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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  my 2013 elantra gls - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By steven39 - May 19 - 12:27 pm

  I was so impressed with this cars value that i traded in a 2012 elantra base model for a 2013 elantra with the prefered package that offers more standard features.my selling dealer whom i purchased my previous elantra from gave me a great deal that i couldnt refuse.this 2013 basically rides the same as my other elantra that i traded in however i have noticed that this 2013 elantra was built at the alabama plant and seems to be built a little better than the other elantra i had which was built at the ulsan plant.you can definitly tell the difference between the two.

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  Exceptional Value - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By paul2013 - May 11 - 10:03 am

  I purchased an Elantra GLS with the Preferred Package about a month ago. After extensive shopping, even with very little off the MSRP (this car is in high demand) the Elantra really does represent an exceptional value and in my opinion just outclasses the competition in terms of features and styling. I was concerned that it wouldnt have much pep since the engine is on the small side but it is more than adequate and I havent yet had the sensation of it being particularly under-powered.

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  Excellent Value! - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By kngschld - April 26 - 4:42 pm

  I have owned 8 cars so far in my lifetime, and this one is #1. The quality of materials is outstanding for this model type and the performance IS as advertised. I am currently getting exactly 33.1 mpg, and I drive about 50/50 city and highway. If I drive solely Highway, I get 38 mpg. This car also handles very vell. It takes turns more like a sports car than a compact. By the way, I used to drive a Nissan 300 with twin turbos, so yes, I do know how a sportscar should handle. All-in-all, I say that if you buy this car, I can guarantee that you will get the best value for your buck. Enjoy, and happy driving!

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  Great MPG - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
  By zippie2 - April 26 - 10:22 am

  Mine has a little over 14000 miles on it. I drove this car at the posted speed of 55 and got 52.5 mpg, so I cant complain my Jeep only got 16 on the road, so this was really a great improvement.

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  2013 Elantra is Fantastic - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By tjpavlik - April 25 - 7:05 pm

  Our 2013 Elantra GLS is now a week old and has 400 miles on the odometer. After dealer problems (I dont want a blue one!!!). We finally bought our silver one literally right off the truck from a different dealer. The styling both interior and exterior is fantastic. Inside it seems to be about the same size as our 2002 Sonata. It has a lot of cubby holes and places to stow stuff. The sound system sounds great: XM, IPOD, AUX & CD. (It even has AM/FM!) Air conditioning is cold and on the 4th fan setting is downright breezy. Heated seats are the only difference between the 2012 and the 2013. THE GAS MILEAGE IS AWESOME! Averaged 40.2 mpg on the highway on a short trip. (Loaded, no a/c)

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  WOW, What a GREAT car! - 2013 Hyundai Elantra
  By himpg1 - April 25 - 11:00 am

  After 4 weeks, and 1500+ miles, we are very happy! We bought from Earnhardt Hyundai in Scottsdale, AZ. Carl gave us a super deal, and we didnt have any of the normal games that dealers like to play. It was FUN buying the Elantra. We bought at the end of the month!!We get the 29/40 mpg and more! It takes common sense, and a conservative driving style. We bought a steel wheel and full size tire for a spare from Discount Tire for less than $150. A jack, lug wrench, and spare tie down at a salvage yard for $12. There is plenty of room for the full size spare! We drive up steep mountain grades at freeway speeds with no problem.

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  Best car Ive ever had - 1997 Hyundai Elantra
  By elalove - April 14 - 5:48 pm

  Ive owned my 1997 hyundai for 5 years-- I bought it with 116, 000kms on it and its at 270, 000 kms right now I originally paid 2500$ for it. This car is manual and I replaced the clutch in the first year because I was a new driver and I burnt it out and it only cost me 600$. In the winter I get through heavy snow that trucks cant even get through. Everyone who calls this car the little tug that could or a trooper is RIGHT! This is the most reliable, sweetest little car of all time. Im SO SO SO depressed that my baby is at the end of its life. in 5 years Ive had ZERO engine repairs (its a 15 year old car). I adore this thing!

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  Loving My Hyundai in Hawaii - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By 808hyundai - April 11 - 11:34 pm

  After doing research I drove a few cars which I will not name to save them embarrassment and settled on the Hyundai GLS (Desert Bronze w/Preferred Package) without reservation. Ive had the car for one month and 1000 miles. It continues to impress me as well as turn heads. Many people have asked me what kind of car Im driving or theyre surprised its a Hyundai. The car has a quiet interior, rides comfortably and drives great in the horrible Honolulu traffic, a definite plus! Surprisingly I am averaging 32 all purpose miles per gallon, even with the A/C on. I am thoroughly pleased with the car and everything it offers. The other compact cars in this class need to be worried!

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  1000 miles and love it - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By ferg48 - March 27 - 12:46 pm

  I compared all the cars in this class before deciding on the Elantra, including the Corolla, Civic, Mazda 3. The Elantra offered so much more for the money! While I wouldnt call it sporty by any means, it has a great ride and is responsive enough for me. I read a lot of people complaining about the "poor gas mileage" and cant figure that out. I am averaging about 32mpg with mainly city driving. On one 100mile highway trip, we got 39.2 mpg. Nothing to complain about!! Not sure how these people drive, but I am definitely not a "granny" behind the wheel. I am pleased so far

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  Love this car, only one beef - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
  By thehippie777 - March 26 - 4:33 pm

  I love everything about this car! The only beef I have is that I havent come all that close to getting 40mpg. This car blows all others similar models of different brands out of the water. Number one reason was, of course, the price! Well designed and easy to handle. Even the man in my life likes it.