Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide
6.9
Overall Rating
The new Elantra stands out with its high fuel economy, impressive technology and safety features, and roomy cabin. - Edmunds
It is offered in three variants - SE/SEL/Limited and is also available in hybrid and N Line variants for the first time. The Elantra N Line, however, is seen to be a major breakthrough here with its range-topping performance specs derived from a turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder engine. All these material upgrades will definitely pull focus from the existing popular sedans such as the Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Toyota Corolla, and the Nissan Sentra.
6.5/10
Pricing and Features
5.0/10
Engine and Performance
6.0/10
Fuel Economy
7.0/10
Interior
7.0/10
Exterior
9.0/10
Safety
7.0/10
Competition
8.2/10
Final Verdict
2021 Hyundai Elantra Pricing and Features
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is currently on sale and has attracted some attention indeed. The new car will be available in 3 trim levels, SE, SEL, and Limited. There is also the addition of a hybrid variant of the car for the first time as well.
There's also a new 2021 Hyundai Elantra N Line starting at $24,100, which has a turbocharged engine and a dual-clutch automatic transmission. It will be more of a sport-oriented version and will be a direct rival to the likes of the Honda Civic Si, and the theme will be seen throughout the vehicle.
| Trim Levels | SE | SEL | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $19,650 | $22,000 | $25,450 |
| Features | 8” touch screen | Adds to all the features of SE | Adss to all feature of SE and SEL trims |
| Wireless Android Auto | Driver Attention Monitoring | Hyundai Digital Key | |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Blind Spot Monitoring | Dynamic Voice Recognition | |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Adaptive Cruise Control | 10.25” touchscreen navigation | |
| Lane Keep Assist | Bose Premium Audio System |
The new Elantra is offered at a starting price of around $19,650, for the base SE trim and the pricing will go all the way up to $25,450. A slight increase in price is expected, owing to the additional features and the new body design and Hyundai has priced it well within that.
Also Read:
- The 2021 Hyundai Elantra gets a ground-up makeover in the exteriors
- 2021 Hyundai Veloster vs 2021 Honda Civic Hatchback
2021 Hyundai Elantra Buying Advice
The base SE variant is more or less functional but will miss out on some essential features, and the difference in pricing isn’t too tall, so it won’t be a very difficult decision to jump to a higher trim level. The Limited trim comes packed with features but it will cost around $26,000, which seems like a costly proposition. So we feel the SEL trim level turns out to be the best purchase.
Check out the Warranty, Maintenance Costs, and Reliability Ratings of the 2021 Hyundai Elantra! >>
2021 Hyundai Elantra Engine and Performance
The Elantra's new look moves it a long way from its old image of no-frills transportation and uses Hyundai's design language called "Sensuous Sportiness". - CarBuzz.com
The new Hyundai Elantra will be offered with a single engine option, a 2.0L gas engine, which churns out 147hp and 132lbft of torque. The Elantra Hybrid and N Line versions will have a 1.6L four-cylinder motor paired to either a 39hp electric motor or a turbocharger respectively, which gives a combined output of 139hp and 201hp in that order. The base car has an 8.3 seconds 0-60 mph sprint time, and it is the slowest of the lot, and the quarter-mile figures aren’t that impressive either.
The Elantra will get a CVT box paired to the 2.0L engine, while the 1.6L engine will come mated to a DCT gearbox. Both the gearboxes are smooth and slick and most of the time, they are responsive. The Elantra looks a bit underpowered on paper when compared to its rivals, and you do feel a bit sluggish at the beginning, but the motor pulls on later. The car isn’t underpowered itself, but it does feel a bit slow when we drive it back-to-back with its rivals.
|
Models |
2021 Hyundai Elantra |
2021 Honda Civic |
2021 Toyota Corolla |
2021 Mazda 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP |
$19,650 |
$21,250 |
$20,025 |
$20,650 |
|
Engine |
2.0L inline four-cylinder |
2.0L inline four-cylinder |
1.8L inline four-cylinder |
2.5L inline four-cylinder |
|
Drivetrain |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
|
Transmission |
CVT |
CVT |
CVT |
CVT |
|
Power |
147 hp @ 6,200 rpm |
158 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
139 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
186 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
|
Torque |
132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm |
138 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm |
126 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpm |
186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| 0-60 MPH | 8.1 s | 8.2 s | 8.2 s | 8.0 |
| Quarter Mile | 16.2 s | 16.3 s | 16.2 s | 16.2 s |
| Top Speed | 120 MPH | 119 MPH | 112 MPH | 131 MPH |
But rivals such as the Mazda 3 having a 186 hp motor aren't all that fast either, with a 0-60 mph run time of 8.1 seconds. That way, performance from the all-new Elantra is much impressive. However, we expect some improvement in the new car with the ‘N Line’ trim and the reworked motor. The car does feel a bit sluggish at the start and you do feel the rubber band effect, it is very subtle though, and otherwise, the engine is rev-happy most of the time.
Also Read:
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra Reliability, JD Power Report, Recalls, and Warranty
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 Toyota Corolla
2021 Hyundai Elantra Fuel Economy
The regular car with the naturally aspirated engine returns a decent 35 MPG combined and around 31 in the city and 41 on the highway, which is a pretty impressive figure and fits rightly in this segment. Hyundai claims that the new-gen Hybrid version of the 2021 Elantra will return 56 MPG, but how much of it materializes on the roads is yet to be seen.
|
Models |
2021 Hyundai Elantra |
2021 Honda Civic |
2021 Toyota Corolla |
2021 Mazda 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MPG (City) |
31 |
33 |
31 |
27 |
|
MPG (Highway) |
41 |
43 |
38 |
36 |
|
MPG (Combined) |
35 |
37 |
34 |
30 |
|
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallons) |
14.0 |
12.4 |
13.2 |
12.7 |
| Range (City/Highway/Combined) (Miles) | 434/574/490 | 409/533/459 | 409/502/449 | 343/457/381 |
The new Elantra is still quite a fuel-efficient car in comparison to the 2020 Elantra returning the same mpg figures but taking 9.0 seconds to reach the 60 mph mark with the same motor. But the most economical is the Honda Civic, which happens to be the quickest of the lot too, returning a combined mpg of 37.
Also Read:
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra Length, Width, Height, Ground Clearance, and Wheelbase
- Apple Set To Sign A Deal With Hyundai On Making Their EV Based On The E-GMP Platform
2021 Hyundai Elantra Interior
The dashboard and center console wrap around the driver while the passenger's side takes a more minimalist approach. - CarAndDriver
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is a leap forward, not only in terms of exterior styling but also in regard to the striking new interior. Hyundai usually gets interiors right, and this one is no different, the car is adequately spacious and there are very few bits you can complain about. The front seats hold you in place very nicely and are electrically adjustable, they have a kind of swept-back feel and you really feel like you’re driving a really sporty vehicle.
The layout of the dash too is decent and things fall to hands easily. The rear seat offers generous space for a car of this size, but it does slightly cramp at some point and the under-thigh support could have been a little better, it isn’t unforgiving, but there is a slight scope of improvement. The seat itself is quite well cushioned and the leather feels really nice.
|
Models |
2021 Hyundai Elantra |
2021 Honda Civic |
2021 Toyota Corolla |
2021 Mazda 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
40.6/56.5/42.3 |
39.3/57.0/42.3 |
38.3/54.0/42.0 |
38.0/55.7/42.3 |
|
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
37.3/55.6/38.0 |
37.1/55.0/37.4 |
37.1/51.7/34.8 |
37.2/53.5/35.1 |
Legroom and knee room are decent, however, due to the swept-back roofline, taller occupants might face a little bit of a problem. The Hyundai Elantra comes loaded with tech and entertainment features and the list of equipment just goes on and on. The info display on the previous Elantra worked just fine, but with this new car and the new system, things have moved further. The interface is now improved and the visuals are crisper and clearer.
