2003 Hyundai Elantra: Road Test
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2003 Hyundai Elantra ▼
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- MSRP: $12,899 -$15,249
- Invoice: $11,873 -$14,030
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Our road test for the 2003 Hyundai Elantra includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Hyundai Elantra from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Hyundai Elantra, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Hyundai Elantra help you decide if a 2003 Hyundai Elantra is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
Test manual-transmission models did 0-60 mph in 8.4 sec, brisk for a subcompact. Automatic-transmission versions have only adequate pickup, though the transmission is reasonably smooth and responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 6.5 |
Test manual transmission Elantras averaged 25.2-25.9 mpg. Haven't yet measured with automatic, but EPA ratings are only one mpg lower.
RIDE QUALITY
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
GTs ride about the same as GLS, despite their "sport" suspension. Both surprisingly composed for entry-level subcompacts absorbing most rough stuff with ease. Some jiggle on freeways, but not severe.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
GLS is dull but competent, cornering with noticeable body lean but good stability. Non-ABS test car showed moderate dive and good modulation in hard stops, but also early left-front-wheel locking. GT's suspension again makes little difference.
QUIETNESS
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Engine has unpleasant high-rpm snarl. Tire noise noticeable on coarse pavement. Test GLS had minor wind leak from driver door.
CONTROLS
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Ordinary but well-done. Steering wheel may not tilt high enough for some. A few cheap plastic bits spoil basically nice cabin decor. Test GLS had a buzz in the steering-column area.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.8 |
Not midsize-car spacious, but 6-footers will have no complaints, though tall drivers might like more rearward seat travel. Height-adjustable seat is standard. Visibility fine in sedan, a bit better in sloped-tail hatchback.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Good head and leg room for two, plus adequate foot space. Narrowish rear-door thresholds don't severely impede entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 6 | 3.8 |
Sedan's trunk isn't of class-leading size, but adequately roomy. Hatchback combines versatility with 4-dr convenience.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
In features, comfort, and even road manners, Elantra is a budget alternative to the class-leading but costlier Honda Civic and Ford Focus. However, cars from this South Korean automaker haven't yet earned a reputation for long-term reliability, and their resale values are low.
Total Score
| GLS, man. | GLS, auto. | GT, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47 | 45 | 51 | 47.2 |
Total Score: 48
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