2008 Hyundai Elantra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.59/5 Average
195 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Last year's top-of-the-line Limited trim level has been dropped, but much of its equipment can still be had via an optional package for the midgrade Elantra SE trim. Stability control and brake assist have also been added as standard equipment to the SE.

Pros:
  • Smooth and secure ride, attractive cabin design, roomy interior with adult-friendly backseat, solid construction, responsive handling, low price, long warranty.
Cons:
  • Unrefined engine is noisy at mid-to-high rpm, likable interior is otherwise let down by a few low-grade interior plastics.

User Reviews:

Showing 121 through 130 of 195.00
  • I like/dont like - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I like this little car because it it a big change from my 77 Chevy Blazer gas mileage wise. I like it because its reliable, small, cute, quiet. I dont like finding out I paid too much, $18,000.00 plus tax after the 2000.00 rebate. When I see the same car for 14,000.00 I dont care for the durability of the seat material, stains easily. The highest gas mileage ive gotten is 27.1 mpg on the freeway at 60 mph. Mine is the Gray colored one, the paint scratches easily, my thumb nail has worn a scrape in the hollow spot of the outer door handle. I will probably trade this in for a Toyota within the next year.

  • Engine Issues - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    The Elantra is a nice car with a great interior and decent performance. I was surprised to find out the engine uses a timing belt whereas the competition from Toyota, Honda, Mazda, gm, ford, chrysler have graduated to timing chains that never require replacement. Worse than that, the engine is a "interference design", meaning that if the timing belt ever breaks, the valves will crash into the pistons and destroy the engine. Interference designed engines were phased out by most manufacturers in the 1990s. A broken belt leading to engine destruction is a gamble that we dont have to take in 2008.

  • Good looks-poor gas mileage - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    Buzzy stereo speakers, horrible gas mileage, tested carefully at only 22 mpg, not the 33 mpg HWY as advertised. Very noisy engine when accelerating at 2500 RPM or above, excessive road noise over small bumps. Great interior looks & features (love the Blue dash lights). Need rear view auto- dimmer glass.

  • Good for the big guy - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I am 66", 350 pounds and have been looking for a small car that I fit in for quite some time. I have found it with the Elantra. I have a 2004 Town Car and a 2007 Tundra which have plenty of room but not that great mileage for an everyday driver. I can actually exit the Elantra easier than I can the Lincoln as it has more head room. The interior is a little narrower and the leg room a little less but I am larger than most and I figure I have to give up something for that 34 mpg. The car is very impressive. The mileage on a trip was 34.5 and in all town driving in the 29 range. The acceleration is good and plenty of power for the MO hills. I would recommend the SE to anyone.

  • Great Car for the money! - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I must admit I wasnt at all excited about getting this car. I had to lower my payments quickly due to some financial changes. I looked at the Mazda 3 & the Honda Civic. I just couldnt get a better price for the features that I got. My car is loaded with everything including leather. Im very impressed with the fuel economy & I already have over 6k miles on my car. Rear seat passengers are always impressed with the leg room that a car this small offers. I am very happy with my decision and recommend this car to anyone in the market for an upscale economy car. it cant be beat for the price.

  • A fine compact highway cruiser - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    The Elantra SE an excellent compact, reasonably roomy, smooth and quiet on the road. And it handles better than one first expects on windy roads. Among its peer group, it is more refined and understated than the others, and more comfortable. And, one can buy a fully "loaded model" for about the same price as very lean models from Japan. The satellite radio sounds very nice and is easy to use. On long trips, its very comfortable, which is unusual among cars in this class. We obtained much better gas mileage (40 ish) on the highway at 65-72 mph than EPA or CR reports, admittedly with a light foot. Its only weaknesses so far are its somewhat numb steering and a rather slow take off.

  • i love it! - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    This car is so nice to drive! Just take one for a test drive and you will fall in love with it. I can make a 360 degree turn effortlessly and accelerate faster than my 2005 v6 sonata! My friends call it "a mini Lexis IS250". I have never felt more comfortable and safe. Truly a best buy, especially for the buck!

  • Excellent car in price class - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    Make no mistake, this is not a 32,000 dollar car, though Quality for cost is superb. Between 16,000 and 18,000 you will not find a better quality means of transportation. The Elantra is fun to drive with a great popular package features. The warranty on the car matches and or beats other motor companies. Surprisingly roomy interior, I am 62 and sit comfortable inside the vehicle. Fuel mileage is at 35 mpg with 65% highway driving. Exterior to interior noise control is that of a 26,000 to 32,000 dollar sedan. Purchasing this vehicle was not on the spur of the moment, Four months of going to one dealer to the next. Finally the right car for our family at the right price.

  • Fun to Drive - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I like the handling of the vehicle, seems it will hug the road. Braking is VERY responsive, afraid to sneeze because it will stop on a dime. Sound system is nice, XM is a plus prefer Sirius. Recommend to anyone. Watch for rebates and incentives. I paid 1500 less than most in my area. Spacious vehicle even with an infant car seat in rear. 27 mpg on mixed country roads, city or highway unknown at this time.

  • What an awesome machine! - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I really like this car. I have a 2005 Elantra and I am amazed at the differences. Both are excellent autos, but I really like the classy feel to my new 2008. She gets great gas mileage, good on the roads, and just overall a very comfortable car.

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