Sure, crossovers are still the hot-ticket body style, but if you’re looking for practicality in a more car-like package, the tried-and-true compact hatchback formula isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Case in point – the hugely updated new Elantra from Hyundai. It’s called the Elantra GT, and it was just introduced for the 2018 model year at the Chicago Auto Show. Essentially an Americanized version of the i30 Euro hatch, the Elantra GT will be offered in two trim levels, including the base model, and the hot-to-trot GT Sport. Both get refined styling cues, tons of cabin space for people and things, and a solid lineup of tech features, while the faster GT Sport throws in bigger wheels, independent rear suspension, and 200 horses under the hood.

Outside, you’ll find a body that’s now longer and wider than before, and it sits closer to the ground. LEDs were used for the daytime running lights, while additional LEDs can be had for the high beams and low beams.

Moving inside, the Elantra GT offers nearly 25 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear bench, while up to five passengers get 96.5 cubic feet of passenger room. There’s a standard 8.0-inch display screen, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. There’s also Amazon Alexa integration for remote start and heating features.

Options include dual-zone climate control, a wireless phone charger, leather upholstery, and alloy pedals. Safety and convenience tech incudes available adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, and lane keep assist.

Under the skin, Hyundai used additional high-strength steel, making the new Elantra GT 22 percent more rigid and 60 pounds lighter. There are two engine options, both four-cylinders, starting with a 2.0-liter producing 162 horsepower, or alternatively, a turbo 1.6-liter making 201 horsepower. It should also handle decently, given Hyundai developed the car’s suspension at the Nurburgring.

The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT will go on sale this summer. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date, but we expect it to slot in under the $20,000 mark.

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Why It Matters

As the vast majority of makes out there rush to stuff even more entries into the bloated crossover segment, it’s nice to see Hyundai break from the pack with this fresh hatch. Hyundai in general has been doing pretty well for itself lately – sales are up, and it’s now doing the whole premium brand thing with the mid-size Genesis luxury sedan.

Now, with the Elantra GT Sport, driving enthusiasts should also have a reason to smile. While the base model Elantra GT mates a 2.0-liter with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, the more interesting option is the Elantra GT Sport, which routes 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque from a turbocharged 1.6-liter through either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Sport model enhances the Elantra’s capability in the bends as well, replacing the base model’s rear torsion beam suspension with an independent multilink set-up. Complementing the new suspension are 18-inch alloy wheels (the base model gets 17-inchers), plus larger front and rear brakes.

Throw in the extra tech stuff in the cabin, and it’s a nice bit of kit, especially if it’s competitively priced. Should the Golf GTI start sweating? Maybe.

Drivetrain Specifications

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