With each new model, Hyundai creeps up on the competition, led by the Japanese. The Elantra has at least two assets, interior size and standard safety equipment, that out-do other compact cars. The styling can now hold its own; it's very clean and doesn't try to draw attention to itself. The seats are comfortable, brakes excellent, and cornering good. The revised engine offers the latest four-cylinder technology; it can power the Elantra to 80 miles per hour without much effort, and can deliver 28 city and 36 highway miles per gallon when driven conservatively. With a price that's lower than most other compact cars, the Elantra is a worthy competitor in the class.NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Sam Moses filed this report from the Columbia River Gorge on the Oregon-Washington border.
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