Overview & Reviews

Introduced in the early 1990s, the Hyundai Elantra didn't exactly get off to a good start, earning a well-deserved reputation for overall shoddiness and unreliability. But more than two decades later, the Elantra has become one of America's most popular small sedans. Take one for a spin and you'll likely be impressed with its smooth ride, roomy interior, high fuel economy and solid build quality. The Elantra also offers plenty of features for the money and long warranty coverage. While those long-ago Elantras are best forgotten, any new or used Elantra (that you'll realistically come across) is an excellent choice for a small car shopper.

Current Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra sedan is offered three trims: SE, Limited and Sport. A coupe and Elantra GT four-door hatchback are also available and reviewed separately.

Standard SE feature highlights include alloy wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and USB/iPod interface. An option package provides 16-inch (versus 15-inch) wheels, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, voice controls, a rearview camera and heated front seats. The Limited comes with all that as well as 17-inch wheels, leather upholstery, a power driver seat, heated rear seats and Blue Link telematics. The Sport includes the Limited's features minus the heated rear seats and Blue Link and adds a more powerful engine, a sunroof, a sport-tuned suspension and keyless ignition and entry. The Limited can be had with a larger 7-inch touchscreen display, dual-zone automatic climate control and a navigation system.

The SE and Limited trims are powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 145 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the SE, while a six-speed automatic is optional. The Limited comes only with the automatic. The Elantra Sport has a 2.0-liter four that makes 173 hp. With the Sport, the manual transmission is standard, while the automatic is optional.

Slide inside the Elantra and you'll find a cabin that matches or betters most others in it class. A stylized center stack and controls lend some flair to the cabin, and the materials, while not best-in-class, offer a rich look. Ample headroom and a smaller-diameter steering wheel contribute to the interior's spaciousness.

On the road, the 1.8-liter engine has decent punch and the automatic transmission provides smooth, well-timed shifts. This volume-selling powertrain should be fine for the majority of drivers. The added punch provided by the Sport's bigger engine should be appreciated by those willing to sacrifice a few mpg in favor of some added oomph. A compliant ride and a quiet cabin make the Elantra a comfortable choice for daily driver and road trip duty alike. The only significant downside to this Elantra is a lack of rear headroom compared to what's available from some other top small sedans.

Used Hyundai Elantra Models
The current Hyundai Elantra represents the fifth generation, which was introduced for the 2011 model year. Apart from lacking some slight styling tweaks, upgraded touchscreen displays, added sound insulation and the Sport trim level, these Elantras are otherwise identical to the current version.

 The fourth-generation Elantra ran from 2007-'10. Having established the Elantra as a legitimate contender in the compact segment with its previous-generation car, Hyundai updated the Elantra's styling, improved its handling and ride quality, and revamped the interior to near-premium levels.

Two main trim levels were available: GLS and SE. The GLS came reasonably well equipped, though it lacked stability and traction control. Those came standard on the SE after 2007. The SE also had more features and a sport-tuned suspension. In your used-car search, you might also encounter the top-line Elantra Limited ('07 only) and the Elantra Blue, which was an entry-level model offered for 2010 only.

Fourth-generation Elantras came with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine good for 138 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. The transmission was either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Cars sold in California-emissions states could have cleaner tailpipe emissions (PZEV) but were rated for 132 hp.

Changes were minimal for this car. For 2009, the Elantra received enhanced suspension and steering tuning, along with new interior instrument and radio displays. A USB/iPod audio jack also became available. But in general, we were very impressed by this car and praised its roomy and comfortable interior, agreeable ride quality and value for the dollar.

The third-generation Elantra was produced from model years 2001-'06 and represented a considerable step up from the earlier cars. The sedan was bigger inside and out, and revised sheet metal gave it a more upscale look. Reliability and overall quality were also much improved. The standard features list was generous for the car's price, and included amenities like air-conditioning, full power accessories, side airbags, 15-inch wheels and an AM/FM cassette player. The 2.0-liter engine generated 135 hp (138 after 2003) and was mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.

An Elantra hatchback, the Elantra GT, was also offered starting in 2002 and came with additional standard features, including leather seats and a CD player. Initially, the sedan was available only in base GLS trim, but by 2003, Elantra sedans could be purchased in two trims -- GLS and the top-of-the-line GT. Although it still lacked the refinement of segment leaders like the Honda Civic, the third-generation Hyundai Elantra shone as a solid choice for buyers seeking maximum value for their money.

One would probably do best by avoiding the second-generation Elantra – built from model years 1996-2000 -- though it did at least take a turn for the better from the forgettable original. The car got a welcome boost in power with the addition of a new engine, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder capable of 130 hp and 122 lb-ft of torque. Airbags were added to the safety features list, and a wagon body style was also offered. The Elantra's engine was upgraded yet again in model year 1999, to a larger 2.0-liter. Overall, the second-gen Elantra represented a decent buy in the economy car segment. It wasn't as polished as the offerings from Honda, Nissan or Toyota, but it was well-equipped and fun to drive.

The first-generation Elantra was produced from model years 1992-'95; during this period, Hyundai's hauler was available as a sedan only. Sadly, the car's build quality and reliability reflected its bargain-basement price. Elantras from this era were notorious for being sloppy in most of the areas that matter. They were none too quick either, as all models were motivated by a 1.6-liter inline-4 good for 113 hp and 102 lb-ft of torque.

