2011 Hyundai Elantra interior spy shot [via HyundaiBlog]

2011 Hyundai Elantra interior spy shot [via HyundaiBlog]

The Hyundai brand has just been getting better and better over the past couple decades and as such are putting some real competition into the entry-level sedan market. This is especially true in the United States where the Hyundai boasts one of the best manufacturer warranties available. The Hyundai Elantra has been a pretty impressive car over the years, with the real praise starting with the 2002 model year and from their they have just been getting better—even in the style department. The automotive rumor mill had the next generation of the Elantra launching in 2013, but more recent reports say it will launch in 2011.

The newest spy shots show the interior really well, but even the exterior shots with the camouflage give distinct impressions that the body will be more like the 2010 Kia Forte than like the outgoing Elantra body. The interior, according to Hyundai Blog, takes the cluster setup from the new 2011 Hyundai Tucson crossover and the steering wheel design from the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. Given that the cues for the spy shots are in line with the other vehicles that are to come to market in 2011, it is a good bet that this won’t change to much when it reaches the auto show circuit later next year (possibly at the L.A. Auto Show).  

The exterior is less defined and with the camouflage on the outside it is harder to know if the body will stay the same for the final version presented at the auto shows or if it will take a drastic turn. It is fairly certain that it will be a unique twist on the Kia Forte’s coupe-esque roofline. Something else that may intrigue consumers is the dash FLDR button near the radio, which could indicate an integrated hard drive for music storage and playback.

Bottom line—the next generation Elantra may have some of the best looks and options in its class. That paired with the warranty makes it a must consider in the entry-level car market.