A few months ago, we tested Hyundai’s newest compact-sedan car, the Elantra. While driving the Elantra on the crowded Metropolis, we felt that Hyundai had slowly gain its momentum to be the most “stylish and innovative” car in Asian market today. So when asked to make our driving impression about their car—we quickly responded on getting behind the wheel with the new Hyundai Elantra.
Outside, you might mistake the Elantra as Sonata—as both vehicles share the same DNA styling. The Elantra displays a unique “wind craft” signature bodyline, characterized by dynamic contours and a gently sloping outline, all derived from Hyundai’s “Fluidic” design philosophy. The big difference, however, dwells on the size, as the Sonata is technically bigger than the Elantra.
Obviously, the styling is a big story. Compared to Hyundai Sonata, the Elantra is more aggressive and athletic. The 5th generation Elantra also maintains Hyundai’s iconic hexagonal grille, adding to its overall style while protecting the engine. Looking back on years, it’s good to see that Hyundai intends to take the Elantra in a “sporty and modern” design direction.
Other exterior features include distinctly shaped halogen headlights; front fog lamps; 15-inch alloy wheels; and power side mirrors (with electric-heated function).
If we got stunned on Elantra’s exterior, the interior is no exemption. There’s also a standard air-conditioning that ensures perfect cabin temperature. To keep the occupants entertained, the Elantra is equipped AM/FM tuner, CD, MP3, WMA, USB and aux-in port audio system.
The cabin is relatively quiet and the ride is smooth at highway speeds.
Power is not a problem with the Elantra. The test unit that we tested was the 1.6-liter Gamma MPI 6-speed manual transmission engine. The MacPherson strut and coupled torsion beam axle installed on the front and rear chassis respectively, compliment the steering system, providing added stability and smooth drive.
Safety features in the Elantra include: anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) technology; airbags; and 3-point emergency locking retractors. The Elantra gives us decent fuel consumption as the vehicle logged a 10-kilometers per liter in combined city and highway driving.
At Php. 798,000 on its starting price, the Hyundai Elantra is one of the best deal that car buyer should consider.
Specifications
Vehicle 2011 Hyundai Elantra GL
Type Compact Sedan
Engine 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve
Maximum power 130 ps @ 6,300 rpm
Maximum torque 16.0-kg-m @ 4,850 rpm
Transmission 6-speed M/T
Dimensions
Length 4,530 mm
Width 1,775 mm
Height 1,445 mm
Wheelbase 2,700 mm
Wheel size and type 15-inch alloy
Tire size 195/65 R15
Price as tested P798,000
