Hyundai Elantra Sedan Review

Design and Engineering

Design and Engineering

 Good

Styling is a big improvement over the previous model - styled in a way to appeal to a more mature buyer, unlike most Small cars which can feel like they're aimed predominantly at Gen Y.
Not so good

Designed in California, USA. and it looks like it (we prefer fellow Korean Kia Cerato’s more youthful styling). Chassis is a generation behind the newer i30 hatch.
Interior and Styling

Interior and Styling

 Good

Easy to get comfortable behind the wheel with good space up front and adequate rear legroom. Large boot space.
Not so good

Leather steering wheel feels like vinyl? The swoopy body styling comes at the expense of second row headroom. We're not so sure about the retro-styled heating & air conditioning screen in the centre console with the bright blue back-lighting at night.
Performance

Performance

 Good

Power would be sufficient for most users and more than enough for the chassis.
Not so good

2.0L Petrol engine is getting long in the tooth and feels it. Both transmissions, 5-speed manual and 4-speed auto are only average.
Ride and Handling

Ride and Handling

 Good

The ride and handling is fine when driven leisurely. The suspension is comfortable, and it's relatively quiet inside the cabin.
Not so good

Electrically-assisted steering offers very limited feedback as to what’s going on between the tyres and the road. The i30 hatch is a generation ahead of the Elantra you can feel it on the road.
Buying and Owning

Buying and Owning

 Good

The standard equipment list shames Europeans and a number of Japanese competitors PLUS a generous five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Not so good

Buyers are asked to pay extra for more airbags in SX base model (it comes standard with 2) when fellow Korean Small car (Cerato) has 6 standard airbags for less money.