•  2017 Hyundai Elantra is the successor of the 2016 Elantra model.

2017 Hyundai Elantra is the successor of the 2016 Elantra model. (Photo : YouTube/ Autobytel)

Hyundai is ushering off its months-old 2016 Hyundai Elantra to roll out the newly redesigned 2017 version, which has already earned a superior spot in several reviews in terms of safety and low emissions.

According to Car and Driver, Hyundai has added several structural reinforcements along with additional high-strength steel to the 2017 Hyundai Elantra, with an aspiration of improving crash-test performance and hence the overall safety of the car. All the more so, the company expects a top safety rating from several transport bodies.

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The current Elantra's 173-hp 2.0-liter and 145-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines are getting abandoned in favor of two new power plants. The limited models together with the SE models will now get their power from a 2.0 Atkinson-capable four cylinder powerhouse, with 147 hp and 132 Ib-Ft of torque.

The new engine comes with a six-speed manual in the SE models and a six-speed automatic that is optional on the SE, and standard on the limited version. For the automatic, Hyundai expects fuel-economy ratings of 38 mpg highway, 29 mpg city, and 33 mpg combined.

Soon, there will be yet another eco model with a turbocharged 128 hp, 1.4 four-cylinder engine accompanied by a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, according to Creators. Hyundai regards the model highly in terms of environmental protection.

What is more, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra will be sold in SE and limited vesions, with prices ranging from $18,000 to $23,185. There could be more additional charges, however, like Ultimate ($1,900) packages and $125 for floor mats.

The Ultimate packages will help commuters because of their safety aids for stop-and-go traffic, which add in pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Even more, the included tech elements of the 2017 Elantra will improve the driving experience by employing such extras as an Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, a navigation system with an 8-inch touchscreen, heated front and rear seats, a power sunroof, and an eight-speaker Infinity Audio system.

Car analysts say that the new 2017 Hyundai Elantra has a high-value feeling when one considers its seemingly over-budget details. All the same, each car has distinguishing features, but opinions show that the added safety and eco-friendly nature are some of the details that separate the Elantra from the rest.

Watch a clip of a test drive of the 2017 Hyundai Elantra here: