The era of cars may be over as sport utility vehicles are all the rage today. Nevertheless, there are certain sedans that have survived this transition and continue to be very popular. This is the case with the Hyundai Elantra, a bold and highly competitive model. It must be said that the Korean manufacturer has gone all out in terms of both design and mechanics. Ultimately, the Elantra is also one of the most advanced cars in terms of technology in its category.
Although the current Elantra is still quite new and doesn't need much tweaking, the Korean manufacturer has still allowed for some improvements for 2024. The sedan benefits from some aesthetic enhancements and receives a higher-quality interior finish.
Range and Price
As I mentioned earlier, Hyundai has made no compromises when it comes to the Elantra, which is why it offers one of the widest and most diverse ranges in its category. It all starts with the gasoline version, which starts at $24,496. Then there's the hybrid version at $32,996. The Korean sedan is also available in an N Line version at $33,596, a model that offers style and performance with some affordability. Finally, there's the Elantra N, which sits at the top of the range starting from $40,196. This one offers breathtaking performance.
Category and Competition
Normally, I would tell you that the Hyundai Elantra has all the necessary assets to succeed and compete in its category. Unfortunately, there are two cars in this segment whose reputation is so strong that the Elantra has practically no chance of surpassing them in terms of sales. You will have understood that I am referring here to the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla. However, if we overlook sales figures, the Elantra is the big winner in its category. In my opinion, it's a car that gives you more value for your money than the competition.
Rivals: Honda Civic, Kia Forte, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta
Design and Technology
The Hyundai Elantra 2024 boasts a unique and provocative style. It doesn't appeal to everyone, but I'm one of those who have a penchant for vehicles with bold designs. The front of the Korean sedan is very aggressive with slim headlights and very angular shapes. The car's profile is dynamic and very stylish. There's a particular design element on the side with shapes that sink into the bodywork. The rear of the car is more modern and elegant. It's certain that you'll get an even sportier finish with the N Line and N versions, but the Elantra is anything but an ordinary car even in its most stripped-down version.
Interior of the Korean sedan is elegant and bold once again. The design is focused on the driver, and I must say I particularly like the style of the steering wheel. It's different from what we've been used to in the past and especially different from what we find elsewhere. You can feel that the assembly is better than before, and the quality of materials has been improved this year, making the Korean sedan even more appealing.
The Hyundai Elantra comes with a true technological arsenal, starting with its digital instrumentation. The manufacturer has made excellent choices such as the Bose sound system found in certain versions. The sedan also benefits from premium ambient lighting, significantly enhancing the overall model experience. The Elantra's multimedia system is smooth and very responsive. It's also intuitive and easy to use. The driving assistance technologies are precise without being too intrusive.
Performance
If you like to have choices, you'll be served with the Hyundai Elantra, which offers four options in terms of mechanics. It all starts with the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, which serves as the entry-level mechanic. This engine delivers 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, which is more than enough for the Korean manufacturer's sedan. It's paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. Next up is the hybrid version, which combines a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total power output of 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This version is by far the most economical of the bunch, with an average consumption of 4.8 L/100 km in the city and 4.5 L/100 km on the highway.
The 2024 Hyundai Elantra N Line is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine produces 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. In this version, the Korean sedan is capable of going from 0-100 in 7.7 seconds. It offers an ideal balance between sportiness and elegance. If you want to experience the ultimate driving experience in an Elantra, there's the N version. Here, we get a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. This version offers a total power output of 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The best part is that you have the option to choose between a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Hyundai Elantra N can go from 0-100 in less than 5.3 seconds with the automatic transmission, which is seriously quick for a compact sedan.
Weak Points
No all-wheel drive! The trunk isn't particularly spacious.
Strengths
It's an elegant, enjoyable-to-drive car, and it doesn't lack anything in terms of options.
Signature Element
The Hyundai Elantra stands out for its boldness.
Closing Words
In a world where reputation would have no influence, I can assure you that the Hyundai Elantra would be the most popular car in its category. That's why you should strongly consider it for your next purchase.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
