2012 Hyundai Elantra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.99/5 Average
117 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

After a complete redesign last year, the 2012 Hyundai Elantra gains an "Active Eco System" that modifies engine and transmission parameters at the push of a button to increase fuel economy by up to 7 percent. The names of option packages have also been changed.

Pros:
  • Comfortable and well-built cabin
  • Outstanding fuel economy on all models
  • Large trunk
  • Lots of features for the money
  • Distinctive styling.
  • Long warranty coverage
Cons:
  • Not as sporty as some rivals.
  • Limited rear headroom

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 117.00
  • First Hyundai, very pleased - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I dont usually write reviews, but after seeing all the reviews reporting poor gas mileage I felt like I had to say something. Ive got about 10K miles on my 2012 elantra. Just about a month ago I drove from Cleveland to Ann Arbor (~180 miles) and I averaged 41 mpg. Thats with speeds between 65-75 mph. When I first got the car I could get 29-30 in a city. However, Ive recently found it more fun to drive this stick shift car in a less-than-optimal way. I now average about 26-27 in the city but get to enjoy the car a little more. So getting at or above the estimated mpg is very possible. In addition, there is plenty of room in the interior of the car.

  • Good, not great! - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    So I purchased a new 2012 Elantra about 3 months ago. I have put 5,200 miles on the car so I thought it was time to write my review. The car is really good in some aspects such as exterior styling and smooth ride, but lacks in other areas. This car is a head turner, as I have had many people compliment or ask questions about it. The paint quality also seems good. Overall the car is worth the money (I hope). Overall this model of elantra has not been released long enough to attest to the reliability or longevity.

  • Regretful - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I purchased this car mainly for the fuel economy. My 60 miles per day of driving to and from work only get me 32 mpg. I did get 40 driving from Harrisburg, PA to Pittsburgh, though. My biggest disappointment about the car is the steering. I blow around on the highway when there are strong wind gusts. The handling is horrible and I feel like I cant even control my car. I feel unsafe. My tire also blew out while on the highway - and to my surprise there was no spare tire. I cant believe Hyundai doesnt make it standard to provide its customers with a spare! I regret buying the car and I would rather pay more money for gas in a less efficient car than drive a car that is unsafe.

  • Best value for the buck - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I get 38 mpg easily on highway but if you drive like maniac with aggresive driving style with frequent rapid acceleration then dont expect high fuel economy. I easily 32 in the city but then my commute to work is very small and most of the time car sits on Metra train parking lot.I do have one disappointment, the leather on the steering wheel is coming off and I have made a claim but looks like Hyundai is still working on a permanent solution and has told me that I will be contacted once the new steering wheel is shipped to the dealer for installation. Otherwise a superb car for the price. Kudos to Hyundai for learning from their mistakes to build a amazing machine.

  • Huge Disappointment - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I bought this car for one reason: fuel economy. I wanted a car that actually delivers 40 mpg on the highway. Imagine my disappointment that this car actually got 30.45 miles per gallon on a recent 200-mile trip. Tell me Im a bad driver or whatever, but 30.45 is a far cry from 40. Oh, Im right around 3,000 miles. This car replaced a 2003 Saturn L200 that was getting 30-32 mpg mostly in town with some highway mileage. Im extremely disappointed in this car. Wish Id read the reviews before buying.

  • Never again - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I have never gotten the 40 MPG touted by Hyundai. Best mileage is 33. Also the cloth seats are impossible to clean and Hyundai dealer wont try to clean the seat, they say it will cause a stain. When parking you cannot see the front end in relationship to the parking spot and the same with the rear. It is hard to get into the front seats without hitting your head. I am only 52". The car did not come with a spare that had to be purchased fo $300.00. They include a pump for flats but if you have a side puncture, it wont work. This is my second Hyundai and I am planning on selling it as soon as possible. Bluetooth is not compatible with all phones.

  • Awesome Over All - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    I bought my 2012 Elantra Limited at the end of Sept 2011 last year. Over all its been a great car. I fell in love with the design as well as its gas mileage. The gas mileage in my opinion is not what they say it is. I wish it where better to be honest. But, yes there is a but.... Its not bad like most cars built with what options I have. Hyundai is the old Toyota. Just a well built nice looking car.

  • Gas mileage - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    This car does not live up to the 29/40 mpg it says it is ssuppose to get. The trip meter will consistently indicate mpg about 4 to 5 more than what you are really getting. You watch the trip meter and think great, I am getting 40 mpg. Then you fill up and find out you really only got 35 mpg. Dont get me wrong it is still good but should be easily correctable. Advertised mpg on the window sticker are verified by the government. Somebody is wrong. Aside from that the car is awesome. I quit riding Yamaha motorcycles because the speedometers were always off by about 4 miles per hour. This is not new technology.

  • Excellent Value! - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    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!

  • POOR GAS MILAGE! - 2012 Hyundai Elantra
    By -

    This car does not live up to the 29/40 mpg it says it is ssuppose to get. We have been getting more like 22/32 mpg. Buyer beware!

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