The Elantra is one of the quickest cars in its class. It handles as well as many of its competitors and has a sporty feel. Elantra comes with a newly engineered 2.0-liter engine with variable-valve timing and is a leader in fuel economy. Elantra is rated 27/34 mpg City/Highway by the EPA when equipped with the manual transmission.

The four-door sedan is popular, while the five-door hatchback merges the practical advantages of a wagon with the sleek look of a sedan. Each body style is available in GLS and GT trim.

The Elantra's interior is nicely finished and more comfortable than many subcompacts, including the big name brands. Standard equipment surpasses that offered on cars costing thousands more, and includes side airbags, designed to provide torso protection in a side impact.

Hyundai's warranty is one of the best available. The basic warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles for the original owner, with free roadside assistance throughout. The engine and transmission are warranted for 10 years or 100,000 miles, and Hyundai protects Elantra from rust-through for five years or 100,000 miles.