Hyundai Avante, Now 2.0 Engine as Standard… Body Size on Par with Sonata
Hyundai Motor Company unveiled its new compact sedan, ‘The all new AVANTE,’ at a press conference for the ‘2026 Busan Mobility Show’ held on Friday, the 26th, at BEXCO (located in Haeundae-gu, Busan).
The all new AVANTE is the 8th-generation complete change model of the AVANTE, often called the ‘national car.’ Following the brand’s flagship sedan, The New GRANDEUR, it is equipped with the next-generation infotainment system ‘Pleos Connect’ and the generative AI agent ‘Gleo AI.’
At this mobility show, Hyundai is showcasing the evolution of the sedan closely integrated into customers’ daily lives, led by The all new AVANTE, and presenting a new mobility life vision aligned with the transition to Software-Defined Vehicles (SDV) based on Pleos Connect and Gleo AI.
Hyundai has prepared an exhibition space of 2,040㎡ (approximately 617 pyeong) featuring Pleos Connect experience content centered around displays of The all new AVANTE and The New GRANDEUR. It is also operating a variety of exhibitions and experience programs linked to its electrification lineup, including ▲IONIQ 5 ▲The New IONIQ 6 ▲IONIQ 9 ▲KONA Electric ▲The New STARIA Limousine Electric ▲The all new NEXO, conveying Hyundai’s present and future mobility vision to visitors.
First Public Unveiling of ‘The all new AVANTE’ Design and Product Features
The all new AVANTE, reborn as the 8th generation six years after the launch of the 7th-generation model in 2020, achieves evolution beyond its class in design, space, driving performance, safety and convenience features, and overall digital experience, symbolically demonstrating Hyundai’s future mobility direction.
□ Sporty Design Based on ‘Art of Steel’ and Interior Rivaling Midsize Cars
The exterior of The all new AVANTE embodies the harmony of precise lines and robust surfaces based on Hyundai’s design language, ‘Art of Steel.’ It features emphasized fender volume, giving it a confident yet sporty image and a stable stance.
The front features ‘H-edge lighting Daytime Running Lights’ shaped like an ‘H’ with sleek slim LEDs positioned at both ends, making the vehicle appear wider and lower, while the futuristic grille design adds a dynamic touch.
The side profile, based on a classic 3-box structure separating the engine, cabin, and trunk, achieves a refined silhouette and the inherent proportions of a sedan. Notably, the robust fenders harmonize with the long-extended hood to create a striking presence.
Additionally, the slim-neck outside mirrors[2], flush-type door handles, and bold side skirt design add a clean, futuristic impression, while the 18-inch wheels, with their robust 5-spoke form and geometric pattern graphics, further enhance the sporty feel. [2: Slim-neck outside mirror: Minimizes the thickness of the connection between the body and the outside mirror to achieve a sophisticated design, contributing to reduced wind noise and improved aerodynamics]
The rear emphasizes a wide and low stance with tail lamps featuring the ‘H-edge lighting’ shape that harmonizes with the front. The vertical auxiliary brake light, trunk lid reminiscent of a sleek spoiler, and bumper design highlighted by an aerodynamic diffuser complete a refined and sporty image.
The all new AVANTE has dimensions of 4,765mm in length, 1,855mm in width, 1,425mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,750mm. Notably, the overall length and wheelbase have increased by 55mm and 30mm respectively compared to the previous model, and the width has increased by 30mm, securing interior space close to that of a midsize class.
Hyundai applied a symmetrical layout to the interior of The all new AVANTE, where the door armrests and center console seem to envelop the driver, inheriting the sporty DNA of the previous model. At the same time, designs inspired by furniture aesthetics, applied to the passenger-side crash pad and door armrests, create a cozy and comfortable space.
A large center display is positioned in the center of the crash pad, allowing intuitive access to various information and easy operation, while also adding a futuristic atmosphere.
Furthermore, a slim display providing key vehicle information such as speed, gear position, and route is placed in the driver’s natural line of sight, reducing distraction while driving.
Hyundai introduces six new exterior colors for The all new AVANTE, including ▲Kodiak Blue Matte ▲Raptor Gray Matte ▲Graphite Green Pearl, and three new interior colors: ▲Cognac ▲Ivory Rose ▲Chalk Beige.
