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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  Transmission Problems - 2006 Hyundai Elantra
  By missmyescort - January 14 - 7:05 pm

  Ive had my 2006 Elantra for 3 years. Up until the last week I was pretty impressed with the value. These cars are much cheaper than those in its class for any given year. I had to replace the A/C condenser and a power steering pump but not bad for three years. ENTER YEAR 4 & THE TRANNY PROBLEM! I didnt read a single review about Hyundai tranny problems... but once my car started having problems I googled "hard shift from 2nd to 3rd after car has warmed up" and WOW! A lot of people have had this problem. Replacement was the only successful fix (appears it doesnt lead to failure but I cant live it). These car also have timing belts, another expensive maintenance item so trade it in I did.

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  Dont be seduced by the phantom fuel economy - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
  By zapfogldorf - December 16 - 9:06 am

  Had our GL for almost two years and got our best mileage during the break in period which we were told was 3k. It didnt get better after 3k. We were told that the break in period is actually 5k. It didnt get better after 5k. T keep this shorter, we went in after each required distance had been travelled and each time were told that it was more. After 5k it was 7k then 10k then 12.5k then 15k then, finally we were told that under no circumstances is break in less than 20k, ever. Where did all the other numbers come from then? Bottom line, we are at over 29k now and we get the worst mileage in the life of the car. Were getting 11-14L/100 km. Were extremely disappointed.

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  Wow, no thanks to the Elantra - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By rickpettry - December 11 - 12:24 pm

  Wow So disappointed in the Elantra. I talked my wife into selling her 10 year old Honda and buying a used Elantra. I wanted her to have a car with low mileage and a warranty. sometimes I have to leave town for work and I wanted to make sure she had no problems. while I was at the Dealership. I looked at the new 2012 Elantra. I under stand that the car would not get the estimated mileage on the sticker. but the salesman talked me into trading my car in based on the money I would save buying the new Hyundai. Here is what I fount out. the Elantra only get gets 3 more miles to the gallon than my other car. it dose not get the mileage the sales person told us. what I gave up is handling. comfort, and more. I am saving about $20.00 a month. the car has so much road noise I have to crank up the stereo to here it. the stereo. is one of the worst I have had. I swear I can hear the wind blowing through my windshield right above the rear view mirror. the seats are not very comfortable, my last car was a better car, and only had 50,000 miles on it. this car is not comfortable especially for long road trips. my wifes Elantra wow. this car came with the Hyundai. certified used car warranty. all 4 tires were bald on the inside. so you couldnt see it. it was out of alignment. and we just found out the Transmission Had never been serviced.. and now it has a electrical problem. the Car only has 40,000 miles on it. that over $700.00 we had to put into a certified used car. this car gets less mileage that her 10 year old civic. and also has more road noise, ect. Now her interior is more comfortable than my new car and she cant ride in my car for long periods of time. she has a bad back. I only had 1 year left to pay off my other car. then I would have about 4 to five years of no payments. I would take that money and save it for my next. car. i figured to have my last car 8 to ten years, and then buy another new car. this way it keeps my payment down. Now I get a letter stating Hyundai will give me credit for the mileage the car doesnt get, great. that doesnt solve the the comfort, and other problems I have with this car. If I trade it in on sothing else I will take a loss. I cant see having this car for 10 years. Thanks Rick Pettry

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  Rough rider! - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By exhonda - December 6 - 9:23 pm

  Without a doubt the noisiest and hardest riding car Ive ever owned. On complaint,I was told perhaps nitrogen filled tires may be unbalanced. Guess what? That was not the problem. I was told they could not duplicate the problem[s] and was signed off. I have 2400 miles and will trade in on another brand ASAP!

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  update from 6 months ago - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By utahandjazz - December 1 - 7:58 am

  This is an update from a review i wrote 6 months ago. We now have 12000 miles on our elantra and gas milage has only improved about 1 mpg...from 22/32 to 23/33. VERY DISAPPOINTED! We took into dealer to try to improve milage and they couldnt find anything wrong. The milage indicator also does not tell the truth for the milage. When i check it with actual miles per tank and divide the gallons put in, it is about 2 mpg off. This car is horrible on ice...not sure if it is the car or the tires they put on it in the factory, but dealership said they are all-season? We dont feel safe with the kids in this car when the weather is bad. NOT HAPPY FOR THE MONEY SPENT!

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  Not being Truthful must be part of Hyundais Culture - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
  By dmee - November 17 - 11:13 am

  I would have never bought this car if the MPG was this low. My low is 23 mpg and the high was 34 on a 8 hour drive, not using A/C or the fan. I called the dealer shortly after buying it, they told me there was a break in period and just to wait. There must of been email damage control so everyone would lie to customers and say the same thing. When I questioned the MPG when the Hyundai dealer called me a week ago to try to sell me a newer car, he said he wasnt aware of any law suit but questioned me if I liked my Elantra besides the fuel mileage. I said no, and he hung up the phone. Quality!! I dont want the $100 rebate a year, I want a refund plus 15% for the lies they told me.

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  20 Miles Per Gallon - For Real... - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By lisam6 - October 16 - 8:54 pm

  Do not buy this car if gas mileage is important to you. I have had this car for 4 months. I get only 20 miles to the gallon on city, flat road driving. Disaster.

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  advertised gas mileage problem, reliability zero - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
  By araz0001 - August 20 - 3:18 pm

  I bought it in July 2011 and i investigated some problems. First of all, if you like drive fast, it doesnt dispose of buying that car because when the ECO is not seen, its fuel consumption is very bad and it is not economic about fuel consumption.The second one is about noise. After 6 month the noise emerged and while i am using it, the noise is increasing. It specifies itself when you are on the damaged road.The other one is that the car is very light. If you are going with 60 mile per hour and suddenly apply brakes the car will fly. The back of the car is dancing. Thats why in that car safety is zero!

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  Very Noisy! - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By gjg1 - August 3 - 2:36 pm

  This is my first and most likely my last Hyundai. My 2013 Elantra is the nosiest car I have ever owned hands down. The sound generated by the 17" wheels and low profile tires is extreme. Hyundai, put some sound absorbing material in and please, include a spare tire. "Just call our 24 hour road service" does not make up for sitting on the side of the road for 2 hours waiting for the tow to come.

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  Very reliable - 1998 Hyundai Elantra
  By supgamer - July 16 - 5:26 am

  I bought this Elantra with 76,000 mi. , now I have 172,000 mi. on it. I dont know if the first owner did all the fixing, but this car has been very reliable to me. I use this car for long distance deliveries (courier), therefore, most of the mileage have been highway. Besides regular maintenance (tires, fluids, brakes, tune up, etc), I had to change the crank shaft position sensor, slave cilinder, clutch, the AC fun that was out of balance and making noise, drivers inside door handle (switched with the same side back door, fits perfectly), did change the timming belt and water and thats it. My only complaint are the air vents that are very delicate (all broken). Love this car!!!