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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  Engine blown - 2014 Hyundai Elantra
  By Carla Soleski - May 1 - 11:53 am

  I purchased a 2014 Hyundai Elantra in late 2014 new. The only reason was the 100,000 mile warranty.The car has 31000 miles and I owe approx $15,000 to Hyundai for it.I have owned Hondas, Toyotas and must say they have exceptional customer service and stand behind issues involving their vehicles. Hyundai fails in this area.I have never had an issue with this car, I have maintained it. On April 28th I was driving on the expressway, having no issue, when suddenly the oil pressure light flashed and I heard a loud noise and the engine shut down. I rolled to the shoulder. There was oil all over the ground under my vehicle.I called Hyundai roadside assistance and they were there within 30 minutes.They towed my car to the nearest Hyundai dealer, Webb Hyundai in Merrillville Indiana. Within a couple hours a technician named Jim called me to say that my engine was locked. He said it was ruined and would cost $7000 to replace.He went on to say that they will not honor the warranty because whoever changed my oil filter last overtightened it and the gasket was crushed, sticking out, which caused all the oil to leak out. #1 The oil change was in January, the car is parked daily and nightly on a white concrete driveway. ‪#‎2There‬ is no sign of oil, not one drop. If it was an issue with the oil filter, I would have had a problem within days of the filter installation. A mechanic friend believes it was a problem inside the engine that caused the regulation valve to stick, the high pressure cause the catastrophic event, deformed the filter & the gasket between the filter and the base blew out and the system lost oil causing the engine to seize. I have filed a complaint with the corporate office to no avail. I have spoken with the district manager at Duke of Oil in Hobart Indiana, who claims no negligence. He told me the same thing my mechanic friend says, that it is an engine issue and Hyundai should replace my engine. Webb Hyundai told me to tow my car out and they offered no resolution at all. Now I will sit with a car that doesnt run in my driveway, I cant afford to repair it , and I have to make the payments to Hyundai every month or my credit will be ruined. I am hoping everyone will share this so others will not buy Hyundai vehicles. Warranties are important, that is why most of us buy new cars. Hyundai is lax in not taking care of their customers and it needs to change . I believe Hyundai legally has to prove that it is not their engine issue to void the warranty? They seem to be making up a story to get out of standing behind their product.I will be consulting an attorney.

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  My Car Air Bags dont deploy - 2006 Hyundai Elantra
  By Raul E. Garcia Sr - January 5 - 9:03 am

  I was involved in an accident and the airbags did not deploy. I contacted the Dealer here in town (Mesquite TX) and they send me to the Manufacturer, did not fix my airbags. Manufacturer did not accept any responsibility and just said: contact your dealer. Never heard of them again. I have to drive my poor car, with no airbags, and the dealer wont listen to you. Dont buy Hyundai cars. They stink! No customer service, and they dont care if you are injured or not. Tires have to constantly be replaced, specially the right rear tire. And Power Steering pump went out at 35000 miles. no warranty cover. Ralph in Mesquite Texas

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  PISSED! - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
  By Ronald - November 27 - 12:38 am

  I bought the 2011 Elantra new. Hyundai avertized 39mpg on the road, the best was 34mpg. I fought with the deal about one year. Then it appears they were taken to court for that, and now each year I take it in to slow them my miles I have, and then I get a gift card for $80-100. Next the car started locking in gear, the towed it in and fixed that problem. This was followed by having transmission problems, that finally they put another TRANS (79, 000 miles) in it (only after a number of trips back to the dealer. After that I had to take it in for something on a recall. Then around 95,000 it started having difficulty shifting into third gear. This problem came and went. It ALWAYS seemed to improve as I was about to take it into the shop. This time it continue non stop for about a week so I took it in. Well they said I need the SECOND NEW TRANS. But now I was over bought warranties. They said the original warranty is for 100,000 and Im at 104,000, so Im over that, and the warrenty for the replacement TRANS that I got a 79,000, is only good for 12,000. So that means I 4,000 over origin warrenty, and 25,000 over warrenty for the second TRANS. Now they want me to pay $2,900 for the second TRANS! Well, I was told this the day before thanksgiving, Ive had time to calm down, so I go back tomorrow I speak with someone else. I guess if they dont cover the cost, then I begin a campaign of writing on these forums/blogs, etc. Letting people know of my experiences. This is my 5th Hyundai, and if they dont do the right thing and put a new TRANS in at NO COST to me...it will be the last HYUNDAI I EVER PURCHASE! I also have concerns about the paint chipping and the floor mats wearing out! If anyone can help please respond here, [contact info removed].

