2008 Hyundai Elantra [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 26 Elantra reviews and test drives.
Hyundai Elantra - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Hyundai Elantra ranks 6 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 26 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Elantra, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Elantra delivers a relatively inexpensive base price, plenty of safety features and a fun drive.
The 2008 Hyundai Elantra is largely praised as a well-equipped, spacious and pleasing vehicle at a good price. According to our analysis, the Elantra is an attractive choice for the budget-buyer in a weak economy, and it offers a lengthy warranty, but several auto writers report there is minimal driver satisfaction.
Redesigned in 2007, this year's Elantra is available in two trims: the base GLS and the SE. For 2008, Hyundai dropped the Elantra's top of the line Limited trim, and many of its features are now included in an optional package for the SE. All models have a choice of a standard five-speed manual transmission and an optional four-speed automatic transmission. If you're interested in an affordable small car, you should also consider the Honda Civic.
- "The Hyundai Elantra offers a roomy interior for the class, a good package of safety equipment, and a strong warranty. Redesigned in 2007, the styling holds its own in the class." -- New Car Test Drive
- "The latest Elantra is bigger than the previous edition, and if it's not exciting, it is a good value." -- Car and Driver
- "The Elantra faces tough competition, and compares very well with the best-known cars in the compact class." -- The Auto Channel
- "Witness the evolution of a winner." -- Orlando Sentinel
- "Hyundai has become a favorite with the kind of people who sharpen their pencils before making their purchase. These days, Hyundai gives them value and quality, not cheapness." -- Automobile Magazine
- "The Elantra is a competent little set of wheels that hits all the marks on the good-small-car checklist. High fuel economy? Check. Safety equipment? Check. Passenger and trunk space? Check. Long warranty? Yep. Inexpensive price? Check -- it still undercuts its Japanese competitors, though the price gap is narrowing. … What the Elantra lacks is pizzazz." -- About.com
Elantra Performance - 7.5 (Good)
Most reviewers agree that the 2008 Hyundai Elantra offers adequate -- but not stellar -- performance for its class. Automobile Magazine writes, "The Elantra isn't a sport sedan, but like a Ford Focus, it always feels composed, even when you throw the corners of Mulholland Highway at it." Continue with our full Performance Review for a thorough analysis of the Elantra's curve-hugging and sure stops. continue
Elantra Exterior - 7.4 (Good)
Reviewers appreciate the exterior styling of the 2008 Hyundai Elantra. As The Auto Channel says, "The adjective 'boxy' will not be used to describe the new Elantra. Its rounded, flowing lines are almost coupe-like." Check out the Hyundai Elantra Photo Gallery for images of the coupe-like lines, or continue with our full Exterior Review for more descriptions of the Elantra's design. continue
Elantra Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)
Despite some reservations on fit and finish, most are impressed with the 2008 Hyundai Elantra's combination of quality design and materials. Check out the Hyundai Elantra Photo Gallery for images of the five-seater, or continue with our full Interior Review to learn more about the 2008 Elantra's "Sun & Sound" Package. continue
Elantra Safety - 9.2 (Excellent)
The 2008 Hyundai Elantra does well in government crash tests, and critics in general praise the 2008 Elantra's "comprehensive array of safety equipment," as Car and Driver puts it. Continue with our full Safety Review for a full listing of the sedan's passive and active safety features. continue
Elantra Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Hyundai Elantra reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Hyundai provides a stellar five-year or 60,000 mile limited warranty for its Elantra. Continue with our full Reliability Review for information on Hyundai's lengthy powertrain coverage. continue
