2009 Hyundai Elantra Sedan
On sale since 1991, the Hyundai Elantra is now in its fourth generation (last redesigned for 2007). Available as a 4-door sedan or wagon, the standard powerplant for the front-wheel-drive model is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. With the optional 4-speed automatic transmission, the Elantra earned 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway in EPA testing. The suspension is independent front and rear, and disc brakes are standard at all four corners. An anti-lock brake system (ABS) is also standard. The Hyundai Elantra ranked among the top three models in its segment in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS). In addition, in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests, the Elantra Sedan earned “5-star” crash test scores—just keep in mind that frontal crash ratings for small cars apply only if the car impacts another vehicle of about the same size and weight. For 2009, the Elantra SE models receive standard stability control, a USB port for the audio system, and standard XM satellite radio. A 4-door wagon model will also join the lineup.
2009 Small Cars Buyer's Guide
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