2013 Hyundai Elantra Review

Overview

With refined styling, fuel economic engine, latest safety features, and upscale options, 2013 Hyundai Elantra continues to be top pick for a compact sedan in its class.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2013 Elantra is powered by an all-new 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine rated at 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque (145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque for Elantra PZEV). The Elantra delivers 29 mpg in city and 40 mpg on highway with the six-speed automatic transmission or manual transmission. The key engine components are aluminum block and head, Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), Variable Induction System (VIS), Roller swing arm and Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLA), electronic throttle control and offset crankshaft. The trunk capacity stands at 14.8 cubic feet.

Build and Styling

The 2013 Elantra GLS base model includes 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors and keyless entry. The interior is equipped with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, trip computer and full power accessories. A tilt-only steering wheel and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface are other key features inside. The Popular Equipment package adds 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control and a telescoping steering wheel to the GLS. The Preferred Equipment package comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, a sliding armrest on the center console, Bluetooth, illuminated vanity mirrors and sun visor extensions, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. The upscale Limited comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and heated front and rear seats. An available Navigation package adds automatic headlights, keyless ignition/entry (Limited only), a navigation system, a rearview camera, real-time traffic and weather updates and a premium 360-watt audio system for both trim levels.

Safety Features

Driver and front passenger airbags and front and rear passenger side air curtains; front seatbelt pre-tensioners; LATCH; rear child safety locks; anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and four-wheel disc brakes; electronic stability control with traction control and brake assist; tire pressure monitoring system; energy-absorbing steering column; anti-theft system integrated with remote key-less entry and panic feature; and front and rear crumple zones are some of the many safety aspects on the Hyundai Elantra.