Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide
7.5
Overall Rating
This economy-minded hatch has solid foundation and built. It is an extremely well-crafted package with an elegant design but somewhat struggles to match up to its GT credo. Other than that it does everything quite remarkably. The 2020 Hyundai Elantra GT offers good fuel economy, class-leading cargo space and bulk of standard equipment for a starting MSRP of $20,650.
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.
7.5/10
Pricing and Features
7.0/10
Engine and Performance
6.0/10
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
Interior
8.0/10
Exterior
8.0/10
Safety
7.5/10
Competition
7.5/10
Final Verdict
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Pricing and Features
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 |
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|
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 |
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Leather seating surfaces |
|
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Proximity Key with push-button start |
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4.2-inch TFT display (Super Vision) |
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Dual automatic temperature control with auto defog |
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The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob |
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Power driver seat with lumbar |
|
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Heated front seats |
|
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Driver’s auto-up/down window |
|
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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
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.
That 161 hp, 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is paired with a 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission, the only choice offered. Now, the lack of AWD surely takes away the possibility of enhanced handling and control, still it is that four-pot which raises the major concerns. It somewhat demeans the overall performance of this GT hatch as it feels underpowered and starts humming at higher speeds.
|
Models |
Hyundai Elantra GT |
Honda Civic LX Hatchback |
Toyota Corolla SE Hatchback |
Subaru Impreza 5-Door |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP |
$20,650 |
$21,750 |
$20,290 |
$20,495 |
|
Engine |
2.0L Inline-4 |
1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
2.0L Inline-4 |
2.0L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | AWD |
|
Transmission |
6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatuc |
Continuously Variable Transmission |
10-speed CVT |
Lineartronic CVT |
|
Power (hp @ rpm) |
161@6,200 |
174@6,000 |
168@6,600 |
152@6,000 |
|
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) |
150@4,700 |
162@1,700 |
151@4,800 |
145@4,000 |
At lower revs, however, it throttles perfectly fine and the automatic transmission is responsive with shifts. All the other hatches, except the Honda Civic, get similarly sized 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. But it is the Honda Civic Hatchback's turbocharged inline-four which appears to be the most powerful on paper.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Also Read:
How reliable is the 2020 Elantra GT?
What differentiates the GT N Line with the base Elantra GT?
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Interior
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.
|
Model |
Hyundai Elantra GT |
Honda Civic LX Hatchback |
Toyota Corolla SE Hatchback |
Subaru Impreza 5-Door |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
39.1/56.2/42.2 |
39.3/56.9/42.3 |
38.4/53.9/42.0 |
39.8/56.7/43.1 |
|
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
38.5/55.4/34.8 |
37.4/55.0/36.0 |
37.6/54.5/29.9 |
37.2/55.6/36.5 |
Outward visibility is also good with minimal blind-spots. In all, this hatch's interior is its strongest suit. Even with its cramped second row, it is still a lot more spacious than the second row space offered by the Corolla hatch. That way, there is no beating the Honda Civic with its class-leading 36.0-inches of second row legroom.
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.
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.
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.
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Exterior
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 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.
Key Exterior features include:
- LED Daytime Running Lights
- Projector headlights
- Heated, dual power, side mirrors
- Driver’s blind spot mirror
- Bodycolor door handles
- Automatic headlight control
- 17-inch wheels
- Roof-mounted spoiler
- Dual-exhaust tips
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Safety
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.
Other Standard Key Safety Features include:
- ABS and Brake Assist
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Vehicle Stability Management
- Electronic Stability Control
- Hillstart Assist Control
- Airbags
- LATCH and child safety locks
- Blind-spot collision warning
- Forward-collision avoidance assist w/pedestrian detection
- Lane keep assist
- High beam assist
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Competition
Hyundai Elantra GT vs Honda Civic Hatchback
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.
Hyundai Elantra GT Vs Toyota Corolla Hatchback
The Toyota Corolla is more powerful than the Hyundai Elantra GT with its 168 hp inline four-cylinder engine. It even offers a choice of a manual transmission, which is otherwise missing in the Hyundai Elantra GT, and returns better fuel economy. However, the Toyota Corolla trails in terms of cargo space, capable handling and sophisticated interiors. But then it has a much better reliability rating.
Hyundai Elantra GT Vs Subaru Impreza 5-Door
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 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Final Verdict
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
Also Read:
Can the Elantra GT outbest the Corolla Hatchback?
Is the Elantra GT better than the Civic Hatchback?
The complete buying guide to own a 2020 Elantra GT is right here
What makes the 2020 Elantra GT better than the 2020 Civic Hatchback?
What makes Hyundai Elantra GT better than Corolla Hatchback?
Is Hyundai Elantra GT a better compact car than Honda Civic Hatchback?
Is the Hyundai Elantra GT's cabin better than even the Toyota Corolla hatchback?
How exclusive is the cabin of the Elantra GT N Line?
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2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback Latest Update
2020 Hyundai Elantra Consumer Reviews and Ratings
based on 2 ratings
POPULAR TAGS
2020 Hyundai Elantra Overall Reviews
User Overall Rating
Posted On: August 10, 2020
Elantra Gt justifies the price very well
Pros - Sunroof, stylish interiors, heated seats
Cons - Inaccurate tire pressure monitor, cargo space
Drives quite smooth and refined. Comes with many advanced features to help with the everyday driving. Practical and good priced car. Drives quite smooth and refined. Comes with many advanced features to help with the everyday driving. Just style package which has just about everything to make it shine even more Regular plastic interiors and one would not expect anything fancy in this price point. The execution is perfect and it's commendable how they have crafted such simple yet appealing interiors without any significant bump in the price. While cargo is not a strong point of this car and has sub-par space there, legroom in both rows is quite generous and doesn't by any means feel like a small car while inside. Came with heated seats and a panoramic sunroof which makes every drive even more intresting and comfortable than before. Nothing fancy on the outside as well but not bad either. Body colored almost everything expect the front honeycomb grlle which comes with chrome accent. Love the design and styling Tire pressure monitor from day one has been unreliable. I've started to ignore it since I know the pressure it shows is not even close, forget accurate. It's just tire pressure monitor which might be faulty, everything else is perfect Leased at a wonderul price. Couldn't have asked for a better deal. Sewell is the man. All because of him we got a beautiful car with even better price
User Overall Rating
Posted On: February 22, 2021
A great car with affordability.
Pros - Good for daily drives and very affordable.
Cons - MPG is less
High performing elantra It is a good car if you get it for the right price. I would definitely recommend getting pre-owned great i get somewhere around 33-35 combined. Performance is excellent! Easy handling and safety features reach far beyond anything I ever thought possible. Best car I've ever one which can be more cost friendly. MPG is not that owned or used.
