Early Look at the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring

We first heard news that Hyundai would produce a hatchback version of its Elantra compact sedan back in April. Today, official word has come from Hyundai headquarters that there will indeed be a model called the Elantra Touring. It will debut for the 2009 model year, going on sale in the spring of 2008. The official unveiling will be at the L.A. Auto Show in November, but for now we have the sketch above.

Hyundai says the Elantra Touring will have the same four-cylinder engine found in the sedan, as well as improved handling and a sport suspension. It will also be the first hatchback with standard electronic stability control, and the company says it will have more interior room than the competition, including the Mazda3 and Dodge Caliber.

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