2017 Hyundai Elantra GT: Mods & Upgrades Guide

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey car enthusiasts! Ever looked at your 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT and thought, "This is great, but it could be even better"? You're not alone! The Elantra GT, with its sporty handling and practical hatchback design, is a fantastic platform for modifications. Whether you're aiming for a head-turning aesthetic, a boost in performance, or simply a more comfortable driving experience, there's a world of possibilities out there. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the best mods and upgrades available for your 2017 Elantra GT, helping you transform your ride into a personalized masterpiece. From simple bolt-ons to more involved projects, we'll cover everything you need to know to get started. So, grab your wrench (metaphorically, at least for now), and let's get modifying!

Enhancing the Exterior: Making Your Elantra GT Stand Out

First impressions matter, right? And when it comes to your car, the exterior is what everyone sees first. Modifying your 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT's exterior is a fantastic way to express your personality and give it a unique look. Let's explore some popular options, shall we?

Body Kits and Aerodynamics

Body kits are a classic way to dramatically change the appearance of your car. They can include front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and sometimes even a spoiler. For the Elantra GT, you'll find a range of options, from subtle enhancements to more aggressive, sporty designs. Consider the following:

  • Material: Body kits are typically made from polyurethane (flexible and durable), fiberglass (affordable but can crack), or carbon fiber (lightweight and expensive). Choose based on your budget and desired look.
  • Style: Do you want a subtle upgrade or something that screams "look at me"? Research different styles to find one that matches your taste. Some kits offer a more OEM+ look, blending seamlessly with the original design. Others, such as those that feature aggressive front splitters, side skirts, and rear diffusers, can transform your Elantra GT into a real head-turner.
  • Installation: Installation can range from DIY-friendly to requiring professional help. Be sure to factor in installation costs when budgeting.

Beyond body kits, aerodynamic upgrades can also improve the car's handling. A front lip spoiler or a rear wing can increase downforce, improving stability at higher speeds. However, these often have a significant effect on the vehicle's appearance.

Wheels and Tires

One of the most impactful visual upgrades you can make is a new set of wheels. Upgrading to aftermarket wheels can completely change the car's stance and overall aesthetic. Here's what to think about:

  • Size: Consider the wheel diameter, width, and offset. Research what fits your Elantra GT without rubbing against the fenders or suspension components. Larger wheels can fill the wheel wells for a sportier look, but can also negatively affect ride quality and fuel economy.
  • Style: Choose a style that complements your car's color and overall design. Popular choices include: alloy wheels, multi-spoke wheels, and mesh wheels. Black wheels, in particular, are a popular choice.
  • Tires: Pair your new wheels with high-quality tires. Consider the tire size, speed rating, and tread pattern. Performance tires will provide better grip, while all-season tires offer a balance of performance and practicality.

Changing the wheels may have a significant effect on the vehicle's performance and appearance, so you may want to change more than one aspect of your car.

Lighting Upgrades

Upgrading your headlights, taillights, and other lighting components is a great way to modernize the look of your Elantra GT and improve visibility. Here's what's available:

  • Headlights: Replace your halogen headlights with LED or HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlights for brighter, whiter light. You can also find headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights (DRLs) for a more modern appearance.
  • Taillights: Aftermarket taillights can add a unique touch to your car's rear end. Options include LED taillights with different lens colors and designs.
  • Other Lighting: Consider upgrading your fog lights, side markers, and interior lights to LEDs for a complete lighting overhaul.

The exterior of your 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT can be customized in a variety of ways to suit your taste. These include the addition of window tint, decals, or a fresh coat of paint.

Boosting Performance: Unleashing the Inner Beast

Alright, let's talk about making your Elantra GT move. While the Elantra GT isn't a dedicated sports car, there are several modifications that can significantly improve its performance and driving dynamics. Here are some of the most popular options.

Engine and Exhaust Upgrades

Getting more power from the engine is the holy grail for many enthusiasts. Here's what you can do:

  • Cold Air Intake (CAI): A CAI can improve airflow to the engine, potentially increasing horsepower and torque. It typically replaces the factory airbox with a less restrictive intake system.
  • Cat-Back Exhaust: A cat-back exhaust system replaces the exhaust components from the catalytic converter back. This can improve exhaust flow, resulting in a modest power gain and a more aggressive exhaust note.
  • ECU Tuning/Remapping: An ECU (Engine Control Unit) tune can optimize the engine's performance by adjusting parameters like fuel delivery, ignition timing, and boost pressure (if applicable). This is often done in conjunction with other performance upgrades.

