korea, the new Elantra distinguishes itself from the compact car class with segment-first premium features such as a hands-free Smart Trunk and Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology, plus additional convenience and safety items. 

The 2017 Elantra is available with a full suite of the latest advanced safety technologies including Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist. 

The Elantra is expected to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

CONFIDENT EXTERIOR

The new Elantra projects confidence with sculpted body forms complemented by smoothly contoured lines that reveal the underlying inspiration of Hyundai designers. Inspired by the concept of dynamic precision, Elantra’s architecture was a perfect platform for collaboration between Hyundai designers and engineers to blend advanced styling with functional aerodynamics.

From the front, the new Elantra is defined by Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille that projects a distinctive character when combined with its modern lighting signatures, including available HID headlights with Dynamic Bending Lights and unique vertical LED daytime running lights, which are firsts for Elantra. 

Elantra’s sporty lower front fascia integrates functional front wheel air curtains, a component derived from the Sonata Hybrid that helps manage air flow from the front of the vehicle and around the wheels to minimize turbulence and wind resistance. 

In addition, underbody covers, an aerodynamic rear bumper bottom spoiler and rear decklid designed with an expanded trunk edge contribute to Elantra’s 0.27 coefficient of drag.

Elantra features a sleek bodyside character line that accentuates a sweeping side window silhouette and striking side profile. 

Available premium features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, all-new LED door handle approach lights, side mirror LED turn signal indicators and LED taillights with high tech graphics add a level of sophistication and detail to this class-above compact sedan. 

The 2017 Elantra will be offered in eight exterior colors, five new to the model. Elantra’s overall length has increased by just under an inch and its proportions are further enhanced by increasing its width by 1.0-inches, presenting a more athletic stance and stable appearance. 

2017 Elantra Improved Proportions

Specification (in.)	2016 Elantra	Change	2017 Elantra
Overall Length	179.1	+0.8	179.9
Overall Width	69.9	+1.0	70.9
Overall Height	56.5	-	56.5
Wheelbase	106.3	-	106.3

MODERN INTUITIVE INTERIOR

On the inside, Elantra continues to depict a modern, driver-oriented design optimized for intuitive control, improved interior roominess, high-quality materials and premium technology features. The contemporary interior design integrates premium soft-touch materials in key touch points and high-tech details to create an inviting and comfortable interior environment for all passengers.

The wide design of the instrument panel provides a feeling of spaciousness and is available with a 4.2-inch color TFT LCD instrument display for improved driver visibility and functionality. 

The rest of the center stack is laid out in a horizontal design with buttons and controls placed in logical groups by function, and a slight seven degree tilt toward the driver for optimal ergonomics. 

Available premium convenience features such as a segment-first integrated memory system for the power driver seat and side mirrors, dual automatic temperature control with auto defogging system and auto-dimming rearview mirror further enhance driving comfort, along with advanced ergonomic front seats. 

The front seats feature high-tension lightweight seat frames for improved performance in collisions, and a multi-firmness seat pad to help reduce driver fatigue over long distances.

In fact, all of Elantra’s seats, covered in either cloth or available leather, are made of SoyFoam™, an environmentally friendly seating foam that substitutes petroleum based polyol with hydroxyl-functionalized soybean oil and optimizes the formulation/process to maximize mechanical performance. For added comfort and convenience, passengers enjoy available heated front and rear seats with a versatile 60/40 split-folding rear seat. 

Elantra also offers class-above total interior volume with improved front and rear headroom. At 110.2 cu. ft. of total interior volume, the 2017 Elantra is classified as a Midsize car by the EPA, which is a class above Mazda3, Ford Focus and some premium models. 

