2023 Hyundai Elantra Review

In its review, the U.S. News and World Report lists the Elantra’s spacious cabin at the top of its list of positive traits. That is very important in the compact sedan class. Hyundai engineers worked to squeeze more room at every passenger position. A plush ride and comfortable seats make daily travel pleasurable.

Many shoppers are shocked when they discover just how roomy the second row is. It offers 38 inches of legroom. This is remarkable in a class where 35 inches is considered good and 33 inches is considered normal.

The trunk measures 14.2 cubic feet. This is considered above average in the compact sedan class. Second-row seats can fold flat.

The Elantra looks sharp and distinctive, especially when compared to others in its class. The defined lines and shaping give it a confident stance. Limited trims are set apart by their 17-inch alloy wheels and darkened grille.

N-Line models have an aerodynamic grille design and exciting 19-inch alloy wheels. With its rear wing and other sport details, the N model looks like the performance car it is.

Value is packed into the 2023 Elantra SE. This base level package is so well equipped that many people don’t feel the need to step up to another trim. The trim level has the full dash tech system and a long, long list of driver assistance technologies.

The Elantra SEL trim level is really a bargain. It doesn’t cost much more than the SE, but it piles on favorite standards. The cabin has more dash tech and push button start.

Dual-zone automatic climate control regulates the air conditioning. Keyless entry and keyless ignition allow the SEL driver to keep their key in pocket or purse.

The SEL Convenience package adds more reasons to love the Elantra. New for 2023, this package includes both the digital instrumentation screen and the larger navigation touch screen. Drivers will like adaptive cruise control and an expanded forward collision system. Additional tech features include the wireless charger and a second-row USB port.

In the Elantra N-Line, you don’t need the convenience package because most of these things are included. The N-Line driver enjoys a power-adjustable chair. Everyone can enjoy the handsome cloth-and-leatherette upholstery.

The N Trim has sport bucket seating, and the vehicle has a better center of gravity to allow for racier driving. The interior features dual screens, a high-tech N-specific steering wheel and a special N shifter.

The 2023 Elantra Hybrid has a Blue trim level as its introductory package. The Blue has extras such as the blind spot collision-avoidance assist and heated front seats.

Elantra Hybrid Limited models have ventilated front seats, the navigation touchscreen, and leather upholstery.

The standard Hyundai Elantra Limited has leather seats, a sunroof, and an 8-speaker Bose system. The exterior is upgraded with rear parking sensors and LED headlights. Drivers enjoy the benefits of semi-automated Highway Driving Assist.

If you choose this Elantra, you can get features that you will never find on the 2022 Toyota Corolla or 2022 Honda Civic. The Hyundai Digital Key allows your phone to take care of the same duties as a key. The reverse parking autobrake is another feature hard to find in this price range.

On the dash, the driver has an 8-inch color touch screen to assist with infotainment and navigation. You can stream Apple Maps or Google Maps via wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This puts your maps right on the screen and allows for verbal turn-by-turn directions. There are two USB ports for smartphones and other devices.

The second screen is a digital instrumentation display behind the steering wheel. Drivers can rely on it to tell them everything from fuel economy to pedestrian detection warnings.

New for 2023, the dual screens are both 10.25 inches. Built-in navigation makes it easy to find your destination.

The Elantra SE driver commands a 147-horsepower four cylinder engine that can earn 33 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. That fuel efficiency, based on EPA estimates, is evidence that this inexpensive car will have low operating costs. A stop-start feature allows the driver to save fuel at redlights and other long idles.

Stepping up from the base engine, the driver will enjoy a 201-horsepower turbo in the Elantra N-Line trim level. This powertrain is mated with a sport-tuned suspension and a 7-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is still good, earning 28/36 mpg in city/highway driving.

The 2023 Elantra N has an 8-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission to ensure the sharpest possible shifts. Extra rigidity is assured by the red rear chassis brace. It has a special differential. This N Corner Carving eLSD improves traction, reduces understeer, and permits higher turning speeds.

N models have a special N driving mode and Launch Control. These features help the driver make the most of the vehicle’s 276 horsepower engine. The torque rate is 289 pound-feet.

If you are concerned about safety, you should know that the Hyundai Elantra 2023 has a good record. At the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, it is considered a Top Safety Pick. At the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it manages to garner the federal 5-star safety rating.

The package of safety features includes an emergency autobrake, a forward collision warning, and pedestrian watch. This system can be upgraded to include junction-turning detection and cyclist watch. Smart Cruise Control has a stop-and-go capability for busy traffic.

A rear cross traffic warning and blind spot warning keep the driver apprised of side dangers. These have avoidance assist capability to maximize effectiveness. Likewise, the lane keeper can assist with straightening the car’s trajectory. A lane following assist lets you know when leader traffic is moving.

Phoenix AZ parents will appreciate that the rear occupant alert and safe exit warning are now standard features on all Elantras. The occupant alert recognizes when the rear doors were opened at the beginning of a trip. Then it helps caregivers remember to check the backseat when leaving.

The exit warning tries to keep passengers from stepping out into traffic. While no device can guarantee safety, this aims to help parents keep their kids out of danger.

All 3 positions can be used for carseats due to the standard LATCH attachments. Even better, the larger back row benefits parents who are installing car seats. Even in the rear-facing position, infant carriers won’t affect the front row seat position.

There was a time when having a rearview camera was a luxury. Now you’ll find one on every Elantra. Even better, these cars have a rear traffic alert that includes braking capability. This avoidance assist is just what every driver needs in busy parking lots or even when backing out of a driveway.

Even better, the Limited also has front and rear parking sensors. This adds to the drivers ability to handle tight squeezes. Punching way above its small car class, the Elantra Limited has a collision-avoidance assist that may trigger the autobrake when the vehicle is in reverse.

All of these devices make parking safer. This should help the Elantra owner maintain their vehicle, avoiding the scrapes and dings that can happen in a parking lot. Furthermore, it should mean better days for the owner and passengers who will not lose time due to a collision.

The Elantra price begins at $20,500. Some $2,000 less than the cheapest Honda Civic, the Elantra keeps its price advantage even if you climb the trim ladder. Even better, the Elantra is the better value package.

It also offers several features that are not yet available on rivals. Perhaps the most significant is the Digital Key. Usually offered only on luxury cars, the Elantra offers this important smartphone app. It allows drivers to access and drive their Elantra with only their phone acting as the digital key.

You can scroll through our online inventory to find out what’s available. Make a date to take a test drive.