In this age of fluctuating oil and gas prices, those of us who prefer driving large sedans, muscle coupes, light trucks or sports utility vehicles have-- at the very least-- thought about trading in our gas guzzlers for more economical models. If you are like me, that thought quickly leaves your mind because you just don't think driving a a sub-compact could be comfortable, let alone, fun. Hyundai has found away to make both possible.The 2009 Elantra is an impressive performer and it's green, to boot. Listed as a PZEV (partial zero emissions vehicle), my test model exceeded my expectations on the road. I was pleasantly surprised by the Elantra's relatively smooth acceleration considering the small four cylinder engine. I was even more impressed by how the car handles on the road.
In size and stature, the Elantra resembles many of its direct competitors. There is nothing to get overly excited about and nothing to really criticize. There are seven available exterior colors and two available interior colors.
The EPA classifies the Elantra as a mid-sized car. That puts it in the same category with the Cadillac CTS, BMW 5-Series and Acura RL. Clearly, the Elantra doesn't compete with any of those cars, all of which are larger and more powerful. The Elantra would be better classified as a compact where it would join the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3. knowing that the Elantra has a small four cylinder engine, you dodn't expect much in terms of power. Hyundai rates the power plant in my PZEV test model at 132 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. you won't be able to do a lot of spirited driving in this car, but you do get a solid, steady ride on the highway. The car is also good on gas. EPA fuel economy estimates are 25 MPG/City and 33 MPG/Highway. I drove 133 miles in city conditions over my week in the test model, using only 5.5 gallons of gas. That worked out to 24 MPG.
Standard features on the Elantra are plentiful and some of the features surprised me.
Hyundai offers the Elantra in three trims: GLS, SE and Touring with starting prices ranging from just over $14,000 to just under $18,000.
Appearance
In size and stature, the Elantra resembles many of its direct competitors. There is nothing to get overly excited about and nothing to really criticize. There are seven available exterior colors and two available interior colors.Power
The EPA classifies the Elantra as a mid-sized car. That puts it in the same category with the Cadillac CTS, BMW 5-Series and Acura RL. Clearly, the Elantra doesn't compete with any of those cars, all of which are larger and more powerful. The Elantra would be better classified as a compact where it would join the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3. knowing that the Elantra has a small four cylinder engine, you dodn't expect much in terms of power. Hyundai rates the power plant in my PZEV test model at 132 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. you won't be able to do a lot of spirited driving in this car, but you do get a solid, steady ride on the highway. The car is also good on gas. EPA fuel economy estimates are 25 MPG/City and 33 MPG/Highway. I drove 133 miles in city conditions over my week in the test model, using only 5.5 gallons of gas. That worked out to 24 MPG. Comfort
The Elantra cabin provides a nice driving environment. Seats are comfortable and include the usual manual adjustments for sliding forward, backward and reclining. The test model had the standard cloth seating surfaces but leather is available. Front leg room is more than adequate and rear leg room is not bad. Another pleasant surprise for those who think smaller car means less roominess.
Features
Standard features on the Elantra are plentiful and some of the features surprised me. I expect to find electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and air conditioning on any vehicle. I did not expect to find things like a tire pressure monitoring system, power locks, power windows, and power heated side view mirrors standard. Another surprise was the XM satellite radio, also standard on the sound system. Hyundai provides free activation and the first three months of your subscription.
Two disappointments are the iPod connection to the stereo and the optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system. My test model had a USB connector for the iPod but in order for your music machine to communicate with the system, you must purchase a special connector from Hyundai which costs $30. The Bluetooth hands-free phone system is a nice touch for a car in this class but pairing my phone with the system was far too complicated. The pairing process is accomplished using voice commands and the system often does not process the commands, no matter how loudly and clearly you speak them. Once paired, the system works seamlessly and it automatically detects your phone when in range, providing a clear voice message to warn you of an incoming call. You just push the button and start talking.
Summary
The Hyundai Elantra combines practical size and efficient power with good comfort and better than expected features. Match all of that with what Hyundai calls "America's Best Warranty," including 5 years or 60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper coverage and powertrain coverage through 10 years or 100,000 miles and you have a real winner.
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