2017 Hyundai Elantra Review

2017 Hyundai Elantra - Redesigned for 2017, Elantra jumps to the top of the class.

By: Mark Bilek

Hyundai's compact Elantra is completely redesigned for 2017 with fresh styling, three new engines and a host of tech and safety features. Elantra is a five-passenger, front-drive sedan that competes with Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla and Volkswagen Jetta. It is mechanically similar to the Kia Forte.

Elantra is offered in four trim levels: SE, Eco, Limited and Sport. SE and Limited are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 147 horsepower. Eco gets a turbocharged 1.4-liter four that makes 128 horsepower. Those engines mate to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The Sport gets a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder mill that makes 201 horsepower and mates to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, rear-view monitor and dual-front, front-side, driver-knee and side-curtain airbags. Also available are adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with brake assist, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitor and lane-departure warning.

Prices start at $17,150 and climb to $22,350. All models have an $835 destination charge and are assembled in Montgomery, Alabama.

Elantra's 2.0-liter four provides adequate performance. Most others in the class have a bit more power, but the Elantra never feels slow in SE or Limited trim. The Eco's turbo four has the best EPA numbers and not much else. Opting for the Sport brings, not only the most powerful engine, but a host of suspension, steering and brake revisions as well. The Sport engine gives Elantra the scoot it's racy new styling deserves with a minimal fuel economy penalty. Both automatic transmissions shift smoothly but hesitate a bit when downshifting or climbing hills.

While the Eco's EPA ratings match most competitors, the EPA numbers for the 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter engines fall a few MPG short of many competitors. The 2.0-liter, for example, is EPA rated at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. That compares to Chevy Cruze ratings of 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. In routine driving, it's easy to average 35 mpg overall -- especially if your commute includes some highway cruising. If you are stuck in the city grind, expect about 30 mpg overall.

Mainstream models offer a good blend of ride comfort and handling prowess. The suspension does a good job of smoothing the rough stuff while quelling undue bouncing. Elantra Sport models have enhanced suspension components, more aggressive wheels and tires and a quicker steering rack. They combine to provide a substantially more athletic ride with little penalty in overall comfort.

Hyundai made substantial gains in reducing interior noise. A tighter build, better aerodynamics and additional sound deadening materials work to provide a quiet interior at all speeds -- perhaps the quietest in the class on Limited models.

Elantra's interior receives a major makeover in the 2017 redesign. Soft-touch materials abound and fit-and-finish is top-notch for the class. Drivers face twin dials flanking a programmable central display. On upscale models, the center stack is dominated by a large touch screen with climate controls placed just below. Overall, controls are easy to find and operate. Android Auto and Apple Car Play support is available.

Front seats are nicely padded and offer great long-trip comfort. Head and leg room are exceptional for the class and outward visibility is great as well. Back seat passengers will find good leg room and decent head room. Space in back is certainly not class leading, but two adults will be comfortable.

Elantra's trunk offers 14.4 cubic feet of cargo space. That's par for the class. The rear seatbacks fold to increase cargo space. Interior storage is good with a few open and covered bins up front.

Hyundai made substantial improvements to the 2017 Elantra and instantly vaulted it to the head of the class in terms of overall refinement and features. While it doesn't overwhelm in any one area, the combination of ride comfort, interior space, and features at a compelling price make Elantra a must see for compact-car shoppers.

Mark Bilek

Mark Bilek is the Senior Director of Communications and Technology for the Chicago Auto Trade Association and the General Manager for DriveChicago.com. He is also responsible for developing and maintaining the Chicago Auto Show Web site.

Mark has been reviewing vehicles for more than two decades. Previously, he was associate publisher at Consumer Guide, where he oversaw publication of Consumer Guide Car & Truck Test, Consumer Guide's Used Car Book, and ConsumerGuide.com. He was also responsible for publication of "Collectible Automobile" and various hardcover automotive titles. In 2001 and 2002 he served as president of a Midwest Automotive Media Association. Mark has appeared on NBC TV, ABC TV, Fox News, WGN and MotorTrend TV as an automotive consultant. He hosts the Drive Chicago radio show on WLS 890 AM and was a regular guest on WGN Radio's Steve & Johnnie show. Mark lives in the northwest suburbs with his wife and three sons.

2017 Hyundai Elantra Review

2017 Hyundai Elantra - Redesigned for 2017, Elantra jumps to the top of the class.

Mark Bilek

Find Used Cars in Chicago or Chicago Car Dealers at DriveChicago.com

Navigation

Site Links

Privacy & Security