Following last year’s complete redesign, Hyundai made only minor trim level changes to the 2018 Elantra. But one thing remains constant: the Elantra has a lot to offer, and it is particularly worth checking out if you are looking for a rewarding, fun-to-drive hatchback that can be packed with tech features at an agreeable price.
There are six trim levels for the 2018 Hyundai Elantra. The model I test drove was the new 2018 Elantra GT Sport, a handsome little machine with a strong turbocharged engine. This the jaunty, more enthusiast-inspired GT Sport boasts a multilink independent suspension out back, a 15 mm rear stabilizer bar, higher front and rear spring rates, sport-tuned front and rear dampers, and 12-inch rotors in front.
Pulling out onto a Miami highway immediately reveals the Sport’s suspension is on the firmer side. Thankfully, the heavily bolstered leather seats do a fine job of holding one in place.
As I punched the throttle, the turbocharged 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four generating 201 hp and 195 pound-feet of torque quickly propelled the hatchback up to speed. With a downshift, the car is more than capable of passing at highway speeds. The engine is on the quieter side and is not buzzy on the highway. Road noise does not make its way into the interior, making the Sport a surprisingly good highway car.
But the main reason someone would get a GT Sport over the regular model, is for the sporty extras, so, of course, I found some curvy roads and had a blast.
The heavily weighted steering wheel conveys where and what the front wheels are doing well, the peppy engine enjoys life toward the top of the rev range, and the body remains rigid without any noticeable roll in corners. The car urged me to go quickly — and rewarded me for doing so.
Clearly, the new Elantra GT has sportiness in mind, reflected in the new exterior design which includes Hyundai’s recognizable cascading grille, vertical LED daytime running lights, and functional air curtains. The design theme continues out back, where available LED taillights, a rear spoiler, and an optional dual-exhaust system reveal the GT Sport means business.
Inside, Hyundai says the idea was to make good use of the available space, making the compact car’s interior feel as spacious as possible.
It translates to an uncluttered dashboard, prominently featuring an eight-inch display perched atop the dash rather than nestled into it.
From the front seats, you don’t feel cramped in the slightest.
Technophiles will find solace in the Elantra Sport’s infotainment system, which offers many of today’s most desired features as standard including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is a great driving car for its price — it undercuts rivals by thousands — and should appeal to budget-minded driving enthusiasts.
Hyundai has found the exact recipe for car enthusiasts who enjoy driving. It is finally here in the Elantra GT Sport.
The base price of the model I tested had a MSRP of $24,350. But with all the bells and whistles in the Sport Tech Package, like the panoramic sunroof; additional safety features, and extra Blue Link Connected Services, Multi-media Map, and Remote Start, my Elantra topped off at $29,210.
Fuel economy came in at a respectable 26 mpg city/ 32 mpg highway.
Grant Miller is the publisher of Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or via email at Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com.
