New Model Avante Test Drive
This design has turned out really great, hasn’t it?
The Avante is shouting, “Forget about the old model!”
#Awakening
The new Avante features aggressive lines that make it look like a compact sedan from a supercar brand, almost like Lamborghini. The unique side character line, which reflects light in various ways, and the parametric jewel-pattern grille that glistens like a gemstone showcase Hyundai's new design identity, #Sensuous Sportiness and offer a glimpse into the future.
The tail design, which embodies Hyundai's H logo, adds to this striking transformation.
This is truly a bold change.
Personally, I think the new Avante's tail design is a hundred times better than that of the new Sonata, which resembled a coat hanger.
Speaking of design comparisons, I parked the new Avante next to the Kia K5, which has received high praise for its design lately. Although the Avante should ideally be compared to the K3, it held its own even next to the higher-end K5!
#Kudos
Even the wheel spoke design leaves no room for criticism. Just by looking at the new Avante, you can tell how much thought Hyundai put into its revival.
But here’s the thing!
Last time at the new car presentation, I briefly mentioned my test drive experience, and I have to say, the powertrain applied to this stunning new Avante was incredibly disappointing.
It barely accelerates... The RPM increases slowly, and the fuel efficiency isn’t groundbreaking either.
It feels reminiscent of last year’s Sonata launch. With a stunning design that rivals high-performance sports cars, the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated Smartstream engine and IVT continuously variable transmission seem to deliver performance that barely meets a minor change level.
* Maximum output: 123 horsepower at 6,300 RPM
* Maximum torque: 15.7 kg.m at 4,500 RPM
Sport mode doesn’t make much of a difference.
It only makes the engine sound a bit louder...
The actual output feels like it’s under 100 horsepower, and the initial acceleration is sluggish. If anyone thinks this is sufficient for a compact sedan like the Avante, they probably said the same about the frustrating 2.0-liter Smartstream engine during the new Sonata launch.
Of course, that doesn’t mean they’re wrong, nor do I claim to be right... People have different criteria when choosing a car. The smart, advanced convenience features in the new Avante, such as the car pay function through a smartphone app, digital key, and Bluetooth multi-connection, can also be a deciding factor.
Operating the latest IT gadgets can be a fun reason to choose the Avante.
Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane departure warning features are now common, even in smaller models than the Avante, so they no longer seem impressive.
Most of these advanced convenience features also appeared in the new Sonata.
But what was the outcome?
Everyone knows...
The Sonata taxis that were supposed to be rare are everywhere.
In a private conversation, Lee Sang-yeop, the head of Hyundai's design center, acknowledged this aspect, saying the Sonata should have launched with the 1.6 turbo model instead of the 2.0 gasoline model. I’m not sure if there are still old-school folks who believe mid-size cars should primarily be 2,000cc!
As I prepared this test drive for the new Avante, I couldn’t help but feel concerned about the powertrain... I worry that it might repeat the failures of the last Sonata.
While it wasn’t as frustrating as the Sonata, it still left me wanting more...
The test drive started off on a rocky note! Haha
The piggy bank symbol next to the instrument cluster—what is that doing there?
This is like trying to look fashionable while wearing cheap fabric that you bought online at the lowest price, just to be called a fashionista. You don't have to wear expensive designer clothes to be stylish.
These days, new cars often use cheaper woven materials for trims or even different patterns for polyurethane materials to create a stylish look, but the new Avante only updates its design while using outdated materials.
The difference between riding in a basic option taxi and a well-maintained fully-loaded personal vehicle is quite significant.
In conclusion, I have many regrets about this test drive of the Avante.
It’s such a beautifully designed car...
But what a frustrating powertrain!
As the design and convenience options improve, the powertrain should improve as well.
Above all, I’m most excited about the hybrid model combined with the electric motor. With an average fuel efficiency exceeding 20 km/L (approximately 47 mpg) and torque nearly double, I expect the electric motor's unique brisk acceleration will satisfy the output thirst of this Avante. I hope it comes out soon.