□ Gasoline 2.0 and 1.6 Hybrid Powertrains … Driving Performance Balancing Power and Efficiency
Hyundai equips The all new AVANTE with two powertrain options: a 2.0 gasoline and a 1.6 hybrid.
The 2.0 gasoline model produces a maximum output of 149 PS, a 26 PS improvement over the previous 1.6 gasoline model, providing lively and effortless driving performance while also securing efficiency through its combination with the IVT transmission.
The hybrid model features the Smartstream 1.6 hybrid engine and, through optimized transmission structure, improved drive motor (P2) output, and enhanced battery capacity, achieves a higher combined system maximum output of 157 PS compared to the previous model, while also improving efficiency.
Additionally, the hybrid model is equipped with ‘Smart Regenerative Braking 3.0,’ which adjusts regenerative braking based on forward traffic flow and navigation information, supporting automatic deceleration and even complete stops to reduce brake pedal operation frequency. It also features a ‘Hybrid Hierarchical Predictive Control System’ that predicts and analyzes the route and road conditions to the destination to optimally control battery charging, enhancing real-world fuel economy and enabling natural, efficient driving.
Furthermore, a ‘Stay Mode’ allows occupants to use features like climate control and infotainment for a certain period while stationary, similar to an electric vehicle without the engine running, offering an electrified experience not possible in traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
□ Class-Above Safety and Convenience Features with Pleos Connect Application
Hyundai has secured top-class average tensile strength and ultra-high-strength steel application ratio for The all new AVANTE’s body and strengthened safety by applying new safety and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that surpass the compact class.
Notably, it is the first Hyundai model to feature ‘Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control 2 (NSCC 2)’ and ‘SBW (Shift-by-Wire) P-gear Emergency Braking.’
Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control 2 supports automatic deceleration not only on highways and motorways but also on general roads in specific sections such as speed zones, speed bumps, and intersections, returning to the preset speed after passing these sections.
SBW P-gear Emergency Braking allows the driver to limit acceleration and decelerate or stop the vehicle in emergency situations simply by pressing the ‘P button’ on the electronic shift lever.
Hyundai has also applied ‘Pedal Misoperation Safety Assist (PMSA),’ which limits driving force and performs braking when the accelerator pedal is mistakenly pressed hard instead of the brake during stops or low-speed driving, meticulously protecting occupants even in unexpected situations.
Additionally, it is equipped with ▲10 airbags ▲Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 (FCA 2) ▲Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) ▲Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) ▲Safe Exit Warning (SEW) ▲Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) ▲Driver Attention Warning (DAW) ▲Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) ▲High Beam Assist (HBA) ▲Lane Following Assist 2 (LFA 2) ▲Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) ▲Hands-On Detection (HOD) to enhance driving safety and convenience.
Furthermore, The all new AVANTE features ‘Memory Reversing Assist (MRA),’ which remembers the vehicle’s driving trajectory and automatically controls steering during reversing, and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA). It also includes ▲Front/Side/Rear Parking Distance Warning (PDW-F/S/R) ▲Front/Rear Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA-F/R) ▲Surround View Monitor (SVM) ▲Rear View Monitor (RVM) ▲Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), providing a convenient experience even in narrow alley driving and parking situations.
Hyundai has equipped The all new AVANTE with Pleos Connect, a next-generation infotainment system based on the Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS), presenting a new digital user experience and accelerating the paradigm shift toward software-defined vehicles.
At the center of The all new AVANTE’s interior, a 16:9 ratio 14.6-inch or 12.9-inch display is placed alongside physical buttons, offering an open feel and intuitive user interface (UI).
Occupants can easily view and operate various functions such as navigation, media, and vehicle settings on the high-resolution large screen at a glance, and can simultaneously check multiple pieces of information through screen splitting while driving, enhancing convenience and immersion.
Pleos Connect delivers a personalized mobility experience through ‘Gleo AI,’ a next-generation generative AI agent based on a Large Language Model (LLM), and the ‘Pleos App Market,’ where various apps can be downloaded.
Gleo AI understands natural continuous conversation, going beyond simple vehicle control to support knowledge search, travel itinerary recommendations, and even emotional conversations, acting as an intelligent assistant that proactively provides situation-appropriate information to the driver.
