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Hyundai has slotted in a new, top value Elantra FX model between its
existing, tariff-reduced $18,490 entry-level Elantra HVT and the top line Elite
which itself now offers more for less.
To the Elantra HVT’s already comprehensive standard feature list, the new
Elantra FX adds the safety of an anti-skid braking system (ABS) with EBD
(electronic brakeforce distribution) and cruise control, plus a trip computer,
leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift lever knob and blue hue instrument
lighting. The centre console also gains bi-level bin storage topped with a
padded armrest while an overhead console with sunglasses box, extra interior
light and twin map lights is also featured.
The FX also shares upgrades to Elantra HVT which include an automatic power
aerial, chrome surrounds for the front grille (previously sedan only) and
body-colour rear rego plate garnish, but is distinguished from the HVT by its FX
badge on the rear.
Elantra FX is available in both five-door liftback and four-door sedan
variants and is priced from just $19,990*. An extra $590 buys the Extra Safety
Pack comprising front seat side airbags.
Meanwhile the Elantra Elite adds front seat side airbags and a boot luggage
net or hammock to its unique leather interior trim, alloy wheels and front fog
lights package and is repriced from just $22,990*, a $1000 reduction. In
response to customer feedback, the rear wing fitted to the 2004 Elite has been
deleted in 2005.
Elantra is one of the biggest and roomiest cars in the Small Car class and
its 2.0 litre HVT (Hyundai Variable-valve Timing) twin-cam engine has the most
torque at 186Nm and equal most maximum power at 105kW in its price class. The
Elantra five-door liftback offers the same voluminous boot room as its sedan
stablemate, while some of its major competitor’s hatch models crop rear end
length and cargo room.
Standard equipment in all Elantras includes air-conditioning, dual front
airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load-limiters, remote entry with
alarm, electric windows and door mirrors, MP3-capable CD/FM/AM audio with
tweeter speakers, split double-folding rear seats and the ride comfort
suppleness of all-independent suspension. An Astrel (Hyundai’s accessory brand)
Sports Suspension kit comprising top quality Eibach springs from Germany offers
a lower ride height and sportier handling.
Like all Hyundais, Elantra reassures owners with the build quality and
integrity implicit in its long-established, fully transferable factory five-year
/ 130,000km new car warranty.
In recent independent frontal and side impact crash testing done by the US
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to virtually the same test regimes as
done by NCAP in Australia, Europe, Japan and Korea, the Elantra was rated
“Good”, the top rating level.
In 2004, Elantra was a consistent seller, topping Hyundai’s monthly sales in
Australia on some occasions.
* recommended retail price plus on-road costs
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