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. It comes with a 138-hp 2.0-liter engine with variable-valve timing and is a leader in fuel economy, earning a 27/34 mpg City/Highway from the EPA when equipped with the manual transmission.

The four-door sedan is popular, but we prefer the five-door hatchback for its practicality.

Elantra is available in base GLS and sporty GT trim and, for 2006, it's also available in an upscale Limited trim.

The Elantra's interior is nicely finished and it's roomier and more comfortable than many subcompacts, including big name brands such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. 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 come with a 10-year/ 100,000-mile warranty, and Hyundai warrants Elantra against rust-through for five years or 100,000 miles.