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  Got the lemon!! - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By brittany - November 4 - 12:22 pm

  absolutly hate this car! Good gas mileage and good in the snow but other then that horrible engine drone. Transmission has had a problem since day one that the dealer will do nothing with! Most uncomfortable driver seat and rider seat. Love the size of the trunk and heated front and back seats. Have yet to recommend this car to anyone.

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  The worst car I owned and the most expensive one - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By Bruce Para - October 11 - 5:37 pm

  The 2012 and 2013 Elantras will apparently always be able to write they get up to 38 MPH. They did lie to the EPA and over-inflated mileage. Thats fact. Hyundai (corp.) told me the old stickers (Monroney) shouldve been replaced on cars reflecting actual and lower mileage. That never happened I understand, however, from Edmunds that this slight of hands (my phrase) is quite okay. But I bought a car that "got" up to 38 MPH and no trip has come close. Problem 1. Under 500 miles had a hardware problem to my overpaid and larger GPS. It took time and effort to get that corrected and I read a review elsewhere when one person gave up on the GPS. Im back at my own dealer. I have well under 9k miles on my car and three things needed to be fixed. The dealer may have been somewhat confused but at least they agreed to correct it. The issue, however, is an old one. Bring it in. They see what the issues are. They order the parts or not. I bring it in and they got the wrong part and did little to nothing with my car. Do they care? Doesnt seem like it. I like the dealership at this time. I loathed them when I bought it and when we buy another, it will not be a Hyundai. But I held my breath. Maybe they improved. It appeared that way. The service dept. dont have to drive it back in three+ times to get things fixed that shouldve been done ONCE. It feels like the old days with the old very bad dealers and cars. The good news is I am dissuading friends from going to Hyundai. Its working so far.

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  garbage on wheels - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By sean - August 21 - 11:52 pm

  Everything is cheap and falls apart. A pain in the neck to even put gas in.

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  2013 Hyundai Elantra - Do Not Buy - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By sweenangel - April 27 - 2:06 pm

  This is by far the worst purchase I have ever made. The paint began to chip almost immediately followed by the steering wheel and gear shift. Then I got a flat tire and found that the car did not come with a spare tire. When I complained to Hyundai corporate I was told I should have reviewed the window sticker. Forgive me for assuming that the hole where the spare tire should be would contain a spare tire. The dealer did not point this out and they did not offer to sell me one. I hit a small pothole recently and the entire wheel cracked like it was made out of paper. The window sticker they chastised me for not reviewing carefully had incorrect gas mileage. Avoid at all costs.

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  Worst Car EVER! - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By amanda877 - April 9 - 11:53 am

  I hate this car....nothing but problems. Ive had the short block in the engine replaced, battery multiple times, starter replaced...the list keeps on going. Unreliable. Wish I wouldve known about the issues before...I wouldve gone with something more reliable.

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  Average Car - 2007 Hyundai Elantra
  By beardude92 - January 24 - 10:09 pm

  I purchased my Elantra early November and was genuinely excited as it was my first vehicle bought from a dealership. However, that excitement quickly dissipated the more I drove the car. While the acceleration is adequate, it does leave much to be desired, especially when the vehicle returns a mild 26 MPG on average with a 5-speed. The 5-speed on my Hyundai is also in need of repair with only 100k miles on the vehicle. The handling responds, but without a sense of urgency, leaving a very dull engagement, even on curvy roads. When thrown into a turn, the car listens, but in such a way that it seems lethargic. All-in-all, not a bad car. Just an incredibly lackluster experience.

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  Nothing but problems - 2006 Hyundai Elantra
  By pinache2 - January 8 - 11:15 pm

  On one hand, I have made this little car work hard. This car has driven from Florida to California and halfway back pulling full 5x8 Uhaul trailers. It has driven from Northern to Southern California and back. On the other hand, I have had this car since 35k. In that time I have replaced the power steering pump 6 times. I have replaced everything else power steering-related at least twice. I have replaced many aspects of the exhaust system, the wheel bearings, anything and everything brakes including the brake lines, most fuses, the controls for the locks and windows, and more. I continue to average a few thousand every year in repairs since I bought this car.