2005 Hyundai Elantra: Road Test
Archived Review
2005 Hyundai Elantra ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $13,299 -$15,699
- Invoice: $12,302 -$14,517
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Hyundai Elantra
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2005 Hyundai Elantra includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Hyundai Elantra from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Hyundai Elantra, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Hyundai Elantra help you decide if a 2005 Hyundai Elantra is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5 | 4.1 |
Test manual-transmission models did 8.4 sec 0-60 mph, brisk for the class. Automatic-transmission versions have only adequate pickup, though the transmission is reasonably smooth and responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Test manual-transmission Elantras averaged 25.2-27.8 mpg. Haven't yet measured with automatic, but expect slightly less.
RIDE QUALITY
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.6 |
GTs and GLS hatchback ride about the same as GLS sedan, despite their sport-tuned suspension. Both surprisingly composed for entry-level compacts, absorbing most rough stuff with ease. Some jiggle on freeways, but not severe.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Elantra 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. Sport suspension again makes little difference.
QUIETNESS
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
Engine has unpleasant high-rpm snarl. Tire noise noticeable on coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Ordinary but well-done, though some controls on available CD audio system are too small. A few cheap plastic bits spoil basically nice cabin decor.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Not midsize-car spacious, but 6-footers will have no complaints, though tall drivers might like more rearward seat travel and steering wheel may not tilt high enough for some. Height-adjustable driver seat is standard. Visibility fine in sedan, a bit better in sloped-tail hatchback.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Good head and leg room for two, plus adequate foot space. Narrowish rear-door thresholds don't severely impede entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 6 | 3.9 |
Sedan's trunk isn't of class-leading size, but adequately roomy. Hatchback combines versatility with 4-dr convenience. Interior fitted with several handy bins.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
In features, comfort, and even road manners, Elantra is a budget alternative to the class-leading but costlier Honda Civic, Ford Focus, and Mazda 3.
Total Score
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 52 | 51 | 55 | 48.6 |
Total Score: 53
Scores for all Compact Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