The Pleos App Market is a platform that aggregates external service apps desired by customers, such as video and music streaming and games, in addition to functions provided by the manufacturer at the time of purchase, serving as the foundation for experiencing services and content within the vehicle.
Additionally, Hyundai has applied convenience features to The all new AVANTE, including ▲Audio by Bang & Olufsen premium sound ▲Built-in Cam 2 Plus ▲Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates ▲Hyundai Digital Key 2 ▲Walk-Away Lock (WAL) ▲Dual smartphone wireless charging ▲100W ultra-fast charging USB ports in the 1st and 2nd rows.
□ Contracts Expected to Begin in Q3 … Event Offering Priority Access to New Car Information and Test Drives
Hyundai plans to reveal The all new AVANTE’s trim and specification details, certified fuel economy, and sales price, and begin taking contracts during the third quarter.
Meanwhile, for customers awaiting the launch of The all new AVANTE, Hyundai is running an ‘Early Pass’ pre-registration event on its official website until Sunday, August 2nd.
Customers participating in the event will receive priority access to detailed product information about The all new AVANTE, official launch schedule, and exhibition and test drive vehicle information. Notifications for priority test drive openings will also be sent to allow participation in test drive reservations.
Additionally, among customers who registered for Early Pass and take delivery of The all new AVANTE, a draw will provide benefits including ▲KRW 1 million support for first-time Hyundai car buyers (5 winners) ▲KRW 100,000 contract deposit support (100 winners). (※ Applicable to individual/individual business customers who take delivery of the vehicle by December 31st)
Presenting Future Mobility Vision with Pleos Connect Experience Zone and Electrified Lineup Exhibition
At the Hyundai Motor exhibition hall at this Busan Mobility Show, Hyundai is operating experience content where visitors can feel the key strengths of Pleos Connect and displaying its electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicle lineup through friendly programs, effectively conveying Hyundai’s unique EV ecosystem to visitors.
Hyundai has set up a ‘Pleos Connect World,’ featuring vehicles equipped with Pleos Connect such as The all new AVANTE and The New GRANDEUR alongside various experience programs, allowing visitors to leisurely and comprehensively experience the new interface both inside and outside the vehicles.
Among these, the ‘Connected Experience Bar,’ which conveys the daily life connected by The all new AVANTE and The New GRANDEUR, allows visitors to experience the key features and usability of Pleos Connect both in the actual vehicles and outside the vehicles.
Additionally, the ‘Pleos Connect App Builder’ operates a participatory program where visitors can experience the potential of the open in-car app ecosystem.
Furthermore, Hyundai’s ‘AVANTE Connected’ docent tour introduces, through storytelling, the future daily life that Pleos Connect and The all new AVANTE will expand together, helping customers understand the new car’s product features.
Hyundai is also conveying the experiences customers will enjoy in the electrification era in a friendly manner through its electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicle lineup exhibition collaborated with Pokémon and EV-related programs.
First, the ‘Hyundai EV World,’ which introduces Hyundai’s differentiated EV ecosystem tailored to the customer’s mobility lifecycle, and the fairy-tale-inspired kids class ‘NEXO x Useful Circulation Lab,’ designed to make hydrogen technology fun and easy to understand, enhance visitor engagement.
Additionally, to commemorate the launch of new Pokémon display themes (Squirtle Floating on the Sea, Eevee Starlit Walk) and collaboration merchandise, a special event is being held where visitors can participate in a ‘Digital Stamp Mission’ while enjoying the Hyundai exhibition hall to receive prizes such as Pokémon collaboration goods and BLUE MEMBERS points.
Hyundai is also operating the ‘Hyundai Store,’ showcasing brand lifestyle goods, where 9 types of Pokémon collaboration merchandise, including pin badges, tumblers and tumbler bags, and plush keyrings, are being unveiled for the first time at the mobility show. Among these, the Ditto reversible neck cushion and back cushion are being exclusively pre-sold on-site, providing an immersive brand experience.
During this mobility show, Hyundai is operating test drive programs for The New GRANDEUR and IONIQ 9, and customers wishing to test drive can pre-register on the official website.
