Hyundai Elantra
The sedan version of the 2013 Elantra continues to offer premium style and features at an economy car price point. Available in two trims, GLS and Limited, the Elantra packs a lot of car into a relatively small package. The GLS is the more basic of the two trims but still includes many uncommon features for a car at this price point, such as an iPod-ready 6-speaker stereo, heated mirrors and a tilting and telescoping steering column. Adding the Preferred Package to an automatic-equipped GLS Elantra will further increase equipment levels by adding steering wheel-mounted audio controls, heated front seats, fog lights, 16-inch alloy wheels and Bluetooth connectivity.
Buyers who opt for the Elantra Limited will get an Elantra packed full of features normally only seen on much more expensive cars. Starting with leather seats, the Limited features items such as 17-inch wheels, a tilting and sliding glass moonroof, heated front and rear seats, a power driver's seat with lumbar control and side mirrors with built in turn signals. Adding the technology package further enhances things, with a 7-inch screen housing a navigation system and rearview camera. Also included in the technology package are automatic headlights, dual zone climate control and an upgraded 360 watt stereo system.
The Hyundai Elantra GT is brand-new for 2013. A practical hatchback, the Elantra GT competes with the likes of the Ford Focus, the Mazda 3 and the VW Golf. The most tangible benefit of having a hatchback in place of a traditional trunk is of course, interior volume. Happily, the Elantra GT tops its competition in terms of space while also adding a certain sportiness. Weighing significantly less than its competitors, the Elantra GT reaps the dual benefits of improved handling and improved fuel economy. The slightly more upscale nature of the Elantra GT is also obvious in the list of interior accoutrements, featuring items like a cooled glovebox and a hidden rear camera for reversing.
The Elantra Coupe comes in two trim levels, GS and SE. Both models utilize the same powertrain as the rest of the Elantra line up, with a 1.8L 4-cylinder attached to a 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed automatic. Removing two doors has a nice effect on the cars styling, further highlighted by the more aggressive front fascia. Alloy wheels are standard on the coupe, 16-iches for the GS or 17-inches on the SE. The SE also benefits from nice touches like a leather wrapped shift knob, leather door inserts and a sport tuned suspension. The Elantra Coupe is an excellent choice for people who value good style in a small package.