A mountain of good things can be said about the Hyundai Elantra. With a full redesign at the ready for 2021, this little sedan is now brought in line with the tantalizing Sonata in both interior polish, exterior design and technology. A leap in the right direction for sure.
On the outside, styling is dramatic and edgy. Sharp, crisp lines fold over the body like delicate origami. Angular and aggressive, making an immediately bold statement. Chrome window surrounds, LED lights at all four corners and 17” alloy wheels bring an extra layer of sophistication to the new Elantra.
Once inside, proud new owners will appreciate the class leading 10.25” fully digital display for navigation, vehicle settings, media control and all the in-betweens. Front seats are both supportive and comfortable. Leather trimmed with heating and ventilation. The color scheme is plenty of dark, contrasted with light. Neatly arranged and clutter free. A rich sounding Bose stereo is a nice touch, and the sunroof will let in plenty of natural light. Materials have a good feel and quality appearance, and assembly is solid. All forms of connectivity have been considered as well, with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Qi charging. Thankfully rear-seat capacity has increased slightly for the 2021 model year.
My Hybrid Limited model combined a 1.6L gasoline 4-cylinder engine with a 32 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous motor for 139 hp combined power output. Bolted to a 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, you’ll find acceleration to be plenty brisk. More importantly, the hybrid formula will net you 50 mpg highway and city combined. That’ll keep a lot of money in your pocket, and out of the atmosphere.
The new 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid finally received the big, next-gen redesign it needed to pull focus from segment heavy hitters like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. If more power and performance is on your radar, the N Line Elantra will surely scratch that itch and more. But for the more eco-minded and cost-conscious amongst us, this four door hybrid is hitting all the right notes, with 10-year, 100,000 mile warranties galore just for good measure.
Price as tested: $29,260.00
