Hyundai Elantra (US) review

The Elantra SE starts at $21,625, though it’s pretty bare bones. Technically, the base equipment will get the job done, but looking at the number of cuts made to keep it that affordable reveals how this one’s meant for the rental fleets, not families.

Compare that with the next trim level up, the $23,575 SEL, and you’ll see what we mean. This one adds in features like satellite radio and dual climate controls, while many safety and tech features - such as the 10.3-inch digital displays - are included too. But a good chunk of the rest are tied up to a $1,750 convenience package.

Even so, it’s still more affordable than the sporty N-Line that throws in all of the SEL options as well as the quicker engine and dual-clutch transmission. That’s $28,464, though. A significant leap in price from the SEL.

In terms of the hybrid, the lesser of two trims, Blue, starts at $26,250 though it is missing out on a number of things that aren’t even available options, leaving the $29,450 Limited as the only real choice.

What would you recommend?

If it were us, the gas-only SEL with the convenience package would be the way to go. This one arguably remains in affordable car territory while throwing in all the bits that add up to a complete, convenient car. The hybrid Limited Elantra is good, but if we were in a mood to spend more than $30k, we wouldn’t be looking at the Elantra in the first place.

That said, the one wacky outlier here is the $33,700 Elantra N. With this one, the price seems actually reasonable for what you’re getting in return: a daily driver with a fully-fledged sports car shoved into the mix. Is it goofy looking? Sure, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a sedan this engaging for such a reasonable price.