Overview & Reviews

The Hyundai Elantra Touring was based on the European version of the fourth-generation Elantra sedan. Compared to the sedan of the same time period, the Elantra Touring hatchback wagon had a slightly longer wheelbase, sportier suspension tuning and different styling inside and out.

Where the Elantra Touring really stood out, however, was with its hauling abilities. The interior was roomy enough to seat four adults in comfort, and cargo volume was impressive. Unfortunately, the Touring never sold in big numbers, and Hyundai eventually replaced it with the newer Elantra GT. But if you need a used practical hauler with some driving spirit, the Elantra Touring merits a close look.

Used Hyundai Elantra Touring
Produced from 2009 through 2012, the Hyundai Elantra Touring was initially offered in a single well-equipped trim level. For 2010, Hyundai broke out the Touring into two trim levels, GLS and SE. Standard equipment on the GLS included air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, full power accessories, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a six-speaker sound system with a USB/iPod interface.

There was an optional package available for the GLS that we recommend looking for that included extra features including roof rails, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, upgraded upholstery and additional driver seat adjustments. Those features were standard on the SE, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery and heated front seats. Bluetooth was optional on both models.

The Elantra Touring was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 138 horsepower and 137 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, and a four-speed automatic was optional.

Inside, there was plenty of room for all occupants and their gear. The Touring was more like a midsize wagon than a compact hatchback, as it offered 24 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a massive 65 cubes with them folded down. The latter is more than many competing hatchbacks or wagons. The Touring's cabin design came from Hyundai's European studios, but the result -- primarily in terms of the interior materials – was inferior to the U.S.-market Elantra sedan of the same time.

On the road, we found the Hyundai Elantra Touring performed reasonably well, hitting 60 mph in a little under 9 seconds. The Touring's ride was also smooth and stable, and the relatively quiet cabin made it a good highway cruiser.

If versatility and utility are at the top of your list, a used Hyundai Elantra Touring stands as a great choice among small hatchbacks or wagons, especially considering its feature content, large cargo capacity and overall drivability.

User Reviews:

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  Good Value - 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By Chuck - June 22 - 5:53 pm

  Bought this car in Jan 2010 to replace a 1997 Escort Wagon. Overall, Im satisfied with the value ($16k). There were a few things that took a little getting used to vs the Escort. For me, the over the left shoulder blind spot of the frame behind the driver windows is in a really bad spot. In moderate traffic I have to bob my head and look several times before I change lanes left. I highway drive usually at off hours, so I probably average 70 mph. I figure Im getting about 25 mpg vs around 30 for the Escort, but the Hyundai is heavier. The window ledge is higher, for arm hanging purposes. Steering is tight, the cars gonna go right where youre looking, so keep your eyes on the road.

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  2012 Elantra Touring GL - 2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By rooke1991 - May 7 - 2:23 pm

  Had it for 8 months now, pretty damn good! Really comfortable and spacious, driven with 5 average guys, between 20-27. and everyone had enough space for a 3 hour drive. Fit enough stuff(tent, beer, air mattresses, etc) for 3 people for a weekend camping trip, not comprimising on seating space at all. Alittle slow acceeration wise but once going its all good! Sound system is good, the usb input is kind of a pain, auxillary cable works fine though. Tons of compartments, all mine are empty dont have enough stuff to fill them. ONly complaint is seeing as im 21 I get called a soccer mom alot.

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  SE model has European feel - 2011 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By obx2003 - April 3 - 3:30 am

  I bought this car when it was 33 months old with 31K miles from a Honda dealer. After a year I can say Im quite happy with the car. Sporty handling and a decent combo of power and economy. Im a DIYer so I was happy to see oil & filter changes are a breeze. Engine uses no oil between oil changes. The hatchback practicality is great. A golf club bag fits neatly across the back. I had narrowed my decision down to this car or a Toyota Matrix. Im happy with my selection. I average over 30 mpg in mixed driving and about 34 highway mpg

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  Its Okay - 2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By urbanhippie001 - October 14 - 11:00 am

  Overall, the car is reliable. However, Ive had to replace the odometer/dash twice (w/in 60K miles) due to the numbers disappearing on me. Not sure if due to malfunction, heat/sun, etc... But its annoying because the fix resets the odometer back to 0. I really miss my old 2005 Hyundai (accent). It was made better than this car. Other than that, the car has been reliable. No major problems aside from odometer. Does not accelerate quickly. Would I buy one again? Unfortunately, no.

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  Just Got it - 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By Norm - September 24 - 1:33 am

  Although we only have a couple of hundred miles on it so far, Ive driven many cars over the years and feel I am qualified to offer my thoughts on this car. While many wish for more HP, I feel it is satisfactory for what the car is designed to do, get you from point A-B as economically as possible with as much comfort as possible. This car achieves these goals. The steering is certainly lacking that "Hug the road" feel. The brakes work well with plenty of stopping power. I think youd be hard pressed to find a better bang for your buck. The best thing is that the S.O. loves it and when shes happy, the world is happy! Safe Travels.

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  Nice Car, but Should Get Better Mileage - 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By Tim - June 19 - 8:16 pm

  Just bought this car in Nov. 2009, and we have put a little over 500 miles on it. Spent 2 months car-shopping at the worst possible time: right after Cash-For-Clunkers, when the dealership lots are empty! We were attracted to the wagon-style, which is a style that is NOT popular in America. The other 2 cars we were considering was the VW Jetta Sportwagen TDI and the Honda Fit. Still in its break-in period, so dont really know about its mileage yet, but its EPA is 23 city, 30 highway (which should be better). Handling is great - we dont mind that it has a somewhat stiff ride. The SE has a lot of features that others in its class leave out: XM radio, heated seats & outside mirrors, etc.

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  Nice vehicle for the price - 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By John - April 4 - 10:13 am

  I like every thing about this vehicle except the the way the steering wheel is built. With one of the three connecting post right at the bottom of the steering wheel, it makes it difficult to place your hand in a comfortable position without reaching for the top of the steering wheel. Gas mileage could be better. 24 is the best i can get. Of course, most of my driving is city..stop and go.

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  great car! - 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By Les - March 12 - 3:00 pm

  This is a fun car to drive. Lots of pickup, great maneuverability. We have a 2004 Santa Fe that has 120,000 miles and still runs great. Our Elantra Touring actually has a bit more interior room than the Santa Fe. Suspension is a bit stiff. Good gas mileage 26 mpg. Sound system is great.

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  better than youd expect - by far - 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By frequentt buyer - August 10 - 5:23 am

  I bought an 09 elantra touring on Monday. Got $500 of sticker, and $1000 rebate. Prices will go down more, since this is a brand new model, but its a great car. Peppy acceleration, tons of room and legitimate 30+ mpg highway/26 in town. 100,000 mile warranty too

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  elantra touring is great value for money - 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
  By rodger - August 8 - 4:00 am

  What a great little car. There are very few options you can add on to this car as it comes very well equipped. The elantra touring is the same model as one they sell over seas and it shows in the handling, the car handles like a sport car. It comes with eltronic stability control which also helps in this department. I got 30 mpg second tank and the driving consisted of about 45% city and 55% highway driving. I love the bluetooth which will dial your cell phone with voice commands. The only dislikes are the dinky horn, come on Hyundai with todays quite cars it likely wont even be hear if someone has their Windows up and the radio on, also the key and remote should be combined.