Next-generation Hyundai Elantra Touring to be based on 2011 Elantra

Hyundai plans to introduce next-generation Elantra Touring in the States. The model will be based on Elantra 2011!

Next-generation Hyundai Elantra Touring, which is rumored to go on sale in the States in 2012, will be based on the 2011 Elantra sedan, which is going to make its official U.S. premiere next week at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

During Hyundai’s product briefing on the all-new Elantra sedan last week, Hyundai Motor America’s President and CEO, John Krafcik, confirmed production of the next-generation Elantra Touring. According to Krafcik, the 2012 Elantra Touring will be build upon the same platform as the up-coming 2011 Elantra sedan. It will also use the same state-of-the-art powertrain technology, including the all-new 1.8L Nu engine and six-speed automatic gearbox.

John Krafcik also revealed that the next-generation Elantra Touring is going to share the vast majority of its styling elements with that of the sedan. The Touring model will continue Hyundai’s “fluidic sculpture” design philosophy and will boast even more elegant lines than its predecessor.

The 2012 Hyundai Elantra is not expected to reach the showroom floor before the end of 2011. More likely the model will debut alongside new Hyundai i30 hatchback, which is expected to debut at one of the auto shows in Europe sometime in 2012. More details about the next-generation Elantra Touring will probably emerge during the official unveiling of the 2011 Elantra sedan next week.