2007-2008 Hyundai Elantra: Road Test

Acceleration is adequate with either transmission, but far from snappy. Hyundai claimed 0-60 mph acceleration time of 8.8 seconds with the manual gearbox, which uses a slick, precise shifter. Automatic is smooth and responsive. Fuel economy is more appealing. An SE sedan with manual shift averaged 26.8 mpg. Hyundai recommends regular-grade gasoline. Elantra scores well in ride comfort compared to class rivals, abetted by a stout structural feel. Although the suspension absorbs most small bumps easily, an Elantra floats somewhat over large bumps and dips at highway speed. The suspension allows some cornering lean, but tires furnish good dry-road grip. New electric power steering is quick, but feels a tad light. Elantras deliver fine stopping control and brake-pedal feel. An Elantra's engine is a bit noisy at high rpm, but never unpleasant. Some wind rush occurs around exterior mirrors, but road/tire noise is impressively low for this class. Gauges are large and clear. Climate and audio controls are simple and handy. Plush cloth upholstery, attractive plastics, and many soft-touch surfaces belie the Elantra's modest new-car pricing. So does its classy blue dashboard lighting. Front seats offer adequate headroom and legroom, though taller folks may want more of both. Wide-ranging seat/steering-wheel adjustments enhance driver comfort; SE and 2007 Limited models included a telescopic steering wheel. Visibility is slightly hampered aft and to the right-rear. Rear occupants get adult-size headroom and legroom, though entry/exit is slightly tight for larger adults. Height-adjustable head restraints and a fold-down center armrest are comfort bonuses. An Elantra promises more trunk space than the class norm, but the slim opening and sickle-type trunklid hinges compromise its utility. A 60/40 split folding rear seat has been standard, but backrests don't lay flat and they leave only a small pass-through for long items. Generous small-item storage includes numerous bins, slots, and cubbies.

Value for the Money
Elantras match any class rival for refinement, space, and comfort. Hyundai's compact sedan also beats most of them for safety with standard front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and ABS. A robust feel and Hyundai's strong warranty also make Elantra well worth considering. New-car prices have been reasonable, and resale value falls well short of major rivals, so Elantras may be attractively priced on the used-car market.