The Hyundai Elantra is a popular compact sedan that was recently completely redesigned (although the commodious Elantra Touring remains unchanged). The Elantra blends eye-grabbing styling and excellent fuel efficiency with the high level of standard features for which Hyundai has become known.
The most apparent change at first glance is of course the dramatic restyling of the vehicle, which now wears familiar lines and style from the rest of Hyundai's freshest products. Inside, occupants will likely have a similar experience with more modern and higher quality materials and more appealing designs.
Hyundai has also switched from three models to just two: GLS (base) and Limited (top-of-the-line). Both models feature the same new 1.8-liter four-cylinder that reports to duty with 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque.
The all-new Elantra is rated at 29 city, 40 highway with either its six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. It is worth noting, however, the manual transmission is not available on the Limited trim level.
Trim Level Breakdown
Hyundai offers the Elantra in GLS and Limited trim levels, both of which can be configured with a number of optional packages and features.
Differences between the GLS and Limited start with the basics, such as standard 15-inch wheels on the GLS, and 17-inch wheels on the Limited. The Limited also comes standard with an automatic transmission.
Other standard features on the Limited include solar control glass, a windshield shade band, fog lamps, air conditioning, one-touch driver's window up, telescoping steering wheel, leather seats, sliding center armrest, Bluetooth, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted radio controls, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, heated front and rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and an illuminated ignition.
Many of the features listed as standard on the Limited are available on the GLS, excluding notable such as leather seats and other surfaces.
For those looking to add a little extra, Hyundai has a few packages to choose from: GLS M/T Popular Equipment Package, GLS Preferred Equipment Package and GLS Navigation package round out the choices for the base model.
The Popular Equipment Package adds air conditioning, cruise control, telescopic wheel, solar glass, windshield band and 16-inch steel wheels.
The Preferred Equipment Package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth, cloth inserts for the doors, a sliding center armrest, illuminated vanity mirrors and an illuminated ignition.
The Navigation Package, which requires the Preferred Package, add a 7-inch screen and navigation system, a rearview camera, a 360-watt stereo with external amplifier and automatic headlamps.
Should you start with the already well-equipped Limited, the only available package is the Limited Premium Package, which adds everything found in the GLS Navigation Package, plus proximity key entry with electronic push-button start and an immobilizer.
Occupant Safety
All Elantra models come standard with dual front, front side and side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Key Competitors
Car shoppers looking at the Elantra should also check out the sporty Ford Focus sedan, the dated but indestructible Toyota Corolla and the Americanized Volkswagen Jetta.