I was looking for a small sports sedan under $20,000 that would be fun to drive, well-equipped, economical and feature an ample backseat for grandchildren and others. Before buying my Elantra GT sedan, I test-drove at least a dozen other cars in that price range. While the Elantra GT was not superlative in any one category, (handling, brakes, acceleration, style, features, economy)it did everything better than any other car I drove in its price range. The description "well-balanced" comes to mind.
I paid $11,800 for my year-old but brand-new GT, about $4,000 off MSRP, probably because it came with a 5-speed rather than an automatic transmission and I suppose the dealership grew tired of looking at in in their lot. The list of standard features are too numerous to mention here but a quick check at http://www.hyundaiusa.com/ will amaze the prospective buyer. The only optional feature my car came with was a power moonroof.
With its 138 HP 2 liter DOHC engine mated to a 5-speed, acceleration is deceptively quick, even with the air conditioning on. Interstate cruising is smooth and quiet with plenty of passing reserve. With 4-wheel disc brakes and 15" tires, the Elantra GT stops quickly from speed, even without ABS. I've been driving for 45 years and have never owned a car that handles and corners like the Elantra GT. With its re-calibrated shocks and larger anti-roll bars, it is well-mannered even in brisk cornering and I never have to fight the car to keep it under control.
The trip odometer calculates MPG's automatically after each fill-up and my Elantra GT is averaging just under 30 MPG....this on an engine with barely 1,000 miles on it.
Inside, the car has perfect ergonomics for a driver of my size (5'-10", 180 lbs) and the seats are firm and supportive. All controls, guages, and knobs fall easily to the hand and eye. The trunk, for a car this size, is enormous.
In summation, at this early date in ownership, I would declare my Hyundai Elantra GT sedan the best overall car I have ever owned. The Hyundai line has garnered several recent awards for quality and it is hard to argue with their 100,000 mile ten year warranty.
I would buy with confidence. It is a best bang for the buck.
Amount Paid (US$): 11,800
Condition: New
Model Year: 2003
Model and Options: Elantra GT sedan,