2023 Hyundai ELANTRA Review

The Hyundai Elantra is a practical option for everyday driving duties because of its competitive fuel economy, wealth of basic safety technology, and accessible creature comforts. It is also a choice that comes with a lot of stylish flair. We can enjoy the outward styling of the Korean small sedan as well as the variety of models it offers. Hyundai has created six different models, from the entry-level SE model to the Limited Hybrid, by combining and matching various mechanical components, including four-cylinder engines, turbochargers, electric motors, dual-clutch transmissions, and CVTs. The sporty N Line trim is part of the model lineup, but don't confuse it with the significantly more powerful N model, which we discuss separately. The Elantra is well-equipped and aesthetically pleasing overall, but it lacks the driving agility of top-tier small cars like the Mazda 3 and Honda Civic.

Modifications for 2023

For the 2023 model year, the Hyundai Elantra receives a number of small updates as well as one important modification: the removal of the manual transmission option for the N Line model, which is now only offered with a DCT. (dual-clutch transmission). Both the N Line and SELs with the Convenience Package now come standard with a 10.3-inch infotainment display and a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Additionally, the SEL Premium Package is no longer available, and SEL Convenience Package cars now come with 17-inch wheels rather than 16-inch ones.

Which Trim To Purchase?

The optimum combination of price and functionality is provided by the midrange SEL variant. A hands-free trunk release and SiriusXM are included as standard features above the SE. Additionally, there are more beneficial options available if you choose the SEL over the SE. For example, we would check the SEL Convenience package, which includes a 10.3-inch digital cluster in addition to the 10.3-inch infotainment system's center display, adaptive cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, a wireless smartphone charging pad, heated front seats, heated mirrors, and more.

Power & Performance

A normally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque is the standard non-hybrid Elantra powertrain. It is found under the hood of SE and SEL variants. By choosing the more athletic N Line model, the displacement is reduced to 1.6 liters and a turbocharger is added, producing a much livelier 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is also used in the hybrid vehicles, but it is coupled with an electric motor rather than a turbo, which produces more torque—195 pound-feet, or the same amount of horsepower as the N Line—instead of horsepower. While the N Line, Blue Hybrid, and Limited Hybrid models receive a DCT, the SE and SEL's base 2.0-liter engine is paired with a CVT. (dual-clutch transmission). Notably, the hybrids only have a six-speed DCT, while the N Line receives a seven-speed DCT. The performance-focused N, which we assess separately, is by far the enthusiast's favorite of the Elantra line. But those who find the price of such a car too much to bear might want to think about the more moderate N Line variant. We were thrilled with the N Line's quicker acceleration and deft handling after a brief test drive since they increased athleticism without compromising ride quality.

Fuel Economy

The 2.0-liter four-cylinder Elantra is predicted by the EPA to achieve up to 33 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway by 2023. 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder models offer estimations of up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the interstate. Elantra is the most fuel-efficient hybrid, with ratings of 53 city and 56 highway mpg. The Elantra hybrid only achieved 48 mpg on our 75 mph highway fuel-economy route as part of our rigorous testing process, while the non-hybrid Limited with the standard engine achieved 38 mpg. In contrast, a hybrid Corolla achieved 56 mpg during our highway test.

Interior & Comfort

The interior of the Elantra seems sufficiently futuristic to match its striking exterior. While the passenger side has a more understated style, the dashboard and center console surround the driver. From the steering wheel to the passenger-side door panel, a single LED strip runs parallel to the air vent that spans the dashboard. The Elantra competes with competitors with more interior space, such as the Nissan Sentra and Volkswagen Jetta, thanks to considerable passenger volume, especially in the back seat. Although it appears opulent in photographs, there is a lot of hard plastic inside, which is to be expected in a product of this price range. Six pieces of carry-on luggage fit within the trunk of the Elantra during our testing.

Infotainment

Both a second 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and an optional 10.3-inch digital gauge display protrude from the top of the Elantra's dashboard. An 8.0-inch center display and analog gauges for the instrument cluster make up the typical infotainment arrangement. Here, the newest infotainment system from Hyundai takes center stage. A Wi-Fi connection and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are also included as standard features. By speaking a few predetermined phrases, the driver can manage features like the climate control or the heated seats.

Safety

Many of the available driver-assistance systems are offered as standard. Visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for more details regarding the Elantra's crash test results. Important safety elements include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection

Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist

Available adaptive cruise control with lane-centering feature

Warranty & Coverage For Maintenance

Hyundai's famed 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is standard on the 2023 Elantra. The Elantra's corporate sibling, the Kia Forte, is the only rival that can match it in terms of standard warranty protection, though it should be noted that while Hyundai provides three years of free planned maintenance, Kia does not.

Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles

Complimentary maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles

Competitive Cars

Hyundai Elantra vs. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is consistently a class leader, and the most recent model is no different. The Civic, like the Elantra, provides excellent fuel efficiency, a smooth ride, sure-footed handling, a host of standard safety systems, and a user-friendly infotainment system. However, there are some significant variations. The Civic has a more luxurious interior and is offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles, whereas the Elantra is only available as a sedan. The Elantra, meanwhile, has a starting price that is nearly $2,000 cheaper than the Civic's and a longer powertrain guarantee. Both are excellent choices.

Hyundai Elantra vs. Kia Forte

Many of the Elantra's selling factors are also present in the Kia Forte. It is elegant, enjoyable to drive, economical at the pump, and covered by a lengthy guarantee. Even two of the Elantra's engines are available on the Forte. These sedans are, after all, corporate relatives. However, we advise taking a closer look at the Kia first. Despite starting at around $1,400 cheaper than the Hyundai, it has comparable equipment.