Hyundai has slipped the first image of its next-generation Elantra and confirmed that the global debut of the new compact sedan will be taking place soon. A local debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show in November is likely.

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The car will go on sale in the United States sometime next year, as a 2017 model, bringing with it styling that resembles the lines of the upmarket Genesis sedan. Noticeably, a large hexagonal grille is paired with slim and sporty headlights, while clean and refined surfaces add a touch of elegance.

“The all-new Elantra captures the car’s unique design characteristics that really place this model in a class of its own,” Hyundai design chief Peter Schreyer said in a statement. “The subtle and innovative appearance enhancements reflect Hyundai’s vision for design.”

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There will also be some significant mechanical updates. While the current model is available with naturally aspirated engines only, we suspect the new model will offer the same options as the latest Tucson, meaning the choice of two new four-cylinder engines: a 164-horsepower 2.0-liter unit, or more advanced 174-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter mill.

Gas mileage should better the current model’s best figures of 28/38 mpg city/highway and 32 mpg combined, achieved when equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission.

Hyundai says the global debut for the new Elantra is “just around the corner.” We’ll bring you an update as soon as we know more.

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