You have to admit that the Hyundai Elantra facelift is surprisingly proper with a generous change to the exterior. The front portion seems better balanced with the overall design, perhaps enhanced by the 70mm addition in overall length. Triangular shapes and sharp angles are a key element, from the headlights, taillights and even the fog lights.

The Elantra Executive, which the sole variant offered – is priced at RM109,888. Yes, the previous Turbo engine is no longer available which is a bit of a shame.

But the spec list is respectable enough: six airbags, hill-start assist, vehicle stability management (VSM), LED daytime running lights, leather upholstery, 17-inch alloys, and a 7-inch touchscreen. The latter is where you can see integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system) is also standard.

Powering the Elantra is the 2.0-litre engine used before making 152ps and 192Nm, all going to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic.

The company claims improvements in ride and handling on top of driving performance coming from a stiffer torsional rigidity. NVH is better too, apparently, an effect from the welding areas which are reinforced with use of adhesives.