2011 Hyundai Elantra compact sedan spied testing in South Korea.

Spies have caught next-generation Elantra sedan testing in South Korea. Even though a heavily disguised prototype of a fully revamped C-segment car, which will compete against new Ford Focus, Chevy Cruze and established Civic and Corolla, wears plenty of camouflage, it does reveal a few interesting design details to us. 

In terms of design, the 2011 Elantra represents a major departure from the uninspiring design language of the current model. As evident from the spy shots, the overall exterior shape of new Elantra sedan is heavily inspired by the 2011 Sonata mid-size sedan.

It sports a sloping, coupe-like profile with short front and rear overhangs, stretched back head-lamps. Its steeply raked front windshield and the sloping roof-line create a very eye-catching coupe-ish side profile.

The 2011 Elantra sedan will host a range of fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, including a 1.6L GDI and 2.0L Theta II engines, generating between 140 and 165 horsepower. It is speculated that Hyundai will likely place a newly-developed 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine under the hood of Elantra SE. The 175-hp unit has been rumored to be available in Hyundai’s upcoming compact cars, such as Elantra and new Veloster based two-door coupe.

The wraps are ready to come off the new Elantra shortly as the Korean largest carmaker plans to unveil the newcomer in the second-half of 2010. [Photosource: bobaedream]

Hyundai Elantra MD spy shots gallery: