Hatchbacks are a popular community. They have that everyday drivability of sedans and serve the practicality of SUVs. It is this versitality that makes hatches famous among folks around the world. In fact, the craze is so hyped, several car makers offer track-specific versions of their most popular hatchbacks. In that niche, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra GT is a powerful prospect with sleek and sharp looks.
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra looks sporty yet sophisticated
The graceful interior design combined with exceptional cargo makes it a utilitarian prospect, nothing more. For that added bit of driving excitement, Hyundai offers the Elantra GT N Line Hatchback. In this review, however, we're only going to speak for the base GT Hatchback. It has managed to successfully establish itself in a segment that is very competitive still. So, let's find out how exactly does it do that.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra follows Hyundai fluidic design theory
The fact that it is manufactured at Hyundai’s factory in Alabama helps keep its price in check. This five-door hatchback competes against radical design of Honda's Civic hatchback, reliability of Toyota's Corolla hatchback and the drivability of Subaru's Impreza hatchback. So in order to set it apart, Hyundai offers comprehensive warranty coverages which is the best in the segment.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback features projector headlights
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Pricing and Features
7.5/10
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra is a five-door, five-seater hatch avaialble in a single trim. There is another GT N Line variant on offer too but its gets a more powerful turbocharged engine which sets it apart. In its base form this hatch features a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine. Other than that, it offers the same interior space, adequate standard features and plush ride.
Trim
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT
MSRP (FWD)
$20,650
Key Features
17-inch alloy wheels
8-inch color touchscreen
Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Cruise Control
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Vehicle Stability Management
Electronic Stability Control
Also, the base GT is configured only with a 6-speed automatic transmission, whereas the N Line can be availed with either a manual unit or an optional DCT unit. However, front-wheel drive comes as a stand-alone option on both. Hyundai does offer an exclusive Style Package for the naturally aspirated GT hatch. This package further adds high-quality equipment like:
Package
Style Package
MSRP
$2,900
Key Features
Panoramic sunroof
Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW)
Side mirror turn signals
Leather seating surfaces
Proximity Key with push-button start
4.2-inch TFT display (Super Vision)
Dual automatic temperature control with auto defog
The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Power driver seat with lumbar
Heated front seats
Driver’s auto-up/down window
Sliding armrest
What do we recommend?
The base Elantra GT is a sensible proposition with handsome all-round looks. It can be availed at an MSRP starting at $20,650. For upscale feautres like panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and push start button, one can opt for the available package for an extra $2,900, which is a lot of value for that kind of money.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Engine and Performance
7.0/10
The 2020 Elantra GT is a front-wheel-driven hatch and there is no choice of an all-wheel-drive unit. Those front two wheels are powered with the help of a naturally-aspirated 2.0L inline-4 engine. That is very much the same engine placed under the hood of the Elantra sedan, however, at 161 horsepower the hatch is more powerful than the sedan.
The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated motor of the Elantra GT makes 161 hp and 150 lb-ft
Its Sport and Sport Touring variants extract 180 hp and upto 177 lb.-ft. torque with the six-speed manual transmission. Then again, the 2020 Elantra GT N Line gets a 201 hp, 1.6-liter turb-four with an optional DCT unit which really spices things up.
How fast is the Hyundai Elantra GT?
The base 2.0L four-cylinder engine feels underpowered and is. Yes, it makes more power than what it does in the Elantra sedan but that hike is there only to counter the hatch's additional weight over the sedan. You will be surpirised to know that despite making about 14 extra horses and 18 extra twisties, the GT Hatchback is only a second faster than the Elantra Sedan's 0-60 mph run of 9.0 seconds.
It takes the 2020 Elantra GT 8.0 seconds to reach 60 MPH from naught
Initial acceleration is slow as power is received a little higher up on the powerband. That in now way means that as the revs climb this hatch starts to shine. The engine will irk you with the buzz it makes under heavy acceleration and only gets buzzier higher up the rev-range. Even the six-speed automatic unit, which is otherwise quite precise, loses track under high spirited sessions.
Models
Hyundai Elantra GT
Honda Civic LX Hatchback
Toyota Corolla SE Hatchback
Subaru Impreza 5-Door
0-60 MPH (sec)
8.0
7.8
8.2
9.2
Quarter Mile (sec)
16.2
15.9
16.3
17.1
Top Speed (MPH)
126
125
116
N/A
Engine
2.0L Inline-4
1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4
2.0L Inline-4
2.0L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder
Emission
(Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)
6.6
5.3
5.1
5.9
The underdog of the lot is the Subaru Imprez five-door. It gets the least potent engine, and its 9.2 second time to the 60 mph mark from zero only makes it the lagger of the lot. As expected, the Civic hatch is the quickest to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.8 seconds. The scenario really changes if we take into account the GT N Line trim which can dart past the 60 mph mark in as less as 6.6 seconds.
How is the ride and handling of the Elantra GT?
Nevertheless, this five-door, compact is a potent and capable drive. The standard front-wheel-drive categorizes it as a mild-sport hatchback. Considering its stiff suspension setup, the ride quality is remarkable. On a wide variety of roads, the GT drives without any fuss. It does not rock the passengers on the bumpy sections either, which signifies good build quality.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT has stiffer suspension but returns a plush ride
The nimble steering offers capable handling and makes it easy to control, even at higher speeds. It even offers three adjustable driving modes; Normal, Eco and Sport. That way, this affordable, little hatch offers plenty of driving fun. The only chink in its armour that holds it back is the lack of power from the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine.
How do brakes on the Elantra GT perform?
Elantra GT showcases average braking performance justified for the routine drives through the city. However, bite from the brakes does diminish on the highway but not so much as to scare you. Just that, the pedal returns an inconsistent response to inputs. It otherwise feels plenty firm to operate.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT features four-wheel ABS and Traction control
Thankfully, all brakes feature anti-lock braking system, so you could go as hard on the pedal as you want. The standard traction control on board further ensures that you don't lose control while doing so.
Model
Hyundai Elantra GT
Honda Civic LX Hatchback
Toyota Corolla SE Hatchback
Subaru Impreza 5-Door
Brake Rotors Front (in)
12
10.2
11.5
11.6
Brake Rotors Rear (in)
11.2
9.8
10.5
10.8
Curb Weight (lbs)
2943
2901
3060
2985
60-0 MPH (ft)
119
127
119
118
Unlike its acceleration, the Subaru Impreza Hatchback makes for most stable braking. The real surprise comes from the Corolla Hatchback manages to stop from a speed of 60 mph in 119 ft., despite being the heaviest, which is same as that Hyundai five-door hatchback. On the other hand, the Civic Hatchback has the smallest rotors. Consequently, it the slowest to reach a halt.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Fuel Economy
6.0/10
The Elantra GT's 2.0L engine is both underpowered and a little less efficient from the other hatches available in the American market. The sub-par EPA ratings take a toll on overall value, as well as practicality, of the hatch. Thankfully, it gets a big fuel tank which helps improve its real-world usability.
That way, the GT N Line with its optional Dual Clutch Transmission really impresses. Not only does it significantly alter this hatch's performance but manages to return just as much fuel economy numbers as the non-turbo Elantra GT with the standard 6-speed automatic unit.
Model
Hyundai Elantra GT
Honda Civic LX Hatchback
Toyota Corolla SE Hatchback
Subaru Impreza 5-Door
MPG (City)
25
31
32
28
MPG (Highway)
32
40
41
36
MPG (Combined)
27
34
35
31
Fuel Capacity (Gallons)
14.0
12.4
13.2
13.2
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) (mi)
350/448/378
384/496/422
422/541/462
370/475/409
When it comes to MPG ratings, there is no beating the Corolla SE Hatchback. As an economy-minded hatch, its 2.0-liter four-pot returns best-in-class fuel efficiency. It also gets a relatively big fuel tank which only pushes its overall range.
The cabin of this Hyundai hatch is another appealing factor adding value to the car. The remarkable styling, wider door openings and the adjustable driver's seat make the Elantra GT's interiors easily accessible and extremely driver-friendly. The only real setback are the seats. They lack cushioning and are not very comfortable for long journeys. Also, the second row is cramped and can’t accommodate taller adults comfortably.
On the flipside, the interior of this Hyundai five-door hatchback oozes a premium feel with seats flaunting upmarket cloth upholstery. The use of hard plastics looks odd, sure, but that’s justified for the segment pricing. For all sorts of added luxury items, one can always opt for the Styling Package for an additional price of $2,900.
How intuitive is the infotainment system of Elantra GT?
It has an 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen with Apple Carplay, and Android Auto compatibility. Though, the Blue Link Connected car system is not on offer and navigation is optional but the controls are easy to use and Bluetooth pairs quickly. Also, the conventional 3.5-inch mono cluster display offers clear information behind the wheels.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback 8-inch display is a high resolution touchscreen
Then again, no Wi-Fi hotspot facility is available either, which does make you question the usability of this hatch. Nonetheless, the list of standard tech includes key infotainment features like:
Bluetooth® hands-free phone system with voice recognition
AM/FM
Speed-sensitive automatic volume control
Android Auto
Apple CarPlay
SiriusXM satellite radio
What convenience features does the Elantra GT get?