There are a lot of quirky features on offer and the system is going to satisfy most buyers. The new car also gets an all-new digital driver assistance screen, which though comes as an option, but is a great addition to the futuristic interior of the Elantra. Some of the highlights of the infotainment system are as follows:
- Bluetooth Telephony with Voice Recognition
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Dual Automatic Temperature Control with Auto Defogging System
- Qi Wireless Charging Pad for compatible Phones
- Bose Premium Audio System
- Digital driver’s display
- 8 Speaker HD audio system with Subwoofer
Also Read:
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra Performance, 0-60, and Top Speed
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra City, Highway and Combined MPG and Fuel Range
2021 Hyundai Elantra Exterior
The latest Elantra wears an attention-grabbing shape that wears origami folds and lots of diamond-themed details. It's wasp-waisted and daring—but the interior's more plain, with a horizontal band of metallic ribs and a touchscreen that caps the dash. - TheCarConnection
The exterior of the new Elantra is its game-changing element. The car looks like a sculpted sci-fi locomotive and it looks really impressive. The vehicle exhibits very sharp cuts and creases and you notice a triangular symmetry in the design cues of the doors.
But nothing says all-new Elantra more than its aggressively styled front end, which resembles the new Sonata. The car is decently proportioned and has a very well-balanced stance. The looks of the new Elantra are going to be on its unique selling points and are going to attract a large set of buyers.
|
Models |
2021 Hyundai Elantra |
2021 Honda Civic |
2021 Toyota Corolla |
2021 Mazda 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Curb Weight (lbs) |
2725 |
2771 |
2840 |
2899 |
|
Length (in) |
184.1" |
182.3" |
183.1" |
180.3" |
|
Width (in) |
71.9" |
70.8" |
69.9" |
70.7" |
|
Height (in) |
55.7" |
55.7" |
57.3" |
57.3" |
|
Ground Clearance (in) |
5.3" |
6.3" |
6.7" |
6.1" |
|
Wheelbase (in) |
107.1 |
106.3 |
107.3 |
107.3 |
Even its new 15-, 16-, and 17-inch-wheel designs are in perfect harmony with the new Parametric Dynamics theme. The car fits rightly in the segment and gives a healthy competition to its rivals, but the Elantra trumps the rivals when it comes to the styling aspect.
Also Read:
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra Infotainment, Seating, and Interior Features
- 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review- Prices, Specs, Mileage, Performance, Features, And Rivals
2021 Hyundai Elantra Safety
The Hyundai Elantra comes with a long list of safety features and equipment, and it has become a Hyundai tradition to make the car strong on the safety front. The Hyundai Elantra is equipped with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, active lane control, and automatic high beams, while Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and rear automatic emergency braking system are available as optional add-ons.
Also Read:
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra : NHTSA and IIHS Ratings, and Safety Features
- 2020 Hyundai Kona electric SUV Complete In-depth Review & Buying Guide
2021 Hyundai Elantra Competition
2021 Hyundai Elantra vs 2020 Honda Civic
The Honda Civic has got some new add-ons coming up soon, and it is already a great looking car. It has been a familiar name and buyers impart a certain amount of trust with the Civic franchise.
The car scores well on the performance front too but loses out slightly on the tech and features front to the Elantra, which comes absolutely loaded with features and equipment, and with the new styling, makes a compelling package.
2021 Hyundai Elantra vs 2020 Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla has been a great seller for a very long time and is a no-nonsense, durable, and reliable automobile. The car has very few bits you can complain about and is amongst the easiest cars to maintain.
However, the car is losing ground owing to odd and obsolete styling and despite being a very capable car, it looks a bit dated. This is where the Elantra acts as a fulfiller and satisfies the modern buyer with its striking looks and futuristic visual appeal.
2021 Hyundai Elantra vs 2020 Mazda 3
The Elantra though is a great looker and comes loaded with tech, it does lose out on the performance front and this is where the Mazda kicks in.
The Mazda 3 is a decent-looking sedan and also packs in a punchy motor you can have some fun with.
2021 Hyundai Elantra Final Verdict
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is a very capable compact car that comes at a great price and packs in a fantastic blend of stunning exteriors and comfortable interiors. The car is aiming to lead the segment sales and has been a volume seller for Hyundai. It has been a reliable vehicle and has satisfied a lot of buyers over the years.
