2018 Hyundai Model Changes
All the changes to all Hyundai vehicles for 2018 model year. Stay tuned and bookmark this article, as we will be updating it periodically with new information.
Accent
Picture courtesy Hyundai USA.
The Accent is all-new for 2018 and loses its hatchback variant. Only available as a sedan for 2018, the new Accent will be built out of 54.5% high-strength steel, making it much stronger and possibly lighter than the car it replaces. The engine and transmissions carry over: 1.6-liter direct gas injection 4-cylinder and 6-speed manual or automatic.
A rear backup camera, not offered on the old Accent is now standard. Other new technical features include available Blue Link with remote starting, a hands-free trunk (wait by the trunk with the key in your pocket and it opens without touching it or the key), and more importantly: collision warning and autonomous emergency braking will be offered.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will now be available as well as heated front seats.
Azera
Discontinued.
Elantra GT
All-new for 2018, it come with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine or a 1.6-liter turbo. They both have a standard 6-speed manual, the 2.0 offers an optional 6-speed automatic and the 1.6 turbo offers an optional 7-speed dual-clutch automated gearbox.
Elantra Sedan
This model was all-new for 2017: for 2018 it gets an intermediate SEL trim, planted between SE and Limited models. It also gets a new Sport model with a 201 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder.
Kona
With the 2018 Kona, Hyundai breaks into the fast-growing subcompact crossover field. Populated with Chevrolet Trax, Buick Encore, Honda HR-V, Toyota C-HR, Mazda CX-3 and others, it is becoming very popular.
Santa Fe
Non-Ultimate Limited trim eliminated, leaving: SE, SE Ultimate, and Limited Ultimate. Wiper De-icers are no longer standard: they're optional on all-wheel-drive models, only.
Dual zone automatic climate control is now standard.
Santa Fe Sport
Automatic headlights now standard.
Heated mirrors and satellite radio are now optional; they were standard.
Sonata
A styling refresh and an underlying engineering refresh for 2018 leaves the Sonata looking new and driving better. Stiffer, safer chassis and steering tweaks are hidden under the skin which sports all new sheet metal (except the roof) and new grille and taillights.
The engines stay the same: 2.4 4-cylinder with 185 horsepower; 1.6-liter turbocharged 4 cylinder and 178 horsepower and 2.0-liter turbocharged 245-horsepower 4-cylinder. The 2.0T engine changes from a six-speed automatic to an eight-speed.
Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are now standard on all models.
Heated rear seats are no longer offered. Dual zone automatic air-conditioning is only available on Limited where it is standard. Satellite radio and Blue Link Connected Care (telematics that call for help when airbags deploy) are no longer offered on SE and Eco.
Tucson
SEL trim fits between SE and Eco, includes previous Popular Equipment Package equipment.
Tucson Limited AWD now has a heated steering wheel.
Tucson Fuel Cell is retired: replaced with Ioniq Hybrid, plug-in Hybrid and Electric.
Veloster
Taking the year off due to slow sales and a long 2017 model year.