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The all-new, fourth-generation Elantra sedan marks another big step forward for Hyundai.
From the almost complete isolation of road and wind noise to the way the controls feel and work; from the silkiness of the engine to the sound the doors make when closed, this car feels and acts like a more expensive vehicle.
The 2006 J.D. Power and Associates' Initial Quality Survey (IQS) placed Hyundai ahead of both Toyota and Honda and below only Lexus and Porsche among all car companies. The ability to attain these results comes from carefully monitoring customer feedback and making necessary changes or improvements quickly, during production runs if possible, rather than waiting for a new model. But when that time comes, Hyundai has shown a remarkable propensity for advancement.
The distinctive styling of the new model allows it to stand out in the most crowded segment of the market. Hyundai has pushed its design staff to match the progress it has made in quality and engineering, resulting in numerous upscale details and an overall sense of elegance. From the chrome-slotted grille through the sweeping character line along the side and over-big wheels, to the unique rear quarters, this is a sharp-looking small car.
Although slightly shorter in overall length than the last model, the 65-mm taller roofline, 40-mm wheelbase stretch and 50-mm greater width, combined with careful attention to packaging, make the 2007 Elantra larger inside than the outgoing model. The American Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies it as a mid-size car.
The instrument panel is attractive and informative with a sweeping design that places a quartet of analogue instruments beneath a protective hood and the audio controls high atop the centre stack for minimal eye movement. Three large round knobs control the ventilation system and they are well located beneath the audio system. Blue lighting is easy to read at night and sharpens things up in bright daylight allowing terrific visibility under sunny conditions.
The driver's seat has been raised 46 mm for easier entry and exit and improved visibility. There is more head, leg and shoulder room for rear seat occupants. The rear seat splits 60/40 and either side can be collapsed with a tug from a trunk-mounted handle.
Beneath the hood rests a modern 2.0-litre 4-cylinder putting out 138 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. It is willing to rev and is not offensive to the ears when doing so. Two transmissions are available: a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.
Improvements to ride and handling deserve praise. Both wind and noise levels are uncommonly low for this class and the shock absorbers are a considerable improvement with great control over undulating surfaces. The ride is more composed in these situations and handling and steering response are sharper.
The Elantra is available in five trim levels: GL, GL Comfort, GL Comfort Plus, GL Sport and GLS. At $15,595, the GL is a value package. The $17,995 GL Comfort has features like power, heated mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, air conditioning, front centre armrest and storage console, a rear seat centre armrest, height-adjustable driver seat, heated front seats and upgraded audio system.
Not only do you get multi-channel ABS and four-wheel disc brakes on the $19,295 GL Comfort Plus, but active head restraints and both side-curtain and side impact airbags. The Sport, with 16-inch wheels, fog lamps and sunroof is $20,595 and the $23,095 GLS adds a 4-speed automatic to the mix. |