Sedans don’t usually get second chances, yet the Hyundai Elantra somehow keeps one open. In the US alone, sales climbed 8 percent last year, reaching 148,200 units, which makes the car’s continued evolution harder to ignore.

After seeing the new Tucson in action, it is time to admire the upcoming Elantra while undergoing testing in cold weather. The camouflage around its body indicates major changes in terms of design cues, even if it seems that it is not trying to impress anyone.

Exterior

At the front, the new 2027 Hyundai Elantra will feature T-shaped LED daytime running lights, now sitting above rectangular headlights. There is also a new front bumper that perfectly complements the lights.

Below, a wide lower intake spans the bumper, finished with horizontal bars. The grille, partially visible through camouflage, looks significantly smaller than the current model’s, and that alone suggests a shift in priorities.

Along the sides, the transformation continues, though more quietly. The lines appear purposeful, less flamboyant, and the roofline looks flatter than before. A thick C-pillar dominates the rear section, paired with a small slice of rear quarter glass. The beltline and bodywork seem intentionally conservative, which may feel surprising at first, but then logical the longer you look. Around back, details remain obscured, but vertical taillights with horizontal turn signals are clearly visible. These are joined by a rounded rear bumper and a sizable spoiler.

Interior

With the camouflage around the body, there is little to notice in terms of cabin details. The interior appears to be covered by a black sheet, leaving little that can be confirmed with confidence. For now, any discussion about layout or materials simply has to wait.

Infotainment

Infotainment, however, is less of a mystery. The next Elantra is expected to feature Hyundai’s new Pleos system. Based on Android Automotive, it offers a smartphone-style interface and incorporates artificial intelligence. It’s a familiar direction, though still an important one for this segment.

Complete Powertrain Information

The 2027 Hyundai Elantra will retain the current model’s powertrain. We are dealing here with a 1.6-liter turbo engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, along with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder pot, with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. For the new model, Hyundai might also be preparing a hybrid version and a new N model.

Conclusion

Taken as a whole, the redesigned Elantra doesn’t feel radical, and maybe that’s the point. From my point of view, the move toward a more restrained design aligns with a model that’s still selling well in a difficult segment. With cold-weather testing underway and a debut expected next year, the next Elantra appears to be choosing longevity over spectacle, even if it takes a moment to fully register that change.