2013 Hyundai Elantra

For the 2013 model year, coupe and GT hatchback models join the Hyundai Elantra sedan, and all body styles have a four-cylinder engine and standard six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is optional. Most members of the automotive press say that the engine strains under hard acceleration, but agree that overall, the Elantra benefits from accurate steering, smooth transmissions and a comfortable ride. With either transmission, the Elantra has good EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 28/38 mpg city/highway. Test drivers agree that the Elantra GT and coupe are sportier than the base sedan, but several also mention that car shoppers who want more refined handling and a smoother engine should consider competitors like the Ford Focus and Mazda3, which are reviewers' go-to sporty small cars.

Like many affordable small cars, the Hyundai Elantra is made with hard plastics, but when reviewers consider its price point, most don’t pan the Elantra for cheap construction. The Elantra’s features list is typical for the class, and includes standard amenities like satellite radio and a USB port, as well as an optional navigation system with a rearview camera. Reviewers give mixed opinions on the interior controls’ ease of use, and one reviewer is particularly annoyed with the touch-screen navigation system, which fades out in the sun. All 2013 Elantra models have good front and rear cabin space. Test drivers even say the coupe’s second-row seats fit adults, though the sedan and GT’s rear rows are more comfortable. Both the coupe and sedan have class-competitive cargo space, and the GT offers greater utility.

Hyundai pared weight wherever it could to keep the Elantra lean and efficient. The effort paid off with a body that weighs less, and with fuel economy that rose to a magic marketing number. The previous Elantra's 2.0-liter four is down to 1.8 liters in this generation; with 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque in all, the Elantra performs smoothly and respectably with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. The Elantra doesn't feel as energetic or engaging as the Ford Focus, though, because its throttle is slow to respond to inputs, and its steering--while improved with better on-center feel this year--isn't especially natural in its feedback. It's a bit better on coupes, which get a faster ratio, along with a stiffer rear suspension and distinct tuning. Ride quality is good on either model, and the Elantra soaks up road noise as well as, or better than its competitors, with noise levels about as low as some mid-size sedans.

Displacement (cc) 1797
Horsepower @ RPM
(ULEV / PZEV 4-cylinder) 148 @ 6500 / 145 @ 6300
Torque
(ULEV / PZEV 4-cylinder) 131 @ 4700 / 130 @ 4700
Compression ratio 10.3:1 10.3:1
Valve train 16-valve with D-CVVT