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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  Quality confirms decision to buy Hyundai - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  By jsimecka - May 18 - 10:55 pm

  I bought the car new in Sept 2008 and it has been a delight. Very quiet while running, fun to drive, very tidy controls and interior, and more leg room in back seat than most small sedans. I can take my wife and two boys (13 and 15) and we dont feel cramped. Bought in Ft. Worth and drove to Topeka and it got 37 MPG. This was with no air and careful driving. Currently averages 32 MPG with a lot of stop and go driving. Now has 9,000 miles on it and I have not had any problems at all. Thanks to Consumer Reports for pointing out this Diamond in the Rough. You can not go wrong with this car.

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  Love my Hyundai ! - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By Tuc41 - May 18 - 10:00 am

  I traded my 2002 Dodge Stratus SE in for this car. The trade in value on it was so low after only 2yrs. I couldnt stand it! I have only had this car for less than a month...but so far I just absolutely love it! Excellant options and price. I am still driving on the same gas as when I bought it. Also it has just as much room in it as my Stratus did. Very cosy car.

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  Hyundai Elantra GT - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By familyguy - May 18 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Elantra GT for the extra features. I have no complaints so far. Its built really solid, has good acceleration, and a very smooth ride for a small 4 cylinder. The engine is relatively quiet, and responsive. I would say that my Elantra can compete with nearly any compact in its class.

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  Perfect! - 2017 Hyundai Elantra
  By dean cromwell - May 17 - 8:43 pm

  Purchased 7-16, 18000 miles to date. This sedan is considered rather base transportation, but it certainly is more than the price perception. Build quality is excellent, fit, finish is all could ask for, its not a Lexus... Performance is good, engine revs willingly, auto auto trans is terrific, and gets the most of the modest HP, Gas mileage is amazing! In town mileage is 34-35, mixed 38-40, trips/only fwy 44-47. Have taken 3 long vacation trips, lots of hilly passes, 47 MPG was the norm, fully loaded. Trans again offers three modes, all increasing response, eco, normal, sport. I use eco 95% of the time, plenty of power... I really like the body style, not too space ship, the style will endure for me.

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  Surprisingly big little car - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  By Gary - May 17 - 5:20 pm

  First noticed this gem as the top car in its class as reviewed by Consumer Reports for 2008. I tested the usual crew, Corolla, Civic, Mazda3. All were real nice. When I tested the SE, I was impressed. I made a good deal and got the rebate on top of it. Had to wait two weeks for an SE in Carbon Grey with the heated seats + sunroof but it worth it. I actually got a compliment on its color. First time in 30 years anyone even noticed the color of my car. Almost too zippy at freeway speeds. Its got the power when you need it. Yes, the engine is a little noisy when pushed. I like to think it sounds sporty.

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  Best Value in Class - 2009 Hyundai Elantra
  By cubordinate - May 17 - 9:33 am

  Bought this car three months ago as my first car. Was thinking about getting a Toyota Corolla but the price was $100 more per month for less! The build quality and feel of the car is great. Heated seats get very warm and phase from hot to warm which can really loosen your back muscles during your commute home! Full tank will get you about 600-650 kms for $35 bucks Cnd ($30US). Recommended accessories: Ipod connection, Window Rain blockers, Petal and gear shift kit, Rubber mats. If you ask at the dealer they will throw these accessories in with the car for free.

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  WHAT A CAR! - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By frankestrada - May 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car for my mom on mothers day. I bought it cause of ratings and the price. I was so impressed by the performance and looks of this car that I traded in my galant and got a second one. The balance of looks, warranty, and performance makes all other so called better imports nothing more than a pricier elantra wannabes. This car has me hooked and change the outlook of Hyundai in my eyes. My fiancee also plans on trading in her civic in this weekend. Happy mothers day mom!

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  Great Value - 2004 Hyundai Elantra
  By KatyLE - May 13 - 10:00 am

  There is no way youll find a car with more to offer in this price class. Excellent interior design, and lots of standard features.

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  Remarkable Car for the Price - 2008 Hyundai Elantra
  By rachmaninov1 - May 9 - 1:33 pm

  Ive driven the Elantra SE Auto 500 miles since purchase two weeks ago. Steering on my unit is responsive and well-balanced, yet several units I test-drove had what felt like over-responsiveness to steering wheel movement. City ride is comfortable; minor bumps feel like minor bumps. Highway ride is comfortable too; easy to hit 70mph without feeling any loss of control. No difference in performance between wet and dry roads. Acceleration is adequate for ordinary highway merge, but is definitely geared towards fuel economy rather than fun. However, I did need to gun it once, and boy did it respond. Braking is smooth, although I have not needed to stop short. Avg. 29.9mpg in 50/50.

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  Great Car - 2009 Hyundai Elantra
  By Knight - May 7 - 3:09 pm

  Really enjoy the Elantra and it is a much better value than the overpriced Corolla or Civic. The SE comes with almost everything you could ask for, while on the Toyota or Civic, so much is optional. When you add the options that the Elantra has standard, the price easily exceeds 20k! As for the comments about the wheel wells and mud guards. Well, the Elantra is not a 4X4 all terrain vehicle. If you want a car for gravel and other off pavement environments, you should have gotten the Santa Fe.