After a conservative design period exemplified by the previous-generation Sonata and Elantra, Hyundai has returned to flamboyance with the current Sonata and Elantra The Elantra is fronted by a massive air intake in Hyundai’s signature six-cornered shape. Slim-line headlamps emerge like winglets off the upper extremities of the air intake. There is a prominent lip spoiler moulded in at the bottom of the front fascia as well as very au courant sharp-edged triangular elements at its lower extremities. The side profile is coupe-like, with a steeply raked roofline. The dramatic side profile features a prominent double arrowhead motif that some will find compelling and others superfluous. This polarizing design has been warmly embraced by the public and sales have been brisk. Rear styling is clean, with a sleek integration of the taillights.

The new Elantra is dimensionally similar to the outgoing car, but cabin space is improved. On premium trims, Hyundai has opted to replace conventional gauges with a long, narrow computer tablet, like the one Mercedes-Benz debuted in the now-discontinued A-Class, containing a digital gauge package as well as the infotainment screen. The dash centre stack contains the audio and climate controls which look straightforward and easy to use, a Hyundai hallmark. The rest of the cabin is attractive and some two-tone finishes are available. A wireless version of the iOS-Android cellphone interface is offered.

The engine is a 147 horsepower 2L four hooked up to a CVT. Hybrid power is available, which combines the efforts of an Atkinson-cycle 1.6L gas four and a 32 kW electric motor to create 139 total system horsepower. Power reaches the wheels via a six-speed dual clutch automated manual transmission. The N-Line is powered by a 1.6L turbo four, and the N is motivated by a 2L turbo four. Driven briefly, the 2L turbo N engine, in normal mode, is smooth, flexible and spins enthusiastically. Sport mode adds some additional exhaust sizzle, and selecting “N” mode adds even more fun. Driver’s can enjoy the Ssport or N modes while in the mood for fun but can switch them off to access pleasing refinement when driven more sedately. The six-speed manual transmission joins a snicky, short-hrow gearchange with a docile clutch. Steering is precise and beautifully weighted.

A free-standing infotainment screen sits at the top centre of the dashboard. Just below the centre dash vents are a volume knob and eight pushbuttons that control infotainment functions. The front sports seats of the N locate the driver well but never pinch. The comfortable seats are clad in a luxurious faux suede that also covers the central door panels. Though the car is low and the side windows are shallow, the driving position is very comfortable and visibility is good. Rear seat legroom is ample for this size of car.

With automatic transmission, alloy wheels, cruise control, the Bluetooth cellphone interface, forward collision warning, including for pedestrians, autonomous emergency braking and a lane keep assist sytems, the base Essential trim is very nicely equipped. The Preferred, with additional audio speakers, keyless go, leather wraps for the steering wheel and shifter, heated steering wheel and blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, is very good value. The Preferred Tech, which adds a sunroof, a Bose-branded audio system, navigation, a digital gauge package, a dual-zone auto climate control system, a sunroof and ambient lighting, is good value. The top 2L model, the Luxury, adds leather seats, enhanced cabin gtrim, wireless cellphone charging, a Bose-branded audio system and an active cruise control system, and is well worth picking. The hybrid version of the hybrid is priced $3200 more than its conventional 2L equivalent. Compared with the conventional Luxury model, the N Line, powered by a 201 horsepower 1.6L turbo four linked to a 7-speed dual clutch automated manual transmission, is priced $3200 more, with about $1400 devoted to additional equipment, with the balance attributable to the engine.

Delivery delays of from two to five months were quoted for the Elantra in early 2023. Few buyers opt for the high-value Essential, with almost half of buyers opting for the Preferred trim. The Tech package on the Preferred trim is very popular. The Luxury and N Line trims are not harder to obtain that lesser models as higher-end models seem to have priority than lesser ones in the production process.

Insufficient data, not rated. Predicted reliability is average to above average during the warranty period.