2007 Hyundai Elantra: Small Sedan With Big Features

2007 Hyundai Elantra: Small Sedan With Big Features

The newest generation Hyundai Elantra is larger than its predecessor and surprisingly sophisticated, and it delivers small-sedan value like nobody's business. The Elantra boasts a roomy interior, premium comfort and convenience features, and a top-notch warranty.

ABOUT THE HYUNDAI ELANTRA: Body style: Sedan Trim lines: GLS, SE, Limited Price: $13,395-$17,295 (tester, a fully loaded Limited) Drive: Front-wheel Seating: Two in front, two or three in back Engine: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder Transmission: Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic Miles per gallon of fuel: 28 city/36 highway

Car and Driver: "all new for 2007, the fourth-generation Elantra follows Hyundai's success formula. Even base models come with standard ABS, power mirrors, power windows and six air bags. The latest Elantra is bigger than the previous edition, and if it's not exciting, it is a good value. The spacious interior seats four adults comfortably, with lots of standard features and a comprehensive array of safety equipment."

WHAT'S SPECIAL: The Elantra's added size -- about 2 inches taller and wider and about 112.1 cubic feet of total interior volume -- puts it among the leaders for sedans in its class. Also on the inside, there is more dramatic flair, with blue-lit gauges and classy, ergonomically correct controls.

WHAT WE LIKE: The abundance of standard safety features on the Elantra is worthy of applause. Stand and cheer for head-curtain and side-impact air bags, anti-lock brakes and front-seat active head restraints, all at no extra charge.

WHAT ISN'T THERE: A gas-guzzling engine. Say goodbye to your local convenience-store clerk -- it will be awhile between visits with the Elantra getting 28 mpg city, 36 highway. That's all thanks to an efficient 2-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve engine.

YOU OUGHTA KNOW: The Elantra is practical, sure, but it's not without its fun side, too. Take it out on a winding road and check out its rigid suspension and precise cornering ability. Its motor-driven power steering was engineered to improve fuel economy. Hyundai knew what it was doing when it included all those standard safety features: The Elantra gets a five-star (top) rating in government crash tests.

EXTRAS: This thing just oozes convenience. There are storage areas in the dash, console and seatback pockets. There are dual front cup holders and a rear armrest with cup holders. There's also an auxiliary input jack for iPod fans. If it's luxury you're into, indulge in the leather seats, the heated seats or the power sunroof. Also, enjoy the standard XM Satellite radio. Bluetooth connectivity is coming.

Edmunds.com: "A compact economy sedan, the 2007 Hyundai Elantra comes in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. Aimed at dealer advertising fodder, the base GLS is sparesly equipped: It wears 15-inch steel wheels and has power windows, mirrors, and locks, but offers neither air conditioning nor a stereo as standard, which must be added via a preferred equipment package. In contrast the midrange Elantra SE is nicely equipped."

AND ANOTHER THING: Hyundai continues to stun observers with its revamped vehicle lineup, safety ratings, warranty program and high-quality rankings.

By ROB DOUTHIT
Cox News Service
February 2, 2007