IF the sales are falling, you Go out and fix the problem.
Was that what Hyundai thought when it named its new buyer-catcher the Go?
We’ll never know, but the outcome is a revised Elantra range for 2019, with the Go as the new entry model.
Elantra sales are down somewhat on last year as buyers opt for the slightly smaller i30, but the revised range should be quite a sales carrot.
The re-shaping of the line-up has promoted the Active from base to mid-range and replaced the SR Turbo with Sport and a higher-spec Sport Premium.
Good news is that it’s now $500 cheaper to get into an Elantra, with the new Go manual starting from $21,490 plus on-roads. Automatic transmission adds $2300.
The Go is introduced as a value-focused model, well-spec’d with a 7.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility plus cruise control, auto-on headlights and a reversing camera.
The range has had a bit of a styling makeover with new front treatment featuring redesigned squinty headlights and the back has been given a sexy look with new tail lights, an integrated bootlid spoiler and lower diffuser.
The updated interior has a new dash with a ‘Supervision’ cluster, new steering wheel design, and new trims and finishes.
Go and Active retain the 112kW/192Nm 2.0-litre drivetrains and the Sport and Sport Premium also stay with the existing 150kW 1.6-litre turbo engine and 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Active now has leather trim and a bigger, 8.0-inch touchscreen, satnav and eight-speaker Infinity audio system with digital radio, and prices are from $25,990.
A SmartSense safety pack is also an option for the Go (automatic) and Elantra Active.
The $1700 pack comprises blind spot warning, driver fatigue analysis, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, rear cross traffic warning, radar cruise control and power folding side mirrors.
Prices for the hotshot Sport models have not yet been released.
“The attractively restyled 2019 Elantra builds on its all-rounder appeal, with a compelling new Go range-opener, a value-packed Active variant, and performance focused Sport models,” Hyundai CEO JW Lee said.
“With a SmartSense safety pack, Hyundai Auto Link, and upgraded infotainment systems the 2019 Elantra is an appealing offering, with the reassurance of our five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, and Lifetime Service Plan.”
As well, every 2019 Elantra benefits from an Australian-specific suspension tune and electric power steering calibration.
| Go | Manual | $21,490 |
| Go | Automatic | $23,790 |
| Active | Automatic | $25,990 |
| Sport | Automatic | TBA |
| Sport Premium | Automatic | TBA |
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