2007 Hyundai Elantra Review

The Hyundai Elantra was launched in 1991 to replace the Hyundai Stellar. After a restyle in 1993, the second generation debuted for 1996. Available as a sedan or station wagon, it received a facelift after two years. Generation three, which debuted in 2001, was a massive leap forward in quality and safety feature. The wagon was ditched in favor of a hatchback, and a sporty GT trim was released in 2003, although it didn’t make it out of 2005. The Elantra is all new for 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Hyundai Elantra is an incredible value. For under $14,000, you can pick up an Elantra that’s loaded with safety features and gets excellent gas mileage. Hyundai’s superior warranty just makes the deal all the sweeter.

What’s New For 2007:

The Elantra is all-new for 2007. The new Elantra is now wider and taller. The chassis has been completely redesigned, making the car stiffer overall. The independent suspension is now fully independent. Luxurious options like heated seats and steering-wheel controls are now available.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

The Elantra earned four out of five stars in J.D. Power’s initial quality report. Automotive Information Systems gave the previous Elantra an overall green rating, although it noted moderate engine problems from 1999-2002. The 2001-02 Elantras had issues with squeaking clutches, corroding electrical connectors, and poor shifting. A total of eight recalls were issued for the previous Elantra. Expect average reliability. Hyundai’s basic warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Elantra earned five out of five stars in government frontal impact tests, and four out of five stars in side tests. The IIHS gave the Elantra its best “Good” rating for frontal impacts, but side and rear test information is not available. All trims come with anti-lock brakes, side airbags, and head restraints.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Good fuel economy
+ Terrific warranty
+ Safe

Cons
– Some cheap interior materials
– Noisy
– Bland exterior

Head-To-Head Competition:

There are a number of options for those looking for an inexpensive passenger car. The Chevrolet Aveo costs about the same, but comes with more comfort features, like air conditioning and a CD player standard. However, the Elantra trades those off for ABS, and a bit more horsepower. The Ford Focus is also in the same price range, but doesn’t include side airbags, ABS, or power accessories. The best competition for the Elantra is the Honda Fit, with standard CD player, air conditioning, better gas mileage, and loads more cargo capacity.

What Others Are Saying:

“The Elantra is a competent little set of wheels that hits all the marks on the good-small-car checklist.” – About.com

“The 2007 Hyundai Elantra SE is a comfortable, entertaining, and honest car that’s small on the outside and not so small inside.” – The Auto Channel

“The Elantra is in a market where buyers demand practicality, safety and economical operation – and often a little flair. It should do well.” – MSN

Read more about the 2007 Hyundai Elantra at the Hyundai manufacturer web site.