Consumer review 2012 Hyundai Elantra
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| 2012 Hyundai Elantra exterior |
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| 2012 Hyundai Elantra interior |
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| 2012 Hyundai Elantra back seat |
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| 2012 Hyundai Elantra trunk |
Vehicle Overview /by cars.com
Redesigned last year, the Elantra compact car arrives at a time when automakers are redoubling their efforts in this segment. With seating for up to five, the Elantra's looks and fuel efficiency — it's rated at 40 mpg on the highway — make it a compelling entrant in the segment. Competitors include the Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze.
New for 2012
On automatic-transmission Elantras, a new Active Eco System is designed to improve real-world gas mileage by up to 7 percent by smoothing throttle response. The 2012 Elantra also gets a horn with improved sound and new steering calibration for better straight-line feel. A roadside-assistance kit is optional.
Exterior
Even though it's a sedan, the Elantra has the look of a coupe. The roofline slopes gracefully down to the trunk lid, and the rising belt line makes a sharp upturn at the rear or the car, giving the rear side windows a triangular shape. This diminishes backseat-passenger visibility, but it gives the car a distinctive and sporty shape.
The Elantra has a thin upper grille and, below the front bumper, a larger opening that's reminiscent of the smiley-face grilles on a number of Mazdas. Pronounced fender flares and dramatic sheet-metal creases along the sides of the car enhance its visual appeal. Other exterior features include:
- 15-inch steel wheels standard; 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels optional
- Standard heated side mirrors
- Available automatic headlights
- Available power moonroof
Interior
Sweeping dashboard lines and a center console that rises to meet the dash lend a modern appearance. A high-resolution touch-screen navigation system that incorporates a backup camera is optional, and the screen is mounted high on the dash. Other interior features include:
- Standard cloth seats; heated leather seats optional
- Standard remote keyless entry
- Standard trip computer
- CD stereo with USB and auxiliary inputs
- Standard 60/40-split folding backseat
- Large 14.8-cubic-foot trunk
- Optional air conditioning
- Optional cruise control
- Optional Bluetooth connectivity
Under the Hood
The Elantra is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that's rated at 148 horsepower, and it gets an EPA-estimated 29/40 mpg city/highway whether you get the standard six-speed manual or the optional six-speed automatic. Mechanical features include:
- Uses regular gas
- Front-wheel drive
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- All-disc antilock brakes
- Side-impact airbags for the front seats
- Front and rear side curtain airbags
- Electronic stability system
- Tire pressure monitoring system
Our verdict
Koreans are really getting it just right in last few years. Their model range grows every year and their cars are getting better and better. The 2012 Hyundai Elantra is clear example of what to expect from Asian competitors in near future - well designed and well build reliable vehicles.
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