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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  Smart Car, Smart Consumer - 2002 Hyundai Elantra
  By BIGA - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I can honestly say that I am most impressed with this vehicle. Standing at 20k on the road and many months in the passange/drivers seat I have grown to appreciate the ergonomics, powertrain, and the climate control system in this vehicle. For those of larger stature, this car is easy to access (64" and still comfortable in the front, less so in the back). It is more powerful than the competition yet it remains composed at all corners, unlike most econos. Value is the word of the day and this car aims to please the wallet and the commuter.

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  Great car - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By tmattison - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I have had my new Elantra for just a few weeks. Im 63" and fit well in this car. The controls are easy to use and the drive of the car is firm and tight and peppy. In addition to feel of the car, it just plain looks great. The CD/MP3 player is a welcome addition to an already great interior. However, in another review, I read that the sound system looks too glitzy because of the way that it flashes different colors. After I bought the car and read the manual, I found that this color flashing option is a demo mode and can be turned off. For $14K(+) and with the standard set of options, you just cant do better.

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  Great Value for Price - 2001 Hyundai Elantra
  By MR2pilot - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I drive 80 miles a day, to and from work, in moderately heavy traffic. I was worried about the handling of a compact car in such traffic, but the Elantra handles more like a mid size than some actual mid size cars Ive driven. The automatic transmission is very responsive in traffic stop and go situations, and Ive been consistently getting 31 MPG as measured by filling the tank every week, then dividing the trip odometer mileage. Very nice car!

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  One of the best cars Ive ever had! - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By Becky D. - August 2 - 5:57 pm

  This is a truly incredible car. I bought this car used in 2013 with 35k miles on it. Now in 2016 with 65k miles, I have not had one problem with it. The only thing that I have had in the almost 3 years Ive had this car is getting the tires replaced once, and a few oil changes. There was a re-call for a braking problem where the car would roll, and my local Hyundai Dealer (amazing service, btw) fixed the "issue" (I never had a problem) immediately free of charge. The car is so reliable, especially considering that this car has 65k miles on it. I get incredible fuel economy and this car has saved me so much money on gas. I was once rear-ended on the highway off-ramp at about 15 or so mph. My car had a small scratch on the back bumper, and the cruddy Mitsubishi from the 90s that hit me was pretty mangled. I absolutely love this car so much and would even recommend it to smaller families, because of how much room it has. It could be considered a small family sedan if you ask me. I really think that Hyundai/Kia will be the next Toyota. An Asian import that is know for quality reliable cars. The Hyundai Elantra is a great value, has incredible fuel economy and reliability, and is an all around awesome car. Would recommend to anyone.

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  Big bang for the buck - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By bartbrown - July 28 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a hatchback and narrowed it down to a PT Cruiser,Elantra GT and the Protege PR5. They are all good choices but the Elantra GT had the european styling( resembles a Saab) and came loaded for just $15 K delivered ,tax tags etc. . My wife doesnt like the tight european suspension....but I love how it handles. Once you get over that it is a Hyundai, you will really like the car. I keep my cars for a long time, so the poor trade-in doesnt bother me. Relaibility is what I want and I have a 10 years of warentee.

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  Mattys Elantra - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By Mattjo - July 28 - 10:00 am

  Buying my 2002 Elantra was the best dicision I could have made! For a small car, you cannot compare the ride comfort, standard features, warranty and price to any other foreign small car. When I searched for my "perfect" new automobile I never would have thought Hyundai...The warranty attracted me, I drove one and was so impressed I wrote my check the moment my test drive was over! I have driven over 26,000 miles in the 9 months I have owned the Elantra and not once has it skipped a beat~! AND you cannot beat the warranty!

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  A great gas sipper - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By Dave W - July 25 - 10:00 am

  This car has been a great change from our GMC 14mpg mini-van. We took our first road trip and pulled 32mpg w/a.c. on. Im 62" and have plenty of leg/head room, my wife is 51" and can pull up w/in easy reach. The trunk can fit quite a bit. 48qt cooler,2 sleeping bags/pillows,6 man tent,2 chairs and some toys for the kids. The seats are comfortable but not cushy. Our longest sit has been 3hrs w/one rest stop, a little stiff for that long. For around town and short jaunts its great. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for style, affordability and a great warranty package.

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  Biggest bang for the dollar. - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  By kevin - July 23 - 12:03 pm

  The new 2008 Hyundai Elantra is the best buy out there in my opinion. Best warranty, most standard safety features, most standard features, and it was about $2000 - $4000 less than the under equipped Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. I recommend this buy to anyone who is looking for the biggest bang for their buck!

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  love my car!!! - 2016 Hyundai Elantra
  By Melissa Dawn - July 21 - 6:51 pm

  this is my first NEW car and I love it!!! its super stylish, I picked the pearl white with glitter lol, but I cant complain at all no regrets here!!

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  Hyundai Elantra GT - your money x5 - 2003 Hyundai Elantra
  By jlee022 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  great car with outstanding build quality. After countless miles on the city and highway, i can safely say that this car is one of the most reliable ive seen in a long time.