Hyundai Avante
Maxabout Review
Next Big Thing From Hyundai
Sunday, January 13, 2008
After the successful launch of i20 in India, Hyundai India is all set to launch another global model - Avante - in Indian market. It is a D segment car which is sold as Elantra in other markets, but in India Elantra has been a major flop so Hyundai is expected to launch it as Avante. Avante offers an excellent choice for drivers who need a compact car with an economic frame of mind in a handsome body with good lines and an eye toward style. Hyundai's sedan is currently in its fourth generation, and this Elantra (Avante) is the best ever.
The impressive exterior styling, with its clean lines and sculpted body sides, borrows design characteristics from the larger and more expensive high end sedans. It is a more spacious sedan model than its previous incarnation, it can seat up to five passengers and has storage compartments galore.The interior is comfortable, functional and spacious, with well-padded seating, but not necessarily an example of modern style. Take it for a spin and you'll likely be impressed by its smooth ride and responsive handling. Standard safety features include anti-lock disc brakes on all wheels with systems for electronic distribution of brake force.
Hyundai has also added electronic stability control as an included feature. onsiderably more spacious than its previous incarnation, the current generation Elantra (Avante) can seat up to five and has storage compartments galore. If you're looking for a small sedan that suits a tight budget, this one belongs on your short list of contenders.
Avante's ride is an asset in comparison to many class rivals, abetted by a stout structural feel. It absorbs most small bumps easily, but floats some over large humps and dips at highway speed. The suspension allows some cornering lean, but the tires furnish good dry-road grip. New electric power steering is quick, but feels a tad light. The brakes furnish fine stopping control and pedal feel.
As far as safety is concerned Avante will come with standard safety features like ABS (Anti Lock Brakes) on all wheels with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution). There will be a full array of airbags that includes dual front airbag, side-impact and side-curtain airbags with active head restraints in the front on the high end models.
Avante is expected to be launched in both diesel and petrol with 5 speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The Petrol model will be powered by a 1591cc DOHC CVVT engine which generates maximum power of 118 Bhp at 6200 rpm with maximum torque of 156 Nm at 4200 rpm. The Diesel one will be powered by a 1582cc CRDi engine which generates maximum power of 115 Bhp at 4000 rpm with maximum torque of 260 Nm at 1900 rpm.
Hyundai Avante is expected to be priced anywhere between 10-13 lakhs depending on the model and trim level. It will be a direct rival to Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis and Skoda Octavia.