Important Considerations: When considering engine modifications, it's crucial to research the specific components for your Elantra GT's engine. Some modifications may require professional installation, and always ensure that any modifications comply with local emissions regulations.

Suspension Upgrades

Improving the suspension can significantly enhance the car's handling and overall driving experience. Here's what to consider:

  • Lowering Springs: Lowering springs reduce the car's ride height, lowering the center of gravity and improving handling. They also give the car a more aggressive stance.
  • Coilovers: Coilovers are a more advanced suspension upgrade that allows for adjustable ride height and damping. This provides greater control over the car's handling characteristics.
  • Sway Bars: Upgrading the sway bars (also known as anti-roll bars) can reduce body roll during cornering, further enhancing handling.

Upgrading the suspension typically requires some mechanical skill or professional assistance. The goal of suspension upgrades is to improve handling and reduce body roll.

Braking System Upgrades

Going faster is great, but being able to stop faster is even more important! Here's how to upgrade your braking system:

  • Performance Brake Pads: Upgrading to high-performance brake pads can improve stopping power and fade resistance.
  • Brake Rotors: Slotted or drilled brake rotors can improve braking performance by dissipating heat more effectively.
  • Brake Lines: Upgrading to stainless steel braided brake lines can improve brake feel and responsiveness.

Remember, brake upgrades are a crucial safety feature, so proper installation and maintenance are essential.

Interior Enhancements: Making the Cabin Your Own

Don't forget about the inside! The interior is where you spend most of your time, so making it comfortable and stylish can greatly enhance your driving experience. Here are some ideas.

Seat Upgrades and Comfort

Consider these modifications:

  • Seat Covers: Seat covers can protect your seats and give the interior a fresh look. You can choose from a variety of materials and styles.
  • Aftermarket Seats: For serious performance upgrades, consider upgrading to racing-style seats or more supportive sport seats.
  • Lumbar Support: Add lumbar support to reduce fatigue on long drives.

Upgrading your seats is a matter of both comfort and style.

Infotainment and Technology Upgrades

Here are some tech upgrades:

  • Head Unit Replacement: Upgrade your factory head unit with an aftermarket unit that offers features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and improved sound quality.
  • Speaker Upgrades: Replace your factory speakers with higher-quality speakers for improved sound.
  • Subwoofer and Amplifier: Add a subwoofer and amplifier for a more powerful and immersive audio experience.

The infotainment system and speakers are what most people spend time with when driving.

Interior Styling and Accessories

Here's how to style the interior:

  • Shift Knobs and Steering Wheels: Replacing the shift knob and steering wheel can add a touch of personality to the interior.
  • Dash Trim and Accents: Add carbon fiber, aluminum, or other materials to the dashboard and trim for a more premium look.
  • Floor Mats: Upgrade to custom floor mats to protect your car's interior and add a stylish touch.

Customizing the interior allows you to change the appearance of your car in a variety of ways.

Important Considerations Before You Start Modifying

Before you dive headfirst into modifying your 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Let's make sure you're well-prepared.

Budgeting for Modifications

Modifications can range from inexpensive to quite pricey. Here's how to budget:

  • Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend.
  • Research Prices: Research the costs of the parts and labor involved in each modification.
  • Prioritize: Decide which modifications are most important to you and prioritize accordingly.

Setting a budget will help you avoid overspending.

Research and Planning

  • Compatibility: Ensure that any parts you purchase are compatible with your specific year and model of Elantra GT.
  • Read Reviews: Read reviews from other owners to get insights on the quality and performance of different products.
  • Installation: Decide whether you'll be doing the installation yourself or hiring a professional. Consider the complexity of the installation and any special tools that might be required.

Planning is crucial to ensure that the modifications go smoothly.

Safety and Legal Considerations

  • Safety First: Prioritize safety when making any modifications. Ensure that any modifications do not compromise the safety of the vehicle or its occupants.
  • Local Laws: Be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding vehicle modifications. Some modifications, such as window tinting or exhaust systems, may be restricted in certain areas.
  • Emissions Compliance: Ensure that any modifications comply with local emissions regulations.

Always ensure that your vehicle remains road-legal and safe.

Conclusion: Your Elantra GT, Your Vision

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to modifying your 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT. Remember, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or just getting started, modifying your car can be a rewarding experience. Take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process of creating a car that reflects your unique style and driving preferences. Go out there, make your Elantra GT your own, and hit the road in style!