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Elantra Test-drive : A Request To Reviewers


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#1
ryder

Posted 29 March 2012 - 03:10 PM

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Apart from specifications of all versions of the new Elantra, I presume most people will be interested to know the actual performance of the vehicle. Since there are basically 3 versions of the Elantra - 1.6 MT, 1.6 AT and 1.8 AT, it would be good if those who will be taking these vehicles for a spin during a test-drive can pay extra attention on the following before putting up an online article or review, or on other blogs:-

- acceleration power between 1.6 MT and 1.6AT (to ascertain which version will have better acceleration from standstill. Although the manual transmission is expected to be quicker off the blocks, to ascertain whether the 1.6AT has decent acceleration and not far off from the 1.6MT)

- driving dynamics between 1.6MT and 1.6AT (this is more on steering feel, stability of the vehicle when taking corners at reasonable or high speeds etc., whether the vehicle has a sporty character with tuned suspension, capable of a more spirited drive. Performance will most likely be similar between 1.6 MT and AT, so comparison with other makes such as Forte, Civic, Sylphy or other vehicles will be useful to assess the driveability of the Elantra)

- acceleration power between 1.6AT and 1.8AT (as above)

- driving dynamics between 1.6AT and 1.8AT (as above)


Test-drive sessions that cover these aspects will appeal to potential buyers looking to purchase this new Elantra although the current introductory price may seem to be on the high side.

#2
TheGunner

Posted 29 March 2012 - 03:20 PM

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Your request is noted, and I'll take them into account when reviewing the Elantra. Big question is whether HSDM will even have a 1.6 M/T test car. I tried my best to psycho them into registering one yesterday, let's see how.
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#3
ryder

Posted 29 March 2012 - 03:33 PM

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Thank you for your consideration. Much appreciated.

Forgot to add one more point that is NVH. Quietness in the cabin, road noise from tyres and smoothness of drive.

Looking forward to your review(your past reviews have always been informative and a joy to read). Have fun while you are at it.

#4
TheGunner

Posted 29 March 2012 - 03:35 PM

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Cheers, and thanks for the support. smile_thumbup.gif
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#5
kenso

Posted 29 March 2012 - 07:13 PM

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QUOTE (TheGunner @ Mar 29 2012, 03:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Your request is noted, and I'll take them into account when reviewing the Elantra. Big question is whether HSDM will even have a 1.6 M/T test car. I tried my best to psycho them into registering one yesterday, let's see how.


There were lots of Elantras running around Citta Mall today. Was told that today is for invited guests only .... tomorrow will be the actual day open to public. I saw 5 test units (all with trade plates) parked outside the marquee today ... both 1.6 and 1.8 variants .... all auto though.

#6
TheGunner

Posted 30 March 2012 - 10:14 AM

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QUOTE (kenso @ Mar 29 2012, 07:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
There were lots of Elantras running around Citta Mall today. Was told that today is for invited guests only .... tomorrow will be the actual day open to public. I saw 5 test units (all with trade plates) parked outside the marquee today ... both 1.6 and 1.8 variants .... all auto though.


It's open to public from today till Sunday. Go check it out.
The Gunner

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#7
kenso

Posted 30 March 2012 - 04:45 PM

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Finally finished writing about my test drive experience this morning:

http://kensomuse.blo...impossible.html

Sorry, while many of the points listed by ryder does make sense, the combination of inadequate road/time for the test drive and the lack of a manual variant makes it very challenging to do a detailed review of the car. Nonetheless, I hope the summary of specs at the end of the article helps those who're looking for a Japanese/Korean C segment. Hope you enjoy reading it

#8
ryder

Posted 30 March 2012 - 09:29 PM

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Thanks for the early review Kenso. Apparently the Elantra does have a soft suspension. Similarly this was suggested by folks who have driven it in other countries. It appears that the vehicle may be just suitable for normal everyday use as it doesn't have the character of more sporty types which are able to promote a more spirited and dynamic drive.

The high-spec'ed version in white does look quite good especially with the smoked headlamps. If just the performance and driving dynamics could match the sporty good looks of the vehicle..

#9
kenso

Posted 30 March 2012 - 10:28 PM

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QUOTE (ryder @ Mar 30 2012, 09:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks for the early review Kenso. Apparently the Elantra does have a soft suspension. Similarly this was suggested by folks who have driven it in other countries. It appears that the vehicle may be just suitable for normal everyday use as it doesn't have the character of more sporty types which are able to promote a more spirited and dynamic drive.

The high-spec'ed version in white does look quite good especially with the smoked headlamps. If just the performance and driving dynamics could match the sporty good looks of the vehicle..


You're most welcomed, bro. I think as an overall package, the Elantra does perform well ... only gripe most people have is the price which those who're still focused on engine displacement vs price have an issue against, especially when it's an NA engine

#10
mulli

Posted 31 March 2012 - 02:05 AM

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QUOTE (kenso @ Mar 30 2012, 10:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You're most welcomed, bro. I think as an overall package, the Elantra does perform well ... only gripe most people have is the price which those who're still focused on engine displacement vs price have an issue against, especially when it's an NA engine



nice write up... smile_thumbup.gif

i like the part when the SA says computer needs sometime to warm up... smile_tongue.gif

well, then again, it could be the gps unit acting up...