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2017 Hyundai Elantra debuts at LA Auto Show (pictures)

Hyundai's immensely popular Elantra sedan grows up, both physically and technologically, with the debut of the sixth-generation model.

Antuan Goodwin
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Antuan Goodwin
2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited
1 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

LOS ANGELES -- Over the course of five generations, Hyundai's compact Elantra has grown from a cheap upstart to a serious contender in its segment.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
2 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The sixth-generation Elantra burst onto the scene at the 2015 LA Auto Show, continuing the evolution of the model.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
3 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The 2017 Elantra is about an inch wider and longer than before. Overall height and wheelbase haven't changed.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
4 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The new headlamps are narrower and stretch horizontally, which enhances the low and wide look.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

One of the most dramatic changes is to the roofline; its extended and gentle slope now stretches nearly to the end of the trunklid.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

17-inch wheels fill the arches of this Limited trim model.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
7 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The Elantra will be offered with two engine options. There's a 2.0-liter base engine and a 1.4-liter turbocharged Eco option coming in spring 2016.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

That Atkinson cycle engine is rated at 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

A six-speed manual transmission is available on the base SE model, but most Elantras will use a revised six-speed automatic.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

However, the Eco model will feature a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which will help it exceed 40 highway mpg.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The more grown-up Elantra will feature a more grown-up selection of driver aid technologies and premium amenities.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Drivers will have a choice between a 7-inch display audio system and an 8-inch navigation system.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Hyundai's BlueLink infotainment system features dual USB connectivity, Pandora connectivity and Siri Eyes-free functionality.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Dual-zone climate controls are another premium feature we're surprised to see offered on the Elantra.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Drivers will be able to beam destinations for navigation to the dashboard via Google Maps and control certain vehicle functions with an Apple Watch or Android Wear device.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
16 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The Elantra's cabin has increased in volume so much that the compact sedan is technically now classified as a midsize vehicle.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

A color information display is flanked by a pair of crisp analog gauges.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Hyundai teases that we'll see a new Elantra Sport model sometime in 2016 and that it will be the most powerful version yet.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

With about 10 million vehicles sold, the Elantra is the sixth-best-selling car in the world.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The Hyundai is more aerodynamic than the previous model and much of its competition.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The 2017 Hyundai Elantra goes on sale in early 2016.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

LED-illuminated door handle approach lights add a premium feel to the budget sedan.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Hyundai's smart hands-free trunk release will also be available for the Elantra. That feature is most commonly found on hatchbacks and crossovers and is a first for this segment.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
24 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

The list of active safety features has grown exponentially for this generation. The sedan now boasts lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, active emergency braking and more.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
25 of 26 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Vertical LED daytime running lights flank an enlarged and sharpened grille opening. I think I see hints of the Veloster's wild design in there.

2017 Hyundai Elantra
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2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Be sure to check out the rest of CNET's coverage of the 2015 LA Auto Show.

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