The Elantra has been around on the global market since 1990, but in 2001, it was officially the Elantra for most of them. If you’re looking for a used model, it doesn’t get much better than a Hyundai. We’ll be taking a look at the generations and what to expect from them. Here are some of the best used Hyundai Elantra reliability by model year.
Key takeaways
- The Elantra comes with a few performance options to pick from over the years, making it the perfect option for adrenaline junkies, and soccer moms alike.
- If you want the most mileage from your vehicle, look for a hybrid model. This will be able to get you 50 MPG.
- The Elantra has seen praise over the years for being a great vehicle, with two major car authorities giving it top awards.
- The most reliable one for you and your family will be the most recent generation, this is because it comes with more room.
Third Generation (2000-2005)
While the previous generation offered a hatchback, this one didn’t. Now coming as a five-door Liftback. In 2001, all American models came standard with front, and front-side airbags, air conditioning, power locks, power windows, and power steering.
In 2004, all models were refreshed, and with it came new head, and tail lights, a new grille, updated front, and rear bumpers, and a redesigned dash that added more functionality.
The Elantra came in a few trims, the GLS being the base, and the GT being the lineup topper. The GT came with a stiffer suspension, leather seats, fog lights, alloy wheels, lip spoiler, and a blue-lit cluster. Being that it was only offered as a Liftback, the only options were a power moonroof, and anti-lock brakes.
In 2003, the GT sedan was introduced, but was discontinued in 2005. For the 2006 model, the Limited trim joined the line. This features new paints, a chrome vertical grille, leather interior, and wood trim.
Fourth Generation (2006-2010)
When this generation came out, it only offered the 2.0L engine. If you find a 2007 GLS trim, you’ll find that it’s pretty barebones. It doesn't come with air conditioning, but thankfully, it does come with safety features.
For 2008, the Limited trim was dropped. This left behind the GLS, and SE trims. The SE came with features that were not included on the GLS to make the trim more appealing. This came with leather upholstery, and sunroof as options. The SE also had better handling, and braking over the GLS.
For the 2009 model, iPod, and USB interfaces became standard on the SE trim. This year also saw it be awarded JD Power’s highest quality compact car.
Fifth Generation (2011-2016)
When this generation launched, it brought a new engine, much like the last. This engine is the 1.8L I4. It has an EPA rated 32 MPG combined. Making it a strong dailey driver.
This model came in two trims. The trims were the GLS, and Limited trims. The best features were heated front and rear seats, proximity key entry with electronic push-button starts, and a touchscreen navigation system.
Some changes were added in 2012 and 2013. The biggest ones being an ActiveECO system being added to automatic transmissions, while manual models saw better standard equipment join the vehicle. If you find a 2013 Limited, you’ll be pleased to find that it comes with a power driver seat with lumbar support as a standard feature.
Big changes hit the line for the 2014 model. This saw the GLS be changed to the SE trim, while the all-new Sport trim became available. This came with an available 2.0L GDI engine.
Some interior changes this year were new HVAC vents, as well as a new control design. A 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen radio was added that came with a backup camera on the SE Preferred Package.
2016 saw the addition of the new Value Edition for the SE. This replaced an older package, and with it came a sunroof, leather steering wheel, and shifter. Heated front seats were also standard, and here in the North, heated features are always welcome.
Sixth Generation (2017-2020)
This generation went back down to two trim levels at release, these being the SE and Limited trims. If you’re wanting better fuel economy, then you can look for an ECO package from this generation. It equips the Elantra with a 1.4L I4 engine. This engine came with an EPA rating of 35 MPG combined. The SE model came with both manual and automatic transmissions that are paired to the 147 horsepower 2.0L I4.
In 2017, steering wheel audio controls became standard equipment across all trim levels. This year also saw the addition of the mid-level value edition trim.
This year the Sport was also released. This came with a more aggressive front, and rear bumper, as well as dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets. The engine that it comes with is the 1.6L I4 that produces 201 horsepower. Coming with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shift mode, or a traditional 6-speed manual. The Sport was ultimately discontinued in 2020.
Seventh Generation (2021-Present)
If you’re wanting more legroom, then this generation is the one for you. Going on sale in late 2020, this generation was selected as North American Car of the Year.
This generation was introduced in 2023, and came with three models. The gas version, the hybrid version, and the performance version.
If you find a hybrid model, you’ll be treated to an EPA estimated 50 MPG combined. This engine is a 1.6L that is paired with a 34 kW electric motor, and 1.3 kWh battery.
Final Thoughts
If you want a used Elantra, we would be happy to help. Come on down to Scarpa Motors today for more information!