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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  My Second Elantra - 2005 Hyundai Elantra
  By golfergod - December 7 - 8:00 pm

  My first Elantra was a 97 which I bought new in Michigan. I drove it for 8 years and spent less than 600 dollars for repairs during the 8 years. When it came time for a new car to drive around town I chose another Elantra. No one sells a better car for the price. I sold my old car to a neighbor who could not be more pleased (neither could his 16 year old daughter who drives it.) The car is loaded with premium features for a bargain price. It is comfortable, reliable, and economical. What more could you possibly ask from a car which cost under $12,000 including tax and delivery? I could use a CD player instead of the standard tape player but for 200 bucks that was easy to fix.

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  PRETTY DAMN GOOD - 2001 Hyundai Elantra
  By WALTER66 - December 6 - 10:00 am

  I MUST SAY, FOR THE MONEY. THIS VEHICLE HAS TREATED ME QUITE WELL. WITH NO PROBLEMS AT ALL. ITS FUN TO DRIVE AND GREAT ON GAS. I WOULD BUY ANOTHER.

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  2106 Elantra SE Great Choice - 2016 Hyundai Elantra
  By millet george - December 4 - 3:06 pm

  Was going to lease a Sonata but was more impressed with the 2016 Elantra SE. Seats were more comfortable, handling was better, overall like the Elantra better. Have driven for 1 month very happy with our choice, have gotten 38 MPG on the highway also good gas mileage in the city.

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  Love It - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  By Dawn Armstrong - December 3 - 10:13 am

  Just bought this car yesterday after test driving many other cars. IE:Civic Fit, Suzukis, Sebring. Traded my 2005 Tuscon. Needed a car with much better gas mileage. Since I am now driving 58 miles one way to my job. Went with a Hyundai because of there great warranty. I think many people under rate Hyundais. I truely love mine.

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  Value Edition is not a value - 2017 Hyundai Elantra
  By Derek Linville - November 29 - 2:18 pm

  Pros: great gas mileage on one trip was averaging 50 miles to the gallon in Economy Mode. Comfort is really good, electronics is good and easy to use. Cons: Very poor acceleration nomatter the driving mode your in, braking is OK but can be better, 6 speed transmission shifts weird at times.

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  Black, Curvy, and Sporty! - 2016 Hyundai Elantra
  By Stephanie - November 23 - 8:06 am

  I know your initial thought: am I talking about Serena Williams? No, but you can bet it was not hard to name my new 2016 black and beautiful Hyundai Elantra after the worlds best womens tennis player of all time. I bought my car fully loaded from Rick Case Hyundai in Duluth and I could not be more happier! I came in pre-approved so I was pretty much shopping for what I wanted. I sealed the deal in the same day with minor tit-for-tat negotiating and walked away with my new baby! Salesman, Blessing Iyere blessed me with the vehicle of my liking and I could not be more satisfied. Truly grateful!

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  Perfect 1st Car - 2002 Hyundai Elantra
  By Azzuri - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Just bought the GT. My first new car purchase! I have put my first 500 miles on and look forward to many more! There is not a better car out there for the money! Trust me I looked!

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  08 Silver SE - Great Car for the Money - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  By Ralph T. - November 13 - 11:40 am

  I first posted a review, in April. I had the car for one month and liked it. Now after taking three trips and putting on 5100 miles in three months, I can not describe how awesome this car is. On the trips I avg 35 mpg (mostly hwy). Normal everyday mixed driving avg has been 30 mpgs. Driving for long periods have been comfortable and enjoyable. During heavy rain, the stability control worked well. The heated seats warmed up quick, the stereo & XM have great a sound. The Electric Steering make parallel parking easy. One slight thing I noticed is the air conditioning seems a bit weak compared to my previous Elantras (not bad, but did notice a change - may be due to the cabin being larger).

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  Wonderous Car Blows away Japanese Co. - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By Bjord - November 13 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Elantra GT for 2 years now. Not once have I had a problem with it. Many people Have small issues (My parents own a Turbo New Beetle, its been in the shop more times than I can count for annoying problems, but not major ones) The Elantra is a modern marvel to the car industry. You get excellent standard options, good quality interior thats sporty and very functional (user friendly), an exterior design that has a nice design, with a slight agressive edge. The only issue with the car, which i have to complain about is the paintjob was ok. Other companies do better paintjobs, i think Hyundai goes too thin with their color, and the clear coat.

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  Bronze 2016 Elantra VE seriously rocks! - 2016 Hyundai Elantra
  By Sherrie Almes - November 11 - 9:48 pm

  I love my Elantra! This is the best vehicle Ive bought in 10 years! Well, to be fair thats because my last one was a 2005 Hyundai Tucson that my eldest grandson is now driving. Due to mobility problems, sedans became difficult for me years back because they were too low, but the 2016 Elantra has a height-adjustable driver seat which makes is perfect for me. Im my 83-year-old 49" mothers caregiver so the Elantra is a perfect match for her, too, whereas the Tucson was a bit too high for egress safety. This is my first vehicle with keyless ignition about which I was a bit dubious, but Ive come to love not having to carry a key ring around. I love the sunroof (standard on the VE), and the backup camera has been very useful at night backing out of our long driveway which has a curve in it. My only two negatives are: 1. The curve of the roof line toward the A pillars is a bit shallow as it goes toward the windshield which makes getting in and out a little bit difficult without bumping my head. Its taken a while to remember to lean back into the seat but Im getting the hang of it. 2. Visibility, especially obliquely, is somewhat reduced by the wideness of the C pillars combined with the narrowing of the rear windows. These are things that one can adjust to eventually so Id just advise additional caution until adapted. All-in-all I would heartily recommend this vehicle. My sister, who went with me to buy mine, liked it so much she bought one the next day.