The 2011 Hyundai Elantra was well received and the warm reception is carried over to the 2012 model. Many people say that the 2012 Hyundai Elantra looks so good that many people will think that you paid a lot for it. However, it is actually affordable, making it more desirable!
There are many cars that can compete with the Hyundai Elantra. The market is stiff with other cars. However, critics think that the Elantra will maintain its ground, thanks to its friendly price and groundbreaking design. The car is priced at $15,000, and for a car with a lot of features this is a good buy.
Its features included stylish body and interiors, good performance and very reliable. Many people agree that the Elantra outshines its competitors by miles. The Elantra is good-looking.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Compact | Base Price: $16,445.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.8 gallons (48 liters) | MPG: 29 city / 40 hwy |
| Length: 178.3 in. (452 cm) | Width: 69.9 in. (177 cm) |
| Height: 56.5 in. (143 cm) | Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 2661 lbs (1207 kg) | Ground Clearance: 5.5 in. (13.9 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 14.8 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 16-valve D-CVVT inline-4 | Displacement: 1797 cc |
| Horsepower: 148 HP | Max RPM: 6500 RPM |
| Torque: 131 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 8.5 seconds* | 1/4 Mile: 16.4 seconds* |
| Option:Elantra Limited* | MSRP: $20,445; MPG: 29 city / 40 hwy |
Performance
The 2012 Elantra has very good fuel efficiency ratings with 29/40 mpg city/highway and unlike other cars, consumers won’t need to upgrade any trims to get these figures. The 2012 model also has the Eco Assist to help the driver increase fuel economy by up to 7%. Reviews also note that the Elantra braking is good and sensitive steering. It has a modestly powered engine though. However, this is not a sporty car, and it is made for comfort. It has a 1.8-four cylinder engine which is also present on the 2011 model. It has 158 horsepower and 131 pound feet of torque. The automatic transmission now has a six-speed variant but manual transmission is still standard. The gears shift quite smoothly and the engine is very smooth. The brakes for this car are very solid as well.
Interior & Exterior
The exterior is what grabs you when you first see the 2012 Elantra. It looks like a coupe. It’s stylish and it’s sexy but then again, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those with conservative aesthetic tastes which can opt for the designs that the Forte and Cruze have to offer.
The interior is impressive as well, equipped with a navigation system, a rearview camera, heated seats (first for an affordable car) and Bluetooth connectivity. It offers a lot of room, especially out in the front seats where tall people can still sit comfortably: plus points for a small car. The leather seats add that luxe points for the car too. The steering wheel comes with a tilt and telescopic models. The stereo system will make any music lover happy. The car also features USB ports as well, for your iPod or any other mp3 player. The Hyundai Elantra offers up to 14.8 cubic feet of space for your cargo but the seats can be folded.
The Competition
It has actually one of the biggest cargo spaces for its class: the Kia Forte (MSRP $14,995; 25 city / 32 hwy) has 14.7 cu.ft while the Honda Civic (MSRP $15,805; 28 city / 36 hwy) has 12.5 cubic feet of space. However, this car does not have a spare tire to reduce fuel economy. It only has a tire inflator kit.
Safety & Reliability
Hyundai Elantra is one of the safest and most reliable cars out there in the market. It has the driver and front passenger airbags, side impact airbags, curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management and a tire pressure monitoring system. It also offers the most comprehensive warranties with the 60,000 mile/ five year new vehicle warranty, whichever is first.
Overall Rating
75 out of 100
What others say:
“40 mpg; a sleek, sophisticated look; and even more value for the money confirm that this little sedan has officially left the Corolla in the dust.”Car Connection
“Elantra’s steering is accurate with good feel, but it seems a bit heavy just off center. The handling never quite manages to feel sporty, but Elantra is well behaved with stable and predictable manners. Brakes are strong with good pedal feel.”Consumer Guide
“The redesigned Elantra is stylish and competent. The new car uses a 1.8-liter engine mated to a smooth six-speed automatic and returned very good fuel economy in our tests…”MSN-Auto Consumer Guide
“Outstanding fuel economy on all models; lots of features for the money; comfortable and well-built cabin; large trunk; long warranty coverage; distinctive styling.”Edmunds
“If you’re looking for a compact sedan with a sporty design, excellent fuel economy and loads of safety and tech features at a lower cost than comparably-equipped competitors, then the Hyundai Elantra should be on your test-drive list.”KBB
