The following review is for a 2022 Model Year. There may be minor changes to current model you are looking at.
Introduction
With its angular styling and feature-packed spec sheet, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan with plenty of points in its favor. This lineup ranges from frugal to luxurious to two flavors of downright sporty, depending on the trim level.
For 2022, the long-awaited Elantra N joins the lineup with 276 horsepower from a turbo-4 and a buttoned-down suspension that was tuned on some of Germany's most demanding race courses.
Most Elantras make use of a 147-hp inline-4 and a continuously variable automatic transmission [CVT] aimed at delivering good fuel economy for a reasonable price, though decent steering and a comfortable ride elevate the Elantra above compact car norms. The Elantra Hybrid packs spectacular fuel economy without losing out on power and drivability.
Speaking of mpgs, they range from 33 mpg city, 43 highway, 37 combined for most versions to as high as 53/56/54 mpg for the Elantra Hybrid Blue. Predictably, the more powerful Elantra N Line asks for more fuel: figure 28/36/31 mpg with the optional 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox or 25/31/28 mpg with the standard 6-speed manual transmission.
Hyundai packs every Elantra with automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, and active lane control. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitors are optional on most trim levels.
The NHTSA rates the Elantra at five stars overall, with a four-star score for front-impact protection. The Limited trim level with its 'Good'? headlights was awarded a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, which noted that other versions don't offer as impressive nighttime lighting.
Lineup
The base Elantra SE checks off most commuter must-haves for $20,875. Its 8.0-inch touchscreen is equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it includes basic crash-avoidance technology plus power features. The SEL runs $22,125 and it adds upsized wheels, automatic climate control, and the ability to add more features such as a digital instrument cluster, heated front seats, and a wireless smartphone charging pad.
The $26,455 Elantra Limited drapes the cabin in leather and upgrades the infotainment system to a 10.3-inch screen, though Android and Apple users lose wireless connectivity and will need to carry a cable.
At $25,105, the Elantra N Line wears leather seats and 18-inch wheels, plus turbocharged power.
Hybrid models come in Blue and Limited flavors starting at about $24,000. The Elantra Blue Hybrid offers the best fuel economy of the bunch and includes heated seats and blind-spot monitors, plus a hands-free trunk release. The $29,275 Limited Hybrid adds adaptive cruise control and a 10.3-inch touchscreen.
At just under $33,000, the Elantra N throws in way more power and a far sportier suspension.
On all, a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty provides peace of mind.
Walkaround
Crisp lines outside give the Elantra a dashing appearance not matched by other compact cars. It's a sizzler in any configuration with its creased lines that vary by trim level. Carved and chamfered, the Elantra looks more like a concept car than a production model.
The fastback-like roofline descends toward a pert tail accentuated by bold taillights. Elantra N versions go for gold with special front and rear bumpers, upsized wheels, and zippy red accents. They're not subtle, but that's not the point here.
Look for a wide variety of paint hues ranging from brash orange to several shades of silver.
Interior
Inside, the Elantra offers a less-polarizing approach with a high-tech instrument panel that houses an 8.0-inch touchscreen on most versions, though an upsized 10.3-inch display paired with a digital instrument cluster is optional. A narrow strip silver trim below connects air vents, while climate controls are situated neatly below.
Elantra N models have an all-black interior with microsuede upholstery accented by contrasting blue stitching. All versions are loaded up with shiny black plastic that attracts fingerprints but cleans off easily enough with a microfiber rag.
Cabin space is excellent for a small car, with comfortable space up front for 6-foot passengers and nearly as much room in the rear. Back-seat riders are treated to around 38 inches of leg room, though the sloping roof cuts into head room a bit. The 14.2 cubic-foot trunk is on the big side for a compact sedan, too.
Driving Impression
How the Elantra goes about its business really depends on what's underhood.
Base models move along well enough with a smooth 4-cylinder engine that teams decently with a CVT that masquerades as an automatic transmission, albeit with infinite gear ratios. Highway passing requires a little planning ahead, but in-town users will find good response off the line.
The Elantra Hybrid swaps in a 1.6-liter inline-4 and an electric motor fed by a 1.3-kwh lithium-ion battery pack. Its 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission delivers crisp response, making it feel quicker than the base car.
Enthusiasts will appreciate the 201-hp turbocharged Elantra N Line, which is quick and balanced. Its 6-speed manual transmission is a joy to hustle through the gears, though a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional for those faced with grueling commutes.
This year's new Elantra N ups the ante with a 276-hp 2.0-liter turbo-4 mated to either a 6-speed manual or a race-style 8-speed wet dual-clutch automatic.
All versions handle well, though the higher-tech multi-link rear suspension squeezed under the Elantra Hybrid and Elantra N models offers better impact absorption and sharper handling with a more planted feel when hustled down a winding road.
Summary
From simple commuter to sporty choice, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra has a lot to offer. The Hybrid editions in particular put efficiency high up on the scale of priorities, along with safety and infotainment.
? By Andrew Ganz, with driving impressions from The Car Connection.