The Good: High levels of comfort and quality
The Bad: Somewhat limited headroom
The Say: One of the great compacts in the market.
Go For: 1.6 GL
Avoid: 1.8 L
Price Range: P500,000-P750,000
Our Rating: ****
Full Review: Used Car Review - Hyundai Elantra (2011-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai Elantra
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2011-2013
2014-2015
Vehicle Overview
The first iteration of the Elantra is based on the Mitsubishi Mirage with succeeding versions are developed hands-on by Hyundai. 90s based models aren't remarkable (which the Philippine market got) and those developed at the turn of the millennium are better. What we are reviewing here is the fifth generation Elantra, which became popular for the brand locally.
Complementing its good looks are two engine options - a 1.6 and a 1.8 - which are powerful on the lower spectrum while having enough muscle for longer drives. Handling is on the balanced side but has a tendency of being heavy feeling due to a standard motor driven power steering with 2014 models gain Hyundai's Flexsteer that has three modes for the driver to use. Although the ride quality is smooth, driving this on poorly made roads will treat you for a rough ride.
A far cry from its predecessors plastic-filled interior (though cheap touches remain) is a dashboard that will make you mistaken for something that is expensive. Some models, depending on the year, get a fully integrated sound system. It is spacious inside however some passengers may complain for the lack of rear headroom due to the swoopy styling.
What Should I Get
We shall begin with the 2011 to 2013 model variants with two only offered. The base GL has a 129hp 1.6 engine bundled with all power features, airbag (manuals have their's on the driver side while automatics get two), ABS brakes, CD player with USB and auxiliary jack, alarm, keyless entry, and speed sensing door locks. The GLS would add the 148hp 1.8 engine, parking sensors, 60/40 fold rear seat, fog lamps, and steering wheel controls for the audio system. An update in January 2014 had the variants renamed with two more added with the E being the base model that has the 1.6 engine, all power features, a driver's airbag, keyless entry, CD player, and audio controls in the steering wheel. Next is the S that adds a passenger side airbag, ABS brakes, and alarm system while the 1.6 L gains parking sensors, reverse camera, 60/40 fold rear seats, push button start, rear aircon vents, and navigation system. The icing of the cake is the 1.8 L that adds stability control, leather seats, automatic climate control, and rain sensing wipers. There is no need to look beyond the 1.6 models since they are more than enough and we recommend either the GL (for 2011 to 2013 models) or the S (2014 to 2015) if you want one.
How Much Would It Cost Me
Keeping this baby wouldn't cost you an arm and a leg especially that maintenance costs are similar to Japanese rivals and parts are widespread. Although not much problems were reported, one thing to watch out for is the clock-spring in the steering system, which makes noises while steering.
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