19th July, 2012
Hyundai Elantra has been ranked “Car of the Year 2011” by the Nigerian Auto Awards at the seventh edition of the annual event which took place penultimate week at the Civic Centre, Lagos. Elantra defeated arch rivals, Kia Optima, Toyota Avensis, Audi A6 and Land Rover HSE, to cart away the coveted plaque.
The board of adjudicators says Elantra’s fluidic sculpture, styling and driving dynamics played out among the indices that distinguished the fifth generation Hyundai Elantra. Coming barely five months after it emerged “Car of the Year” for 2012 in a similar competition by South African Guild of Motoring Journalists and West Bank, the Hyundai Elantra could undoubtedly be the car to beat.
The car was also recently named “Best compact saloon” by South Africa’s CAR Magazine in its Top 12 Best Buys edition for 2012 and rated “North American Car of the Year 2012.” A comparatively familiar sedan, Hyundai Elantra, made its foray into the global marketplace between 1990 and 1995 when the first generation Elantra debuted. “Now sharpened to perfection, the latest Elantra is everything and more you would expect from Hyundai,” the Nigerian Auto Awards’ jury affirmed.
Presenting the commemorative plaque to Hyundai Motors, the custodian of the brand in Nigeria, the judges said that Elantra is renowned for its wind-craft design, which is in sync with the car’s daring fluidic sculpture and harmonious styling that consent with Hyundai’s recent product line-up. The judges also applauded the relatively low roofline and stylish, sleek curves that not only project a sporty and dynamic style, but improves aerodynamics and lowers air resistance to contribute to Elantra’s outstanding fuel economy and quiet cabin space.
Elantra’s relaxed interior also scored high points, particularly the silver garnish that starts from the crash pad and leads to the console featuring a windblown shape that exudes the overall refined and dynamic image.
The judges were also blown away by the quality of design and materials with refined fit and finish and ergonomically correct appointments in the Elantra’s interior, which they say, exceed expectations in the compact segment.