The Avante by Hyundai revs into a new era with a version that is edgier and sportier
The all-new Avante is the seventh generation under the Hyundai brand. The car is also known as the Elantra around the world, with the exception of South Korea, and with this new version, Singapore too. This new version boasts an edgier, sportier look compared to its predecessors with its sleek sharp angular folds, longer body and lower height. Even the car’s rear-end is sharper than those of its predecessors.
To be sure, the Avante’s overall length and height stands at 4,675mm and 1,430mm, slightly longer compared to its closest competitors, while remaining in the middle in terms of height. For instance, the Toyota Corolla Altis measures 4,620mm and 1,475mm, while the new Honda Civic comes in at 4,515mm in length, and 1,416mm in height.
Drivers looking to zest up their ride while requiring the everyday practicality of a four-door sedan will love the new Avante.
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Starting with the exterior, the Avante comes in nine striking colours, including phantom black, fiery red, amazon grey and intense blue. The one I test-drove was intense blue, which stood out on the road, and in the car park. The colour itself, as well as the angular design, gave the car a futuristic look.
Within, the lower driver’s seat made me feel like I was actually driving a sports car. The car’s sport mode on the dial added to the experience.
While I generally prefer a higher seat that affords me a better vantage point when I drive, the car’s shorter dashboard more than makes up for the lower driver’s seat. The shorter dashboard also helped me gauge better.
Ease of movement is excellent, too. The driver’s seat automatically goes in nearer to the pedals when you step in, and vice versa when you step out. The driver’s memory seats function of the car, which remembers your “ideal” position, is thoughtful. In fact, if you are sharing the car with more than one driver, the function allows for two settings to be saved, so you do not have to fumble with adjustments whenever you are in the hot seat.
Should you have passengers frequently, your rides will appreciate the thoughtful handlebar on the centre console, and the large space between the two front seats that will make you feel as if you are sitting in business or first class.
On the road, the ride itself was smooth.
The car had a nice amount of torque; accelerating to overtake felt effortless.
The larger side-mirrors, as well as the safety features — or advanced driving aids such as lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist and blindspot collision avoidance assist — are something I really appreciate about Hyundai’s cars.
Whether you are a rookie driver or an experienced one, it never hurts to have an extra pair of “eyes” looking out for you on the road — including when you are looking to switch lanes.
That said, if I had one complaint about the car, it was that it is a tad too long, which makes it harder to navigate tight spaces.
Hyundai 2021 Avante 1.6
$91,999 (1.6 Auto); $95,999 (1.6 “S”); $101,999 (1.6 “Elite” Sunroof) — all prices include COE
Engine: 1,598 cc
Max power: 90.2 kW/6,300 rpm Max torque: 154nm/4,500 rpm
Fuel consumption: 5.4L/100km 0 to 100 kph: 10.4 seconds
Top speed: 195 km/h
