1996-1998 Wagon
Launched in 1995, the second generation (codename J2) was offered as a sedan and station wagon. It was sold in the Korean market as the Avante in sedan form and Avante Touring in station wagon bodystyle.
At launch, a 1.5-litre Alpha DOHC (107 hp) and 1.8-litre Beta DOHC (128 hp) gasoline engine were available on the domestic market. Later, a 1.5-litre lean-burn (98 hp) gasoline engine based on Alpha DOHC engine was added. A mid-life facelift arrived for 1999. The Philippine version, as well as in some European markets, had the 1.6 (1599 cc) Beta, which produced 116 hp (87 kW) .
In Australia, the station wagon was called the Lantra Sportswagon and was a popular model of Hyundai.
A 2 litre engine option became available near the end of its production run. In Australia the GLS model was an upgrade on the GL model, and supplies 2 litre engine, velour trim, softer cloth seats, and Hyundai's version of mag wheels. Also the GLS had matching paint on rear number plate light holder and side mirrors.