The Elantra GT is a "euro sports" five-door design that provides the comfort and handling of a European sedan with the cargo-carrying versatility only a hatchback can provide. The Elantra GT, scheduled to go on sale this June, features a taut European suspension, which includes higher rate springs, gas-filled shock absorbers and larger diameter anti-roll bars.
Other unique GT features include rear disc brakes, five-spoke alloy wheels, fog lamps, and a unique instrument panel with purple-lighted VDO gauges. Also included as part of the Hyundai Elantra GT package – leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, cruise control, remote keyless entry, and CD stereo and leather seating surfaces with front seat side airbags – all standard for only US$13,999.
The Elantra is powered by Hyundai's sophisticated DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which is rated at 140 horsepower. This engine also powers the Elantra GLS and the sporty Hyundai Tiburon.
Hyundai's display at the New York International Auto Show also features two Hyundai vehicles introduced last year – the XG300 sedan, the largest, most luxurious and most expensive Hyundai ever sold in the U.S. and the Santa Fe, Hyundai's first sport utility designed specifically to meet the needs and preferences of U.S. consumers. Completing the Hyundai display is the mid-size Sonata sedan, the Elantra GLS 4-door sedan and the sub-compact Accent.