Sure, it might seem like this five-door hatch misses out on plenty of features that its competition offers. However, that is not exactly the case. On board this Hyundai hatch are several comfort features that ensure that at least the person behind its steering wheel has a happening time. These features include:
6-way adjustable driver seat including height adjustment for driver and passenger
60/40 split fold-down rear seatback
Air conditioning
Tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel
Steering-wheel-mounted audio, cruise control, and Bluetooth controls
Fixed armrest storage box
Map lights with sunglasses holder, dome lamp and cargo lamp
How capacious is the cargo of the Elantra GT?
Hyundai designed the Elantra GT to be the best utilitarian hatchback with ample storage for small or large items. The cargo space behind the rear can easily accommodate 5-carry on suitcases. That way, it offers one of the largest cargo within the segment. It also offers adequate internal cubby storage for smaller items.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT can store 5 carry-on bags with ease
Furthermore, its rear seats feature 60/40 split-folding function. So they can be folded to maximize available space. It is safe to say that this five-door hatch is well equipped to store pretty much all a person driving it would have to carry. That is a praise which does not hold true for most other cars in this segment.
Model
Hyundai Elantra GT
Honda Civic LX Hatchback
Toyota Corolla SE Hatchback
Subaru Impreza 5-Door
Cargo Capacity (ft³)
24.9
25.7
17.8
20.8
Cargo Capacity (with Rear Seat down) (ft³)
55.1
46.2
N/A
N/A
Clearly, the Hyundai Elantra GT is unbeatable in the criteria. Even with its rear seats up it offers above average boot space. The trunk gate is also power operated, which minimizes the effort of loading and unloading cargo. The Subaru Impreza hatch finally shows some zeal with its 20.8 cu.ft. boot.
The Elantra GT got its last redesign only last year. So this time it carries over with no changes whatsover. The balanced chassis imparts stability and complements better handling. The use of chrome in trapezoidal grille up front and sharp projector headlights highlight a sophisticated look. This hatch features LED daytime running lights as well, and comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels.
The fluidic 2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback exudes European elegance
The side profile is that of a typical hatch. The hood rises gently to meat the A-pillars just behind the wheel arches and is underscored by a strong character lines that run all the way to the back. The sculpts in the door do a decent job of hiding most of the bulk. As a result of which it looks rather sporty.
Model
Hyundai Elantra GT
Honda Civic LX Hatchback
Toyota Corolla SE Hatchback
Subaru Impreza 5-Door
Curb Weight (lbs)
2943
2901
3060
2985
Length (in)
170.9
177.9
172.0
175.6
Width (in)
70.7
70.8
70.5
70
Height (in)
57.7
56.5
57.1
58.9
Ground Clearance (in)
5.9
N/A
5.1
5.1
Wheelbase (in)
104.3
106.3
103.9
105.1
That sportiness is only enhanced as you move to the back. The trunk gate features a roof-mounted spoiler with the marque's badging in the center. The tail is neatly put together by a buldging rear bumper which incorporates dual exhaust tips, one on each side. Overall, the Elantra GT looks quite striking.
The 2020 Elantra GT misses out on getting a perfect score for overall safety from NHTSA because of the left rear door which intrudes passenger space in the side barrier crash test. However, it has been rewarded with an “Good” overall rating from IIHS and was declared Top Safety Pick for 2019. This goes to show how safe the Elantra GT actually is. It also includes Hyundai's SmartSense for that added bit of security.
Honda Civic's smaller capacity engine generates 174 hp, which is a lot more in comparison to Elantra GT. Then again, it also offers better fuel efficiency. In fact, in terms of usability, the Civic turns out to be a lot more impressive. It has a significantly spacious second row and is definitely a better everyday commuter. It is also cheaper to own. On the other hand, that Hyundai's only upside is its bigger cargo and sportier driving dynamics.
The roomier Subaru Impreza offers a better rear space which makes for a more comfortable ride than Elantra GT. Other than that, both offer similar range and comparable fuel economy. The engine of the Elantra GT, however, transmits more power and torque to the wheels. Also, its tout dimensions allow for easy parking in tight-spots, and the tighter turning radius complements easy maneuverability. Based on the aforementioned arguments, Elantra GT comes out as a clear winner.
2020 Subaru Impreza
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Final Verdict
7.5/10
The 2020 Elantra GT vigor and appeal remain unchanged. It achieves that hatchback utility with its exceptional cargo volume. Then, there's that remarkable interior with comfortable ride quality, which deliver a good overall driving experience. No doubt, it could use more power to become a sportier neck-snapping drive but then you have the Elantra GT N Line for that. Yes, its below-average fuel economy is something of a concern but its large fuel tank makes it a good choice, specially considering the ample safety and interior features, all available for a price of $20,650
