There was a time when small, affordable automobiles were criticized for their uninspired looks, shoddy interiors, and lackluster performance. Hyundai has helped change this over the last decade by producing automobiles that far surpass expectations. The 2024 Elantra is an excellent example. This is a sleek little car that prioritizes interior space, model diversity, and value. It also gets a considerable series of improvements this year, making it an even more tempting choice for a compact car.
Engine and more..
The standard powertrain for the non-hybrid Elantra features a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque in SE and SEL models. For those seeking a more spirited drive, the N Line model offers a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. Hybrid variants utilize a 1.6-liter engine paired with an electric motor, offering slightly lower horsepower at 139 but increased torque at 195 pound-feet, matching that of the N Line. The SE and SEL models come with a CVT, while the N Line, Blue Hybrid, and Limited Hybrid models are equipped with a DCT.
While the Hyundai Elantra might not be the epitome of excitement, its standout feature lies in its remarkable fuel efficiency. This enhanced efficiency in this vehicle is likely attributed to its smaller wheels and reduced onboard equipment, resulting in a lighter curb weight compared to other variants.
Interior
Coming towards interior the design of the dashboard and center console envelops the driver, while adopting a more minimalist approach on the passenger’s side. A solitary LED strip traces along the dashboard-wide air vent, extending from the steering column to the passenger’s door panel.
The spaciousness of the interior, particularly in the rear seat, provides ample room for passengers, enabling the Elantra to compete effectively with larger counterparts like the Sentra and Volkswagen Jetta. Despite appearing upscale in photographs, the Elantra’s interior is not as luxurious in reality, with noticeable amounts of hard plastic, which is expected within its price range. During our evaluation, we found that the Elantra accommodated six carry-on suitcases comfortably within its trunk.
Moving towards infotainment system Elantra offers a choice between a 10.3-inch digital gauge display and an 8.0-inch center display with analog gauges. Additionally, there’s a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen positioned atop the dashboard. Hyundai’s latest infotainment system takes the spotlight, boasting standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Voice recognition functionality enables drivers to control various settings such as climate control and heated seats effortlessly. While a six-speaker stereo comes standard, limited and N-Line trims upgrade to an eight-speaker Bose system for enhanced audio experience.
Safety features
The Elantra comes packed with an array of driver-assistance features that are readily available as standard options. These features are designed to enhance safety and peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. One notable standard safety feature of the Elantra is automated emergency braking, which includes pedestrian detection capabilities. This feature is invaluable in potentially hazardous situations, as it can autonomously apply brakes to mitigate or prevent collisions, even alerting drivers to pedestrians in their vicinity.
Another standard feature that contributes to safer driving experiences is lane-departure warning combined with lane-keeping assist. This technology actively monitors the vehicle’s position within its lane and provides alerts or corrective actions to help prevent unintentional lane departures, thereby reducing the risk of accidents caused by drifting out of lane.
For drivers seeking even more advanced safety capabilities, the Elantra offers available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature. This system not only maintains a set speed but also adjusts it dynamically based on traffic conditions, while also assisting with steering to help keep the vehicle centered within its lane. This comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features underscores Hyundai’s commitment to prioritizing safety in its vehicles, offering drivers enhanced confidence and security on the road.
Exterior
The Elantra boasts a striking appearance characterized by a sharply sloped hood leading to a sleek grille. This distinctive angular design is further enhanced by the inclusion of sleek LED headlights featuring matching daytime running lights. While LED taillights are reserved for the top trim, the brake light bar appears almost recessed, with the trunk lid slightly protruding above.
The roof gently slopes akin to a coupe’s, with the option for a power sunroof on higher trims. Starting with 15-inch wheels as standard, the Elantra upgrades to 16-inch wheels for the SEL and 17-inch wheels for the Limited trim. Additionally, at the highest trim level, the traditional black exterior accents are replaced with a sophisticated dark chrome finish.
What’s new?
Hyundai’s compact car has undergone a facelift, sporting a more defined front end, refreshed exterior lighting, and fresh wheel designs. The lineup now offers a range of new color options, such as Exotic Green and Ultimate Red, adding a splash of vibrancy. Notably, Hyundai has elevated safety standards across the Elantra range by including rear side-impact airbags and a rear-seat seatbelt reminder as standard features.
Furthermore, standard safety features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert have been enhanced. Now, these features communicate with the driver through haptic pulses in the steering wheel, providing a tactile and intuitive alert system to help ensure a safer driving experience.
In this regard, the car emerges as a highly attractive option, boasting commendable safety features and appealing interior and exterior designs. It garners a solid rating of 8, satisfying the majority of buyers’ criteria. Economically speaking, it starts at $22,775 and can reach up to $30,600, varying based on the chosen trim and optional features.