2017 Elantra Class-Above Interior Volume

Specification (cu.ft.)	2017 Hyundai Elantra	2016 Ford Focus	2016 Mazda3	2016 Honda Civic	2016 Toyota Corolla
Passenger Volume	95.8	90.7	96.3	97.8	97.5
Cargo Volume	14.4	13.2	12.4	15.1	13.0
Total Interior Volume	110.2	103.9	108.7	112.9	110.5
EPA Size Classification	Midsize	Compact	Compact	Midsize	Midsize

Premium Model Comparison

Specification (cu.ft.)	2017 Hyundai Elantra	2016 Cadillac CTS	2016 Audi A4	2016 BMW  3-Series	2016 Acura ILX
Passenger Volume	95.8	97.0	90.6	96.0	89.3
Cargo Volume	14.4	13.0	12.4	13.0	12.3
Total Interior Volume	110.2	110.0	103.0	109.0	101.6
EPA Size Classification	Midsize	Midsize	Compact	Compact	Compact

In addition to passenger comfort, improving interior cabin noise management and reducing road noise were top development priorities for Hyundai engineers. To reduce engine sound a hood insulator is equipped on the majority of Elantra models. 

Engineers also reduced the aperture size in the front dash panel by 25 percent, increased the thickness of the front door window glass, and added various sound absorption materials in all pillars, inner fenders and floorpan. In an effort to further improve NVH characteristics, engineers also applied plastic and rubber bushings to the front sub-frame and increased the bushings size of the lower control arm.

REFINED & RESPONSIVE CHASSIS

The 2017 Elantra is lighter than the outgoing model, and its rigid chassis is now reinforced with 53 percent advanced high-strength steel compared with 21 percent from the previous model, providing improved stiffness at a lower body weight. 

This increased usage results in a 29.5 percent stiffer torsional rigidity and 25.3 percent greater bending strength, which bring improvements in vehicle ride and handling, quietness, durability and driving performance. Furthermore, the new Elantra increased structural adhesive application 40 times at higher stress points on the chassis and to reinforce welding areas. 

A component often found in aerospace applications, these structural adhesives also contribute to improved NVH and vehicle dynamics due to extra stiffness in the chassis. Hyundai engineers focused on these enhancements to develop a more rigid body structure in an effort to target top safety ratings by the IIHS and NHTSA.

Improved ride comfort, handling and stability are achieved through Elantra’s redesigned rear suspension geometry that modifies the angle of the rear shock absorbers and changed the position of the coil springs on the coupled torsion beam axle. Additionally, an increase in rear bushing diameter helps to improve long term durability. 

Elantra’s front suspension uses an optimally designed McPherson strut with coil springs and gas shock absorbers along with a front stabilizer bar to help reduce body roll when cornering. 

The standard Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system instantly adjusts to changing driving conditions for greater precision and steering feel while improving fuel economy. Increased caster provides safe and reliable steering feedback at highway speeds. 

ALL-NEW POWERTRAINS

For 2017, the Elantra receives two all-new powertrains designed for improved fuel efficiency and everyday drivability performance. The standard engine available on the base SE and Limited trim is a 2.0-liter Nu MPI Atkinson four-cylinder engine producing a peak 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb. ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm. 

This Atkinson cycle-type engine reduces pumping loss by delaying the close timing of the intake valve in the compression stroke, therefore maximizing the expansion ratio – it is the only Atkinson cycle engine to be combined with multi-port injection in the compact class. 

This greater expansion ratio is made more efficient by allowing additional energy to be produced. Furthermore, this engine features a high compression ratio of 12.5.

Other enhancements include intermediate valve cam phasing that increases the operational range of the intake valves and helps to reduce pumping loss. High energy ignition coils are also adopted to increase combustion efficiency through increasing spark intensity. 

A new electronically controlled thermostat decreases pumping energy and allows the thermostat to open at a higher temperature. Finally, piston cooling jets are added to cool down the piston by spraying oil at the lower position of the piston resulting in knock stability and fuel economy improvements. 

All of this results in up to a 2.2 percent increase in efficiency for optimized fuel economy, and up to an EPA fuel economy rating of 29 city / 38 highway / 33 combined mpg (for the Elantra SE with 6-A/T).

