We’re very impressed with the seventh-generation Hyundai Elantra, a terrific compact sedan with a choice of models ranging from a hybrid to the sporty N Line, and loads of standard features at a great price. For this reason, we have awarded it the KBB 2021 Best Buy Award and the 2021 5-Year Cost to Own Award in its class.
There are several different options for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, with the base SE ($19,650 plus $995 for destination) being powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Its 147 horsepower is plenty to keep the Elantra moving, and it returns 43 mpg on the highway.
Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, an 8-inch color display, Bluetooth, and HD Radio. As the base model, it has cloth seats, but it also comes with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, active high beams, and driver-attention monitor.
Next up is the SEL ($20,900) that comes with 16-inch wheels, a 6-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, push-button start, hands-free trunk release, and an optional sunroof. We like the top Limited trim, with 17-inch wheels, sunroof, leather upholstery, a bigger 10.25-inch screen, an 8-speaker audio system, and a dark chrome grille.
Hybrid and Performance Models
Beyond those levels, what you want depends on whether you’re going for fuel-saving efficiency or performance. The SEL Hybrid ($23,350) has a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine pairs with an electric motor to returns 56 mpg. It includes a 6-speaker audio system, cloth seats, and heated front seats. The Limited Hybrid ($28,100) has that 8-speaker audio system, leather upholstery, a sunroof, 10.25-inch screen with navigation, and heated front seats.
If performance is the name of the game, the top N Line ($24,100) gets a 1.6-liter 201-horsepower turbo 4-cylinder engine that mates to either a 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Also included are shift paddles (with automatic transmission), a sport suspension, rear spoiler, N Line details, 18-inch wheels, and a 6-speaker audio system.
Unless you want the sportiness of the N Line, the top Elantra is either the gas-powered or hybrid Limited, starting at $25,450 in gas trim or $28,100 for the hybrid. This includes leather upholstery and a sunroof. With a few choice options, the gas-powered Limited tops out at about $27,515 and the hybrid lists at about $31,000.
- 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and CVT or 1.6-liter + electric motor
- 17-inch wheels
- Sunroof
- Dark chrome grille
- Leather upholstery
- 8-speaker audio
- 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation
- Auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink $295
- Carpeted floor mats $155
- Winter Weather package $280
- Preferred Accessory package $140
- Cargo package $190
Leather upholstery
While the base model Elantra comes with perfectly good cloth seats, there’s nothing like the feel of leather. It’s stylish, it’s cool, and it’s comfortable and well worth the upgrade to the Limited trim.
10.25-inch screen with navigation
With infotainment features being increasingly controlled via touchscreens, our money is always on the upgrade of a larger screen. This display, standard in the Limited, includes a navigation system and a premium 8-speaker Bose audio system.
Auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink
With many cars equipped with bright LED headlights, an auto-dimming mirror helps you not be blinded by the car behind you. In this case, it includes the HomeLink system. This feature allows you to program your garage door opener and door lights for added convenience when you return home.
Cargo Package
A simple add-on, this package provides a tray to help protect your trunk. It also includes a cargo net to hold bags in place and blocks to keep items from sliding and moving. If that’s not enough, it includes a first-aid kit with all the necessities to soothe bumps and scrapes.
Winter Weather Package
If you live in a place with winter weather, this package provides rubber mats and mudguards to help protect your car’s interior and exterior from mud, snow, and salt.
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