2006 Hyundai Elantra: Road Test
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2006 Hyundai Elantra ▼
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- MSRP: $13,865 -$16,115
- Invoice: $12,964 -$14,884
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Our road test for the 2006 Hyundai Elantra includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Hyundai Elantra from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Hyundai Elantra, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Hyundai Elantra help you decide if a 2006 Hyundai Elantra is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5 | 4.4 |
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 | 4.9 |
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 | 5.6 |
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.
QUIETNESS
| GLS sdn, man. | GLS sdn, auto. | GT hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.2 |
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 | 5.9 |
Ordinary but well-done, though some audio controls 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 | 5.5 |
Not midsize car spacious, but six-footers should have no complaints. Still, 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 | 3.9 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 7 | 4.7 |
Sedan's trunk isn't of class-leading size, but is 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 | 6.2 |
In features, comfort, and road manners, this Recommended pick 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | 52 | 56 | 52 |
Total Score: 54
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