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Road Test

The latest version of the Elantra feels like a more grown-up car than the model it replaces. It has a sleek and easy-to-use infotainment system, a well-tuned transmission, gets impressive fuel economy, and has a relatively roomy interior for the class. The hybrid version is the best choice, not only for its superb fuel economy, but its better ride and handling.

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New Models Predicted Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Optional
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Standard

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Optional
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Standard

Hyundai vs. Other New Car Brands

Hyundai vs. Other New Car Brands

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Optional
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Standard

Small sedans/hatchbacks Ratings

$22,125 - $35,850
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CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$23,800 - $28,600
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CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$20,500 - $24,500
economy-icon
CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$24,250 - $45,895
economy-icon
CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction

In Test

$28,950 - $33,150
economy-icon
EPA MPG 49 mpg
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    sedan
Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
Front
Engines Available
  • 1.6-liter 4 turbo (201 hp)
  • 1.6-liter 4 hybrid (139 hp)
  • 2-liter 4 (147 hp)
  • 2-liter 4 turbo (276 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 7-speed sequential
  • 6-speed sequential
  • CVT
  • 8-speed sequential
  • 6-speed manual
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle
  • Basic 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Drivetrain 10 years/100,000 miles
  • Corrosion 7 years/unlimited miles
  • Roadside Aid 5 years/unlimited miles
  • Maintenance 3 years/36,000 miles
Model History
2021-
Current Generation

The redesigned for 2021 Elantra got a slightly roomier interior and a more sophisticated infotainment system. The standard engine is a 147-hp four-cylinder teamed with a continuously variable transmission, which together give quick acceleration and commendable fuel economy for the compact class. A hybrid powertrain is available and got an impressive 48 mpg overall in our tests. Handling is nimble but the ride is a bit stiff and the engine can get noisy. Seat comfort is so-so unless buyers get the uplevel Limited trim, and the low stance makes access a bit awkward. The infotainment system is easy to use and features wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity with the 8-inch touch screen. FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, and RCTW are standard. A high-performance 276-hp turbo N is new for 2022.

2017-2020
2017 Redesign Year

The redesigned Elantra is relatively roomy, sparing with fuel, and features intuitive controls. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder returned an excellent 33 mpg overall in our tests but delivers leisurely acceleration and buzzes unpleasantly as revs increase. The Eco version feels more responsive but comes at a $3,000 price premium. Although handling is secure, there isn't much driving excitement. The ride is mostly unobjectionable, but sharp bumps tend to come through noticeably. Road noise is elevated as well. Inside, the front seats in our tested SE are short on lumbar support, though the power seat in the Limited is better. Active safety features and a Sport version with a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder are available. 
For 2020, the Elantra got a freshening that included suspension tweaks that improved ride comfort, and more sound insulation which reduced engine noise. The six-speed automatic has been replaced by a continuously variable transmission (CVT). In addition, all trims come standard with forward collision warning, city speed automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist.



2011-2016
2011 Redesign Year
Between the 2011 and 2015 the Elantra was one of the more stylish compact sedans. The car was well-equipped for the price. It was also fuel efficient with 29 mpg overall. Handling is nimble and secure and the ride is reasonably comfortable. Road noise, however, is pronounced. The interior is relatively roomy with a decent rear seat, but the low stance and curvy roofline make access a bit challenging. Controls are very well laid out and easy to use and Bluetooth connectivity for phone and music is built-in for most versions. Hatchback models have added cargo utility but have a tighter back seat, a stiffer ride and are noisier.
2007-2010
2007 Redesign Year
Although relatively competitive against its peers at the time, the 2007 to 2010 Elantra was a basic transportation, nothing more nothing less. If you're considering buying one, make sure it's from 2008 or later with optional stability control, which came only on SE versions. Side crash test results, as performed by the IIHS, were marginal. Lacking agility, the car is boring to drive. High points included a relatively roomy interior and easy to use controls. Acceleration is rather leisurely and the engine gets noisy when revved. On the other hand, the ride was compliant enough and not too noisy. Fuel economy of 27 mpg overall was decent for that vintage.