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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  Best $14,000 Ive ever spent - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By BadReligion702 - February 24 - 10:00 am

  A great car for the money. It feels like a much more expensive car then it is.

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  Happy Happy Happy - 2017 Hyundai Elantra
  By ABNEN69 - February 23 - 8:52 am

  I wanted an economical car with good gas mileage and would have gladly sacrificed for my daily commute of 100 miles round trip. I have exactly what I wanted but with all the extras and technology I never expected for the price. I love driving my car. It averages 32-33 MPG at the pump- the readout on the dash says 35-37 MPG average.

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  100 percent satisfied - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By Al Kadis - February 21 - 2:00 am

  Had this car almost 2 years. Wonderful car. No problems, just change the oil. Rides and handles well. Great car for the money. Thousands less than Corola or Civic with equipment thsy do not supply, like traction control,heated outside mirrors, drivers seat fully adjustable for height, std side air bage, sunglass holder.

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  Comfort without the cost - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By jorjor64k - February 21 - 2:00 am

  For all wanting a comfortable yet sporty commuter car Id have to recommend this latest version of Hyundais Elantra. With a 5 speed manual transmission, 135 hp 4 cylinder and a roomy interior with well thought out amenities, theres not another car like it for the price. Ive actually begun to enjoy the 150 mile round trip to work up and down the jersey turnpike since Ive gotten behind the wheel. Gas mileage is a little iffy at 32 mpg. The interior noise is kept to minimum even when cruising 70. All things considered, the price not being the least, theres not a better value out there.........

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  My 2nd Elantra and still loving it - 2016 Hyundai Elantra
  By Doug N. - February 17 - 5:42 pm

  I bought my first Elantra back in 2013. The GT hatchback automatic. After 3 years and 80K miles I thought Id trade it in while still under warranty to get a better deal. And I certainly did. My new SE with Popular Equip Pkg listed for $20, 550. I paid $16, 885. WOW! They allowed me $8350 for my GT and threw in a spare tire kit and mud guards too. It was so cheap I paid cash...lol. No payments. Yippee! Its silver with grey cloth and has the auto dimming mirror with homelink and compass. The only thing I miss is no heated seats which the GT had. The gas mileage is averaging 36.5 with mostly highway driving in heavy rush hr traffic. Acceleration is decent. The Hankook tires are great. Sure glad I got the 16 because the new 17 is kinda boring looking and many of the great standard features are gone unless you really add on pkg after pkg.

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  GT is the way to go - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By Cryscokid - February 15 - 10:00 am

  This is an excellent car for little money! The best part is that all the features I love are STANDARD Equipped. Try and find that in a Honda or Toyota. Big bang for the buck and it will get you around in style. Paid under edmunds price even after my trade! Solid Gold!

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  Nice car - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By jayman02 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought the 2003 Elantra GlS with a moonroof, keyless, and an alarm, msrp of over $15,000 for less than $13,000 out the door. Definately a good price for the car. It is comfortable too. The only thing I do not like is the interior cloth. It is way too ugly.

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  Amazing value in a car! - 2017 Hyundai Elantra
  By Adam Arcadipane - February 13 - 6:57 am

