We’ve known about a sporty coupe version of the award-winning Hyundai Elantra for a while now, with even some spy shots of the car appearing last November.

Hyundai has now taken the wraps off its two-door Elantra, with the car making its official world debut this week at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show as the 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe.

When it goes on sale this spring, the new Elantra Coupe will offer buyers sporty styling, gas mileage as high as 40 mpg, and the option of a six-speed automatic transmission.

Some other features that’s sure to entice buyers are an available 7-inch touch-screen navigation system and backup camera, Bluetooth, iPod, and USB connectivity, keyless entry and engine starting, and a punchy 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine.

That engine is rated 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque and is estimated to deliver fuel economy of 29/40 mpg city/highway when matched with the standard six-speed manual, or 28/39 mpg with the six-speed automatic fitted. Note, these ratings give Elantra Coupe a highway-only driving range of up to 500 miles.

The Elantra Coupe rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase, and has overall measurements of 178.7 inches for length, 69.9 inches for width, and a height of 56.5 inches. This provides it with a reasonable 110.2 cubic feet of interior space plus trunk volume of 14.8 cubic feet, however, we couldn't imagine many adults that would find it comfortable in the rear seats.

Safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control, and electronic brake-force distribution.

It’s safe to say that many of the qualities that enabled the Elantra Coupe’s four-door cousin to be voted the 2012 North American Car of the Year have transferred over. And finally, if a coupe isn’t your thing, and neither is a sedan, then you’re in luck as Hyundai has also launched a new Elantra GT hatchback.

For more news from the Chicago Auto Show be sure to check out our dedicated show page right here, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe