2001 Hyundai Elantra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Hyundai's Elantra is larger than its Accent, but both are subcompact-class sedans. Elantra is redesigned for 2001 and measures 2.3 inches longer in wheelbase, 3.1 inches longer overall, and 1.2 inches taller than before. Little changed are curb weight, interior dimensions, the 2.0-liter 4-cyl engine, and manual or optional automatic transmission. Front side airbags are standard, ABS is optional. All Hyundais carry one of the industry's longest warranties: 5-years/60,000-miles basic, 10/100,000 powertrain. Due for '02 is a sportier-looking 4-dr GT hatchback with firmer suspension, rear disc brakes, and alloy wheels. Hyundai will also restore Elantra's wagon body style for 2002.

COMPETITION

A perennial favorite, the Honda Civic, is new and better than ever. We love the wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. New last year was the Ford Focus. Though we loved almost everything about the Focus, we were reluctant to rank it a Best Buy because it was new from the ground up. After a year of living with a ZTS model, we can say that the reliability is good. Focus ranks a notch below Civic in some areas but costs less. Topping the crowded Recommended list are the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys as they are better than the Civic in many ways. However, they are also the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Dodge Neon and Toyota Echo, the slightly-upscale Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege. If you are looking for a budget buy, the Hyundai Accent offers a lot for your dollar, however, it's not as refined as more-expensive competitors.