User Reviews:

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  Just what the wallet ordered - 2005 Hyundai Elantra
  By SlashDaddee - August 31 - 5:40 pm

  Shopped Civic, Corolla, Focus and all others but none could give a total package vehicle. They might be equal or slightly better in one area but none could deliver everything and a great price, except Hyundai. Elantra was the only one that had ABS, traction control, gas mileage, leather, cruise, sunroof, hatchback, 6 speakers, side airbags, automatic, HUGE warranty, and best price ... $14,500 paid. Im getting 30 miles to the gallon (highway driving) and the engine isnt even broken in yet. Im 61" and the car has plenty of room for my legs. The storage space with the hatchback is good. Overall, I got more for my money than I ever expected when I started shopping.

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  Cant say enough good things about car! - 2007 Hyundai Elantra
  By clcotton32 - August 31 - 4:04 pm

  This car is so amazing. I first purchased an 06 Elantra which did not come standard with ABS. After doing some looking to purchase another 06 with ABS, I saw the 07 Elantra and immediately fell in love. It is larger and more comfy. However, I did really like the 06 but the 07 had all the features and the look I wanted. I cant say enough about the car. It is bigger than my previous 94 Sentra and sits higher off the ground. The 138 hp is great. The sound system is wonderful. Road noise is minimal. Some say the interior looks cheap but I dont think so for the price you pay. Great warranty. Once I bought this car I felt at peace with my decision.

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  Best In Its Class - 2007 Hyundai Elantra
  By David - August 31 - 10:01 am

  Traded in may 04 Elantra for the 07. The 04 wasnt bad, but the 07 is much improved. It handles better, especially on turns, and feels tighter. It now has all the features I wish the 04 had such as, keyless trunk opening, auxiliary stereo jack and XM radio. The controls are placed better and operate more intuitively. The 07 is quieter than the 04. I seriously compared all other cars in the same class and the Elantra is clearly the best price to feature selection.

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  Excellent Value Proposition - 2007 Hyundai Elantra
  By emsmister - August 30 - 12:10 pm

  I bought this car to commute to work. I am putting on about 400 miles a week, and I am pleased to be doing so inside an Elantra Limited. I own a 2006 Azera and have developed an affinity for Hyundai products as a result of my experience with both of these cars. While not perfect (what car is?), this car is way more upscale than its price tag. With incentives because Hyundai wanted to sell more PZEV models in CA, loaded (sun and surf package added) this car was under $17.4K. XM, high-end Infinity sound system, and heated leather seats make my commute way more comfortable. This is truly an upscale economy car that anyone who wants to save money yet still ride in style should consider.

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  No Problems! - 2000 Hyundai Elantra
  By mike332 - August 29 - 8:11 am

  This has to be the best, most reliable car I have ever owned. 57,000 trouble free miles, unbelievable I know!

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  Fun to Drive - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  By piep - August 29 - 6:03 am

  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.

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  my elantra - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By nelg - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Was etremely suprised at how comfortable and powerful it is. It is a lot of fun to drive. Loaded with options.

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  2007 GLS Decent Value - 2007 Hyundai Elantra
  By jackny - August 28 - 1:36 am

  Just bought a GLS and it seems good, but Im used to Luxury cars. Was sick of used cars, so bought a new economy car instead. The only thing so far is that there is a plastic engine cover that vibrates while idling, causing annoying flapping noise under hood. Great stereo system though.

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  Not too bad - 2005 Hyundai Elantra
  By Not that bad - August 27 - 3:04 pm

  Bought the car for a daily commuter w/ some road trips in mind as well. Ive been pretty pleased with the car, but it is in the shop right now at 42,000 miles to get the rear brakes replaced. Seems way too early, especially since I have the manual and use my brakes sparingly. Dealer seemed mystified as to why only 1 brake pad was worn badly... Tires were completely bald by about 32,000 miles. Clutch is pretty pathetic too, definately not a sport- machine. Sloppy gearbox sometimes leads to a gear grinding here and there (roomate has the same problem with his Accent). Probably going to be my first and last Hyundai, Id rather pay a little more for better quality.

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  Swinger for seniors - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By papatom - August 24 - 4:24 am

  We bought our 2012 Hyundai Elantra Limited in the spring of 2012, and have driven it 70,000 miles. We are senior citizens (one still working, one retired) -- we say that because neither one of us was looking for a high-performance car with impressive off-the-line acceleration. In fact, we have never driven it out of "Eco" mode. The performance is fine by our standards. Gas mileage on our frequent highway trips is 35 to 40 mpg; this car seems to like tailwinds a lot. Our only warranty issue was that the steering wheel began to peel. The dealer replaced the steering wheel promptly; the problem has not recurred. The dealers service department has been excellent; they often suggest added preventive maintenance, but never push for it. Surprisingly, the dealer offered the best price on tires (offering a wide range of brands). We bought the Limited for the tan leather interior. The Limited came with 17-inch wheels and low-profile tires. I would have preferred 16-inch wheels with higher profile tires (which would offer a wider range of replacement options). Overall, the Elantra is as good a car as weve ever owned.