Hyundai Sketches New Elantra

Hyundai Motor Co. has released a sketch of its redesigned Elantra compact car, which is expected to arrive next spring.

Based on the drawing, the six-generation model will have the same basic shape as the current Elantra. New styling cues include a sloped roofline, sculpted hood, large hexagonal front grille and Jaguar-like elongated headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights.

Media reports speculate that the vehicle will be more upscale than the current model and loaded with advanced technology features.

Options are expected to include blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The interior will get an 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system and an Infiniti audio system that supports Android Auto and Apple Car Play smartphone connectivity.

Among the initial powertrain choices will be a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, according The Korean Car Blog. The enthusiast site says the new Elantra also will make extensive use of lightweight high-strength steel and be more aerodynamic than the outgoing model.

Hyundai is expected to publicly unveil the vehicle at the Los Angeles auto show in November.