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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  ABS problems in ice due to cheap tires - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By adveragedriver - January 21 - 2:28 pm

  As a whole, I like this car. It has a very comfortable driving position for someone my size (63"), gets good gas mileage (though not what was advertised), is reasonably quiet and has this nice extended warranty. I have noticed a couple of significant problems, however, one of which is dangerous. But first, for the false sales pitch. The sales person will tell you that the oil only needs to be changed every 7500 miles. That was one of the selling points to me. But the manual has all sorts of fine print around that figure, so the actual service guys will tell you that you may void the warranty unless you change the oil around every 5000. So dont get caught in that trap. see below

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  Now one full year old GL model - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By caperguy - January 16 - 8:23 pm

  A bit disappointed with the gas mileage as it is not getting what was advertised 13000 miles later.

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  Extremely Unhappy with my choice - 2006 Hyundai Elantra
  By mike794 - January 14 - 1:00 pm

  I bought a Hyundai Elantra in 2006. About 11k miles on the car that I noticed my right rear tires treads are exposed. I TOOK THE CAR TO FIRE STONE ON TALBERT AVE. IN FOUNTAIN VALLEY CA., TO BUY A NEW TIRE, THE ATTENDANT BEFORE SEEING THE CAR ASKED ME IF I NEED TO REPLACE THE RIGHT REAR TIRE OF A HYUNDAI. I asked how did he know about the exact tire of the specific car he told me this is a common problem with HYUNDAIS Shortly after my driver side door handle broke while under warranty TUTTLE CLICK HYUNDAI said it is vandalism and not covered under warranty. I followed all procedures and finally went to SMALL CLAIM COURT where the judge ruled no one is responsible for the warranty work

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  a steal - 2010 Hyundai Elantra
  By elantrablueman - January 7 - 8:49 pm

  Bought a leftover 2010 in Jan 2011 for 12,200, 13,200 otd. Have conv. package and love the xm radio. Now have 57k and the car has been near flawless. Had a minor brake light switch recall. Averaging 30.9 mpg annually. Keep records for taxes. Better mpg on hwy/trips. I change oil every 5k and keep on trucking. Still have original brake pads. Facing some big bills at 60 k: timing belt, trans fluid, probably brakes, too. Could go $1,200. However, with my new Michelins, I could go another 60k.

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  Still going - 1998 Hyundai Elantra
  By supgamer - January 4 - 9:52 am

  I bought this car about 6 years ago for $1600 with 76,000 mi, now I have over 213,000 on it and still going like a charm, everything is working properly. Some of the things I had to repair were: 1 clutch, 2 oxygen sensors, 1 crankshaft position sensor, radiator, 1 air blower, drivers side interior door handle ( used the one from the back door as still opens the door with minor difficulty), 3 out of 4 vent louvers, (cant remember anything else), and the usual things: 1 timing belt, 2 batteries, 1 tune up stuff, oil, 2 sets of tires, brakes, bulbs, etc.

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  7.2 L/100 Km, Not really - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By richiray - January 3 - 8:51 pm

  I am writing this review cause I am disappointed with my 2013 Elantra GLS. After driving for some weeks and going for three full tanks, I am not even close to the publicized 7.2 L/Km. I am getting between 8 and 9 L/100 km (city and highway combined). I drive very cautiously, never accelerate too aggressively or maintain the car idle for prolonged periods of time. I went to see the Hyundai dealer and they first mentioned that they could not do anything about it, that 9 L/100 Km was better than other drivers were getting. I had to push the dealership to do something and I they said that I needed to take the car for a road test and I needed to pay for the test. I accepted.

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  Love my 2013 - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By ed32 - January 2 - 10:54 pm

  I got this car back in august of 2012. I absolutely love it. The only problems Ive had is with my tires. My car seems to be a road hazard magnet (I had 4 nails in 3 tires at one point) It took the service department a long time to figure out why my tire pressure kept getting low but the day they did figure it out it was covered under the tire plan that I got when I first purchased the car. I have the Fuel Reimbursement so I have to qualms with that! Overall I drive 25-30 miles to and from work every day and im getting gas just about every week and a half.

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  41000 Leased Miles Review - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
  By vixyswillie - January 1 - 3:20 pm

  Review based on 41000 leased driving miles in SE Wisconsin. No major mechanical problems. One recall repair for defective airbag headliner support bracket. Scheduled maintenance costs low. Ride somewhat noisy and rough, including side-to-side jostling over stretches of rough roads. Poor performance in snowy/slippery conditions (could have been a tires issue). Maneuverability excellent. Feature set excellent - an amazing value for the money. Beautiful exterior styling - got lots of compliments on the car. Interior comfortable, fairly roomy and well designed. Outstanding fuel economy (low to mid 30s combined city/highway). I would recommend this car.

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  Engine blew out at 34K - 2006 Hyundai Elantra
  By vivient - December 31 - 5:31 pm

  Very disappointed in the car as well as manufacturer. Car was rarely driven and well maintained. Engine power was significantly pales when compared to a similar Toyota or Honda model. Brake pads do not last at all. Our cars radiator blew out at 34K and damaged the engine. Manufacturer refused to cover repair cost under warranty even though it has not expired, basically has been a big fat lie about warranty. Will not ever consider the brand again.

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  Vibration while idle--poor customer service - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By imaupin - November 16 - 7:37 am

  I bought my 2012 Hyuandi Elantra almost 2 years ago and I feel like I should have kept my previous vehicle. My car has been giving off a vibration while idle for over 6 months and every single time I come and complain the service people do not find anything wrong with my vehicle. I met with the service manager and he test drove my car and stated that the vibration is normal. I am not sure how vibration is normal, my car literally shakes. I am almost at 30000 miles and then after that my warranty will be up! I am done with Hyuandi and if I could drive my car through the dealership to show my frustration I would. I do not recommend this car That is why they provide all these warranties!