  This car is quiet, nimble, conservative yet athletic in its styling, intuitive and perhaps better in fuel economy than its ratings suggest. The overall fit and finish feels expensive and there is a feeling of safety and reliability conveyed. I have the base Limited PZEV model (NY). If I wanted to hire lease payment there was an additional technology package in ultimate package that would have taken this vehicle over the top for me. But hey, we all have a budget. The ride was second to none when compared with others in its segment and despite the slightly dated torsion beam suspension in the rear rather than newer multi-link suspension technology, this car floats! Lets not forget as well that even though this car competes in the compact segment, the 2017 Elantra qualifies as a midsize sedan based on its interior space. Engine pickup is actually not disappointing and feels appropriate for this segment. Want more zing? Pop it in sport mode and youve got more than enough power to giddyup. The steering also tightens in this mode for a better feel around corners at higher speeds. The Limited trim was my favorite by far and dressed out the car quite nicely. Gotta love the 17 in. "Ninja wheels," as I like to call them. The SE trim, however was unexciting and the wheels just didnt do it for me. A disappointment in the Limited model came when discovering that the moon roof did not come standard as in even the second tier trims of the all new Civic. Hyundai promised new trims will be available later. The Hyundai entertainment system lacks text messaging, which can be frustrating, but all models of this year offer Android Auto and Apple Car Play. (be sure to close apps youre not using or it will be slow). Support for Android Auto was was actually high on my list when shopping to replace my 2013 Corolla. Hyundai blue link allows you to start with climate control, unlock, lock, toggle horn and lights and more with its connected package, which is free for a year and the remote package, which is $75 your first year and 99 after that. Hyundai blue Link app also supports smart watches. These are great features but it is disappointing that there is no remote start on the key fob itself and it is only available through blue link or having an optional remote start added requiring a second key fob. Theres also no option to just purchase the package you must have connected package (roadaide assistance, SOS etc.) which is another hundred dollars if you desire the remote package. Want OnStar-like navigation and support? Throw another "hundy" at Hyundai. As far as convenience goes, when approaching the car if it has been locked, the door handles light up, assisting you with getting into your car without damaging it and giving the driver a feel that the car knows him or her. Also, there is a smart trunk which opens when the driver stands behind the trunk with the key fob for more than four seconds with the doors locked. Very very handy! Is it the most full-featured, bells and whistles car out there? Well...no, but it sure does compete and offer amazing value and quality. Every car has pros and cons and there is a very high probability that this car has just the pros youre looking for.

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  works for me!! - 2017 Hyundai Elantra
  By hyundai owner - February 8 - 11:47 am

  cheap reliable transportation without alot of unneeded extras. traded a 2015 mazda 6 for this, had some doubts but quickly overcame that problem. now onto the details. PROS: -sips gas with it 6 speed automatic,(7speed is also available on other models) which so far, i am getting nearly 35 mpg (A/C OFF) in the city. the transmission has 3 settings, standard ECO, and SPORT. ECO is what is getting the better mileage so far. -the ride is firm but not uncomfortable for what you are paying for. road noise is a bit of an issue on rough surfaces, otherwise things are pretty decent. -the interior is well appointed and this model has the basic package with a hands free phone radio. seating is comfortable and will not have your bum feeling like you sat on bricks for a week. -engine noise at idle is nearly inaudible, the small but capable 2.0 litre packs a punch and gets the job done but keep in mind it is a basic engine and you will not be winning lemans with it. CONS: -rudimentary audio system, seems that 80% of the radios sounds are through the front door mounted speakers and this is very obvious. i am not sure if this is normal or is the radio broken? i have a ticket open with dealership to get this addressed. -lack of disc brakes on ALL wheels. you get a sudden quick sinking to the rear when you let off the brakes. could this be due to the drums?? not sure... Now i wish hyundai would get with the program and offer standard discs all around on ALL MODELS and stop with 1930s technology. we pay alot for our hyundai why skimp on what matters?? -i mentioned road noise above in pros it is tolerable but on unmilled surfaces this gets annoying quickly. -the use of cheap parts in engine. i have discovered a felt formed hose is used in the air intake side vs. the normal rubber tubing we have come accustomed to over many years. wonder what that will cost when it goes? can you say warranty?? SUMMARY: the 2018 elantra SE is a good back and forth car for daily commutes. with hyundais unbeatable 10/100,000 mile powertrain warranty you can not go wrong here. reliable to no end indeed. the vehicle is probably ok for a few short trips or quick escape for a weekend. if you are driving 2 hours or less. for first time financers this would be my choice, as well for young couples minus any children. OVERALL: hyundai wants too much money for what you are getting. this model of trim and appointments will lead to some disappointments, and quickly. the car has drum brakes in the rear and this should be discs. audio system is far reaching and left wanting. comfort is in reach but not what i would use for vacation. the price should be much lower on this model starting in mid $17,500.00 and NOT $20,800+ range. sorry hyundai but you overpriced this way too much.

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  Hyundai Elantra Eco 2017 - 2017 Hyundai Elantra
  By Maureen Barth - February 5 - 5:13 pm

  Awesome, reliable, and dependable vehicle