NEW FOR 2016:
- New L+ trim level
- Larger (+1 mm) rear anti-roll bar
- Slight decline in power output for 1.8L engine
- New colours for L, L+, GL: Ice White, Platinum Silver, Polished Metal, Coast Blue.
Little has changed with Hyundai’s Elantra for model year 2016 other than a new L+ base trim that bundles automatic and air conditioning, and a handful of new colours for the entry and mid-level models.
Interestingly, Hyundai has made the Sport Appearance Package a no-cost optional extra compared to the GL with automatic transmission. It includes alloy wheels, a rear-view camera, fog lights and a power sunroof, which in turn makes it a very easy decision.
The ever-popular compact remains a modern-looking choice despite being on the market since 2011. As with all Hyundais, standard equipment levels are generous, as is the comprehensive warranty. You’ll also find unexpected niceties on mid-grade models including 17-inch alloy wheels, reverse camera, and even heated rear seats. Though it may not be as dynamically polished as the Euro-derived Elantra GT hatchback or some of its rivals, the Elantra is refined and comfortable enough for most buyers.
The Elantra is available with two engines. The L, L+ and GL use a 1.8-litre engine with 145 hp and 130 lb-ft of torque, which is down by 3 hp and 1 lb-ft for 2016; the L and GL feature a six-speed manual as standard, while the GL can be fitted with an optional six-speed automatic. The L+ and Sport Appearance Package both get the automatic as standard equipment. The GLS and Limited get a bigger, more powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder that makes 173 hp and 154 lb-ft of torque. The GLS can be had with a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic; the range-topping Limited gets the autobox as standard.
L trim features include 15-inch steel wheel with wheel covers, six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with iPod, USB and aux-in jacks, power locks, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, Driver Selectable Steering, dual heated power mirrors, body colour mirrors and door handles, sunglass holder, tilt steering column, dual 12-volt power outlets, hill-start assist control, power windows with driver's auto-down, 60/40 split folding rear seat with rear-seat armrest, sunvisors with vanity mirrors, and a trip computer.
The L+ trim adds standard air conditioning and a six-speed automatic transmission.
GL adds 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, automatic headlights, Bluetooth hands free phone system, heated front seats, keyless entry system with alarm, satellite radio, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, and telescopic steering wheel. The six-speed automatic is an option.
Sport Appearance adds six-speed automatic transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear-view camera, extending sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, fog lights, and power sunroof.
GLS adds cloth door inserts, heated rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob. The six-speed automatic is an option.
Limited adds 17-inch alloy wheels, six-speed automatic transmission, eight-way power driver's seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror with garage door opener, chrome beltline molding, chrome exterior door handles, chrome interior door handles, dark chrome lower front grille, deluxe door sill plates, deluxe sliding front centre armrest, dual-zone automatic temperature control, hood insulator, leather upholstery, leatherette door inserts, mirror-mounted turn signal indicators, power windows with driver's auto up/down and pinch protection, solar glass, projector beam headlights with LED accents, LED taillights, 7.0-inch touch-screen navigation system, and proximity key with push button start.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed