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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  Very dependable car even at 198k miles - 2007 Hyundai Elantra
  By Tyler - August 21 - 12:40 pm

  I personally own a 2007 Elantra that is approaching 90k miles and I have never had any issues with it. My cousin owns one that is the same year and he has 198k miles on his. He beats the crap out of his cars and does absolutely no preventative maintenance, and he does not consistently change his oil. The only things he has ever replaced is the emergency breaks and the breaks and rotors. Overall a great car for the price.

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  My little Korean - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By Anders Bang - August 10 - 10:55 am

  I have my Elantra since 2013. So far I only got 16500 miles on it, and it has been running fine. MPGs on the highway is great, I see upper 30s and a few times over 40. It is not a race car, the 1.8 does not have a lot of torque. I never use the ECO mode since it makes the car feel slower, and forces up shifts. I am sure some people will like it, but it makes the car even more dull to me. Half a year ago a lady nicely decided to crash test it by hitting me with her Isuzu Trooper. The poor Elantra crumpled as intended and i got out without a scratch, though in need of a new front end. The stock tires are terrible, I cant wait to wear them down a little more and buy some proper ones. The car is roomy, easily sits four people. I am 6 foot 4 and have no issues being comfortable in the front. Very good trunk space too. Buy a spare tire if you want the safety, it is not included.

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  Purchased new 2007 Never a problem - 2007 Hyundai Elantra
  By happy elantra owner - August 10 - 8:14 am

  Bought new in 2007, had no mechanical issues. Great service from Fitzgerald Hyundai. Excellent ride quality. Received excellent trade in value for vehicle as it had low miles and was very clean. I bought expecting a very reliable car, and that is what I had for 8 years. Traded it in and got over $1500 above average price for true value trade in. All city dtiving.

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  Solid Purchase - Limited - 2015 Hyundai Elantra
  By Tj - August 6 - 2:28 am

  I purchased in May of 2015 and have since taken it to 2 road trips and accumulated 6k miles on it. I can honestly say its a solid purchase. Comfortable, full of features, entertaining on the road, looks amazing. Its fuel economy is "OK", only because it was rated at 27-37 city/hwy mpg, but I calculated 24-26 overall in mostly city/some highway driving, perhaps the LV heat has to do something with it. I love the drive selectable steering, the transmission is okay, you can on some occasions feel the transmission shift harshly, but rarely. Having been on those road trips, Ive noticed some things. My passengers and I both agree that the back seats are not comfortable on long road trips, theyre leather so Im not sure this could be said about cloth seats. Our butts and backs were very sore at the 2 hour mark, stretching at each rest stop was a must, but the two front seats were Okay for the road trip.

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  Replacement of engine - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By Dianne Bruch - August 5 - 4:05 pm

  I bought this car new. The engine had to be replaced twice. The dealer was unable to find the cause of the engine failures. I do not feel secure in the vehicle. Hyundai was unwilling to help me find a solution to this problem. Elantra owners beware of engine problems.

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  Best car I have owned. - 2006 Hyundai Elantra
  By Karen - July 31 - 12:50 am

  It has been totally dependable. I have not put it through alot of miles so I cant testify for long term. My problem is getting in and out all the time.

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  NOT A CIVIC 4 SURE - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By Bill Bidlack - July 28 - 9:47 pm

  Read the owners manual thoroughly. It is not a Corvette or Mustang. And, it certainly is not a civic. I traded in my 2008 Honda Civic for my 2013 Hyundai Elantra GSL. Most noticeable difference was the roominess. Second difference is I got 43.3 MPG w/A/C on, ECO engaged and cruise control engaged on a trip from Dothan, AL to Panama City, FL. However, use your foot on the accelerator and use Jack rabbit starts, and yes youll only get 28 or so MPG. As for road noise, if you want to reduce It get rid of the dealer supplied tires which are the cheapest at best and put on some Goodyear Comfortread or Micheline Defender tires, inflate to 32PSI and your road noise will go away. If your Elantra GSL didnt come with a spare tire kit, order one from wholesalehyudaiparts.com and save 35%. I ordered mine. Other then the above, the Hyundai Elantra GLS can provide years of great driving.

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  Six-Speed Manual Great First Car - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
  By Savian Walker - July 27 - 1:20 pm

  This is a great car for anyone seeking to learn how to drive/drive a manual transmission. The front seats are comfortable and the car is easy to control. All of this is coming from a fifteen year old who has a learners permit. The only gripe are that the seat stain easily (with water!!!) and the rear end can get a little antsy in the highway. The car has been very reliable for only being in for the curtain airbags recall and regular service. The car now has 129,000.

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  I would not buy another Hyundai Elantra - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By Derek - July 22 - 12:09 pm

  I purchased this car new in August of 2013 with 16 miles on the odometer. At 11,000 miles the drivers seat rail failed and had to be replaced under the warranty. Now at 20,000 miles the front drivers side ball bearings have failed, leaving me stranded on the side of the road. Road side assistance was amazing, but I found it very hard to get a Hyundai dealer to take the car. None of the dealers would offer me a courtesy car or rental. I had to find my own ride. The car is now fixed and back on the road, but needs a tire balance and alignment, which was affected during the repairs. The dealership said they are not responsible for this. My overall thoughts about the car, very sporty looking car, handles well, good gas mileage, reliable engine, I like the technology package, but very poor components aka powertrain and poor interior quality.

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  Me & My Elantra - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By Daniel J. Andrews - July 14 - 12:43 am

  I have put less than 25K miles on this car (which replaced a 2004 Sonata which was a great car!) since I bought it in Nov., 2012. But I am currently on what will be about a 2,500 to 3,000 mile road trip over a period of 12 days from Fla. to GA. to MI. to PA. and back to Fla. I have completed nearly 1,200 miles over the last few days. This is, without doubt, one of the best cars I have ever owned during my 74 years of life on this planet, including Fords, Mercurys, Oldsmobiles, Dodges, Plymouths and Chryslers! I loaded up my MP-3 player selected a number of CDs I had not listened to in years and confirmed that the XMRadio subscription was paid up so I was good to go. What I did not expect was the +/- 40 MPG that I am realizing on the interstates at speeds averaging 70-75 MPH. I was also concerned that these old bones would not be able to withstand hours of driving, but that is no longer a concern as the seats are so adjustable and comfortable that I only need worry about my own "bony butt" in that regard. Spent nearly 13 hours on the road on Monday, July 12 and was none the worse for wear. Also had some serious rain around Knoxville and my Elantra performed beautifully under very adverse circumstances. All in all, I could ask for nothing better. There I only enough "technology" in the base vehicle that it is a help, rather than a hindrance as I must admit that I am technologically deficient. But for getting me from 25here to there, this is one of the best rides I have ever had!