1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra: Full Review
Updated: 12/17/09
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Optional antilock brakes
- Fuel economy
- Passenger room
- Dual airbags
Cons
- Passing power (automatic)
- Small trunk opening
- Noise
Vehicle Highlights
At 100.4 inches, the wheelbase of the front-drive subcompact was two inches longer than the prior Elantra's, and six inches longer than that of the mini Accent. Sedans and new station wagons came in base and upscale GLS trim, all with standard dual airbags. Antilock brakes were optional only for GLS versions. Sole engine was Hyundai's 130-horsepower, 1.8-liter 4-cylinder with dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Both 5-speed manual shift and a 4-speed automatic transmission were available.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Hyundai Elantra sedan 5-speed Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 40 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra.
Year to Year Changes
1997 Hyundai Elantra:
Except for revised interior fabrics, Hyundai's midlevel sedan continued as before.
1998 Hyundai Elantra:
Elantra saw no changes for 1998.
1999 Hyundai Elantra:
Elantra got modest nose and tail restyling, and replaced the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder with a 2.0-liter unit. The GLS model was dropped, but GL could be ordered with antilock brakes.
2000 Hyundai Elantra:
After nearly a year's absence, the uplevel GLS model returned, but entry-level GL trim was gone; so GLS was the sole model.
Our road test for the 1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Hyundai's second-generation Elantra took a giant leap forward in roominess, quiet running, and all-around competence on the road. Not only is this version quieter than the prior Elantra at highway speeds, but the engine becomes raucous only when pushed hard. Acceleration is good with either transmission, and passing power is brisk in around-town driving. On the downside, the automatic transmission shifts abruptly at times, and passing power above 60 mph is meager. Fuel economy is good. We averaged more than 25 mpg. The suspension absorbs most bumps neatly, providing a stable highway ride. Unfortunately, you must cope with an abundance of suspension and tire thumping. Steering feels a trifle loose, but an Elantra handles competently, maneuvering nimbly with good grip. Brakes have a solid pedal feel, but a panic stop in an Elantra without ABS produced plenty of tire squeal and even a threat to swerve. Visibility is clear in all directions. Head and leg room are generous in front for medium-sized adults. Backseat space is adequate, with acceptable head and leg room, but not enough width to hold three occupants comfortably. Sedans have passable trunk space, but a small opening, so loading of bulky items could be easier. The split-rear seatback on the GLS model folds for additional cargo space. The station wagon's rear seatback folds to create a flat cargo floor.
Value for the Money
Value-conscious shoppers might want to take a close look at this latest, greatly improved Elantra, which flaunts a friendly demeanor. Though not flawless, moderate secondhand prices can make it tempting.
Value-conscious shoppers might want to take a close look at this latest, greatly improved Elantra, which flaunts a friendly demeanor. Though not flawless, moderate secondhand prices can make it tempting.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Hyundai Elantra sedan 5-speed Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 40 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Hyundai Elantra includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Hyundai Elantra .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission slips or will not go into fourth gear, the end clutch probably needs to be replaced. (1996)
Automatic transmission:
Automatic transmissions may flare between second and third or downshift poorly. There is a modified transmission-control module available. (1996-97)
Check-engine light:
Check-engine light illumination on SOHC models might be caused by a problem with the transmission control module (TCM). Repair includes replacement if the TCM. (1996-99)
Hard starting:
Hard starting may be due to a cracked in-tank fuel line. (1996-97)
Timing belt:
Noise from the timing belt due to belt walking off of pulley and rubbing timing cover requiring replacement of the idler pulley. (1999-00)
Transmission problems:
If transmission sticks in 3rd, shifts poorly, or has harsh 1-2 shift, the pulse generator may need to be replaced. (1996-2000)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $565 |
| Alternator | $315 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $810 |
| Brakes | $170 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $295 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $355 |
| Exhaust System | $355 |
| Radiator | $390 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $595 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $195 |
Our price chart for this generation Hyundai Elantra details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2000 | |||
| Elantra | $1,900-2,400 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
| 1999 | |||
| Elantra | $1,600-2,000 | $1,100-1,300 | $200-300 |
| 1998 | |||
| Elantra | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 1997 | |||
| Elantra | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 1996 | |||
| Elantra | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Hyundai Elantra include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 100.4 | 100.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 174.0 | 175.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.9 | 66.9 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.9 | 58.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2458 | 2619 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 11.4 | 63.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.5 | 14.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.6 | 38.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.2 | 43.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.6 | 38.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.6 | 34.8 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Early Elantras carried a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder with dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, rated at 130 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard, and 4-speed automatic with electronic controls optional. In '99 Hyundai dropped the 1.8-liter in favor of a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. It made 140 horsepower and offered the same transmission options.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 140 | 133 | 5-speed manual: 24/33 4-speed automatic: 22/31 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 1.8 / 110 | 130 | 122 | 5-speed manual: 24/32 4-speed automatic: 23/31 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 25 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: South Korea
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Hyundai Elantra include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Elantra |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 3 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1996-97:
Evaporative emissions control system can apply excessive vacuum to fuel tank, resulting in minor tank distortion; small crack could develop, allowing fuel to escape.
1996-97:
Wipers may not operate, due to contamination.
1999 w/automatic transmission:
Pressure control solenoid-valve seals can allow transmission fluid to leak, resulting in slippage.
2000:
Intermittent low-speed engine stalling occurs if the mass airflow sensor electrical signal is interrupted due to engine vibration transmitted to the MAF sensor-connector wiring harness.
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