This 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder engine is paired with either a standard six-speed manual transmission (available only on the SE trim) or Elantra’s next generation six-speed automatic transmission. The new automatic transmission helps deliver dynamic performance with an overall 3.3 percent increase in efficiency for optimized fuel economy. 

A new valve body improves gear shift responsiveness and control, while an optimization in oil pump size aids in improving operating efficiency. A multi-clutch torque converter is also a new addition that allows more control over lock-up. Finally, rolling resistance and friction are minimized by adopting double angular ball bearings.

The second powertrain is an all-new 1.4-liter Kappa turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine equipped on the Elantra Eco trim, available in Spring 2016. This engine produces 128 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a robust 156 lb-ft. of torque at a low 1,400 ~ 3,700 rpm and will be mated to an EcoShift seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Eco trim is projected to achieve an unsurpassed estimated 35 mpg combined rating based on internal testing.

Other features of the 1.4L turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine include an integrated cylinder head and exhaust manifold that improves fuel economy 5~7 percent at higher engine speeds. An optimized straight intake port increases tumble flow for fast combustion, suppressing knock tendency and improving fuel economy. The turbocharger is a single scroll design with an electric wastegate actuator. 

The optimized turbine and compressor employs a sophisticated scavenging strategy that improves low-end torque and response, while the electric wastegate actuator improves low-end torque and part-load fuel economy by reducing back pressure. Finally, the high pressure fuel injectors have six individually sized laser drilled holes to optimize the fuel spray pattern.

Both engines feature a multitude of friction-reducing and cooling components and high efficiency engineering features designed to enhance fuel economy and maximize performance. 

In addition, all Elantra trims are equipped with the new Drive Mode Select feature that adjusts both powertrain performance and steering effort, allowing the driver to customize the driving character by selecting from three modes: Eco, Normal or Sport, simply by touching a button on the center console.

OCCUPANT SAFETY

In addition to the strengthened chassis, the 2017 Elantra makes structural improvements to the front side members that are now a hexagonal design and the dash-to-cowl connection has also been reinforced. 

The front apron to the A-pillar now features a straight and continuous load path and has hot stamping applied on the front side rear lower member. B-pillar assemblies feature partial softening hot stamping that start with a reinforcement section (150kgf grade) and then transition into a softening section (100kgf grade) to help absorb side impact. 

The rear doors also feature dual impact beams. A seven airbag system is standard, including a new driver’s knee airbag, along with Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Traction Control, ABS and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The 2017 Elantra is expected to receive an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5-star safety rating.

New for 2017, the Elantra also offers a wide array of advanced safety technologies, often reserved for luxury cars, to provide another defensive safety layer for its passengers beyond the standard safety system. 

Available Automatic Emergency Braking with class-exclusive Pedestrian Detection is a technology that utilizes both the front forward facing radar and camera through sensor fusion to detect a vehicle or pedestrian, and warn the driver of a potential collision. If the driver does not react to avoid the impact, the system will apply emergency braking.

Additional Elantra-first safety technologies include available Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist, and a rearview camera, now with dynamic guidance. 

The Lane Keep Assist System uses a forward-facing camera to detect lane markings and will alert the driver if the vehicle drifts outside the lane without signaling. The system will apply corrective steering assistance if necessary, and is another active safety tool to assist Elantra drivers and help prevent accidents.

INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY & FEATURES

The 2017 Elantra truly advances ahead of the compact car class with innovative technology that enhances driver confidence and convenience, without the premium price. Elantra’s segment-exclusive hands-free Smart Trunk, allows Elantra drivers to conveniently open the trunk if their hands are full by simply approaching the rear of the vehicle with the key fob in a purse or pocket. An audible beep will sound three times, and the trunk will automatically open, making it easy to place items in the cargo area.

