Used 2007 Hyundai Elantra

As part of Hyundai’s program to update or introduce several new models, from its flagship Azera to the entry-level Accent and a luxury sedan coming in 2008, the Korean manufacturer has rejuvenated and revitalized its mid-size Elantra four-door sedan. For 2007 it’s been given a high priority on safety, and it’s now a spacious, fuel- and budget-conscious car that can comfortably pack in a family of five and its cargo. From front to rear, the Elantra’s new styling, interior and engineering qualifies this fourth-generation version as a fully contemporary and economical sedan, and it’s available in three trim levels: basic GLS, sporty SE and upscale Limited.

Zippy little engines are no longer a surprise in economy cars, but the SE’s 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, 138-horsepower CVVT ULEV engine, teamed with the five-speed transmission, is particularly impressive, especially on uphill climbs. Quieter than one might expect, engine noise is drowned out by wind and tire noise when the windows are rolled down. Ride and performance are average, with handling far more responsive than the previous version. A comfortable car to drive, the Elantra feels secure and reliable, and its owners will likely appreciate its straight-forward predictability and control.

The interior is comfortable, functional and spacious, with well-padded seating, but not necessarily an example of modern style. The SE’s somewhat dated-looking velvety seat fabric, the instrument panel with its expanses of plastic and the over-designed door panels appear a little old-fashioned. Otherwise, the roominess, headroom and rear-seat legroom are welcome in a car of this size, the trunk is exceptionally deep and large, the rear seats split 60/40 for added convenience and an auxiliary jack and power outlet allow for plug-in accessories.

The impressive exterior styling, with its clean lines and sculpted body sides, borrows design characteristics from the larger and more expensive Azera. With increased width, the 2007 Elantra has a wider stance than the 2006 model, and the short decklid covers a generous trunk. Prominent among the pleasing exterior appearance features is the grille, with three horizontal bars, finely integrated headlights and a two-bar air duct with corner lamps.

Audio System Controls
Steering wheel-mounted audio controls are a huge convenience and are standard with the Elantra SE. Nestled neatly into the left side of the wheel, the flush-mounted buttons for Volume, Seek and Mode are within easy reach.

Ample Trunk
The generously-sized trunk stretches into the car and, with the 60/40-split rear seat folded down, the space is even larger.

The SE’s generous list of standard equipment includes air conditioning, tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, remote keyless entry with alarm, power locks/windows/mirrors, a sunglass holder and rear window defroster. In addition to the front, side-impact and side-curtain airbags, other safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS) with four-wheel discs, active head restraints and available fog lights.

If carpeted floor mats are all you want to add, you’ll pay just a little extra for them, but most buyers will likely want the four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and lockup torque converter, as well. The only other options on the SE are a power sunroof and heated seats. On the GLS model, the optional cruise control also includes fog lights. Optional on the Limited is a more powerful audio system, and XM satellite radio is available on all three trim levels.

A competent 2.0-liter super-clean engine powers all three Elantra models, scoring high on the EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide. The combination of Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and dual overhead camshafts gives the engine a very broad power spread, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. The manual transmission helps get the most out of the engine.

2.0-liter in-line 4 (ULEV)
138 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
136 lb.-ft of torque @ 4600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 28/36 (manual and automatic)

2.0-liter in-line 4 (PZEV)
132 horsepower @6000 rpm
133 lb.-ft of torque @ 4600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 28/36 (automatic)