Check out some used Hyundai Elantra for sale in the US at just $6,495! >>
Also Read:
- 2021 Hyundai Elantra takes top honors at the North American Car & Truck of The Year Awards
- The 2021 Hyundai Elantra's base SE model comes with wireless smartphone integration, auto-emergency braking, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen at an MSRP of $19,650
- Will the 2021 Hyundai Elantra end dominance of the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic?
2021 Hyundai Elantra FAQs
Is the Hyundai Elantra reliable?
The Korean manufacturers have had an excellent reliability rating for all their cars in the lineup, with Elantra probably enjoying a place at the top in terms of reliability quotient. Popular and trusted reliability sources have rated this car a full 4.5 out of 5, a pretty respectable number. Moreover, for an average annual repair cost of less than $500, it has excellent ownership costs too.
Has Hyundai fixed their engine problems?
Hyundai has had an abundance of complaints regarding their engines that fail to start or at instances do catch fire. There have been major recalls of the numbers of 6 million vehicles in the past 4-5 years conducted by Hyundai. The problem has since then been resolved majorly, although there are a few persistent cases.
What are the major problems with the Hyundai Elantra?
There have been quite a few problems with the Hyundai Elantra over the years, ranging from engine troubles, electrical complaints, and transmission issues, although nothing major.
Does the Hyundai Elantra have a turbocharged unit?
The Elantra is offered in two powertrain options. A base 2.0L Naturally Aspirated 4-cylinder engine and also a turbocharged 1.6L unit that punches out a maximum of 201 hp.
What are the cars that are most comparable to the Hyundai Elantra?
Among the high range jam-packed compact sedan segment, the Hyundai Elantra has a lot of competition ranging from Nissan Sentra, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta, etc.
2021 Hyundai Elantra Consumer Reviews and Ratings
based on 177 ratings
POPULAR TAGS
2021 Hyundai Elantra Overall Reviews
User Overall Rating
Posted On: June 17, 2021
Dealer is taking no stand
Pros - Safe, nice mileage, efficient comfort oriented features
Cons - Sytle looks a bit overdone, off-centred steering, poor dealer experience,
Off-centred steering The steering was a bit off-centred and tried to pull towards left. This started happening and increasing slowly and gradually in the past four months. Very concerning when using adaptive cruise control that came along with a package. It has happened with me once, but the system did hit brakes itself. It's been six months and the dealer folks despite having driven it are not ready to take any stand. The steering is off-centred and dealer people have driven my car, yet they are not ready to take any stand.
User Overall Rating
Posted On: May 28, 2021
Dependable
Pros - Price, value, comfortable
Cons - Ground clearance, suspension
So far so good I have had the car for a little over a year. Overall the Elantra is a good car. Performance is adequate. The comfort level is marginal. The vehicle sits very low to the ground making getting in and out of the car uncomfortable. The biggest complaint I have is its poor performance in snow. I have lived in the Northeast all my life and am therefore very used to driving in snow. This vehicle simply can't handle it. If you live in an area where snow is an issue I would strongly suggest not purchasing a Hyundai Elantra. I wasn’t too happy with the service and how they handled my credit and financial situation at the time. Rushing me to complete the sale, and making me feel bad about my credit situation. They want to make a sale and that is it....no personal or comfort service while making the purchase
User Overall Rating
Posted On: May 24, 2021
The best choise.
Pros - Feature loaded,stunning looks,frugal engine.
Cons - Brand reputation.
This car deserves some recognition. Me being relatively new to driving finds it very easy to use this car as it has a light streering wheel and smooth gearbox.The trottle feels much more gradual in response and has every controls in one hand reach while in a superb driving position. I feel the interiors of this car is the best as it gets.It is fully loaded and car easily rival cars of higher sticker price on standard fitment equipment list.Also the seats feel excellent with heating function. My car always has a premium look from the outside thanks to its sleek looking headlamps and the fully extending tail lamps across the boot.I also love how the roof slopes towards the rear giving it a more aerodynamic look. Was great experience, knew what we wanted and got great help getting it. Very nice sales staff. Ask for Cody