The new Elantra enhances the driver experience with available all new Dynamic Bending Light and Smart Cruise Control technology. Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) works in tandem with the HID headlights, so they turn-in with the direction of the steering wheel for better nighttime visibility and safety, while the additional High Beam Assist feature automatically dims the high beams when approaching vehicles are detected. 

Elantra’s Smart Cruise Control (SCC) makes highway and long distance driving more comfortable. Using a radar sensor mounted on the lower front grille, the SCC system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead in varied traffic conditions by automatically adjusting vehicle speed as needed.

ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY AND MULTIMEDIA

All Elantras come standard with iPhone®/USB and auxiliary input jacks and SiriusXM® satellite radio. New for 2017, the Elantra features two advanced infotainment systems beyond the base audio system that perfectly cater to the digitally connected – an available 7.0-inch Display Audio touchscreen system with rearview camera, and Hyundai’s next-generation 8.0-inch navigation system. 

Both multimedia systems are equipped with Apple® CarPlay and Android® Auto support for seamless and intuitive operation of the most commonly used smartphone functions including app-based navigation, streaming audio, voice-controlled search capabilities, plus any approved smartphone apps. Since smartphone integration requires a wired connection to the vehicle, Elantra provides an available second USB port for charging – the first application on a Hyundai vehicle.

The advanced 8.0-inch navigation system features an enhanced display with improved touch sensitivity for touch and drag control, increased screen brightness for better daytime visibility, and a split-screen display showing map and music data. Both SiriusXM® Satellite Radio and HD Radio® Technology are standard on this system. 

For additional convenience and connectivity, navigation-equipped Elantras offer pre-loaded apps, voice control functions, and premium SiriusXM features.

• Pandora® capability
• Real-time SiriusXM® Travel Link® three-month trial period, including traffic, weather, sports, stocks, fuel prices, even movie times, multi-cultural channels and presets recording capability
• SiriusXM® Tune Start – plays current song from the beginning when tuning into a preset channel
• “Eyes Free” Siri integration – voice control function to prevent driver distraction

For the first time, Elantra also will offer an eight-speaker Infinity premium audio system, including a center speaker and subwoofer. Furthermore, music lovers will appreciate Hyundai’s first application of Harman’s patented Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology. 

Clari-Fi™ analyzes digital audio files during playback and automatically rebuilds much of what was lost in the compression process. This delivers a musical experience closer to the artists’ original intent, with increased dynamic range for enhanced realism, and improved overall fidelity.

NEXT-GENERATION BLUE LINK®

The 2017 Elantra offers the next-generation Hyundai Blue Link system with enhanced safety, service and infotainment telematics. Blue Link brings seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like Remote Start w/ Climate Control, Destination Search powered by Google®, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. 

Blue Link can be easily accessed from the buttons on the rearview mirror, the web or via smartphone app. Some of these features can even be controlled via the latest Android Wear™ and new Apple Watch™ smartwatch offerings.

Blue Link is offered in three service packages: Connected Care & Remote is available on all models and Guidance is available on Navigation-equipped models. 2017 Elantras equipped with Blue Link offer one year of complimentary Blue Link Connected Care.

Connected Care package (complimentary for 1-year):

• Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) and Assistance
• SOS Emergency Assistance
• Enhanced Roadside Assistance
• Monthly Vehicle Health Report
• Maintenance Alerts
• Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification (DTC)
• Service Link
• Blue Link App (smartphone, smartwatch)
• On-Demand Diagnostics
• Driving Information

Remote package:

• Remote Start with Climate Control
• Remote Door Lock/Unlock
• Remote Horn and Lights
• Car Finder via Mobile App
• Stolen Vehicle Recovery/Slowdown/Immobilization
• Vehicle Safeguard Alerts:
  • Geo-Fence
  • Valet Alert
  • Speed/Curfew Alert

Guidance package (Navigation-equipped models):

• Destination search powered by Google®
• Destination Send-to-Car by Google®