PRLog (Press Release) – May 05, 2011 – At a time when many automobile makeovers are done with an eye to keeping the boat on an even keel — the new Honda Civic being a prime example — Hyundai took a completely different approach with its Elantra. To begin with, the new wave-like styling is far more attractive than the outgoing jellybean version. Similarly, desp 2011 Dodge Durango R / T ite an increase in overall size (wheelbase is up 50 millimetres to 2,700 mm), the current car is lighter. The end result is a leaner, meaner, more fuel-efficient compact that oozes potential — at least that's the initial impression.
2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 ;The latest Elantra is powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine that churns out 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque — decent numbers for a small-displacement engine. Much of the credit goes to the variable cam timing on both the intake and exhaust sides as well as a variable intake manifold. The combination sees the Elantra trot to 100 kilometres an hour in 10.4 seconds and accomplish the 80-to-120-km/h pass in 7.5 seconds. In an urban environment, these times and the power at play are enough to deal with the cut and thrust of a morning commute. However, ramp up the urgency of the drive and the engine gets ever louder at it stretches for redline. It's not enough to dissuade one from exercising the gas pedal, but it's enough to get one's
attention.
The Limited version puts its power to the pavement through a six-speed manumatic transmission, which slips through its gears seamlessly and is willing to kick down when the driver spurs it on. However, the transmission is tuned to deliver economy rather than outright performance. This shows up in the transmission's shift pattern and helps explain the acceleration times. Simply, fuel economy is better when the gearbox upshifts early — and this one does, sometimes to the point where it makes throttle response feel sluggish. In the end, the powertrain just does not come across as being as lively as some others in the compact segment.
The upside is found in the Elantra's fuel efficiency. At 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 4.9 L/100 km on the highway, this powertrain is 0.9 L/100 km better in both cycles than the outgoing powertrain — this despite the hike in horsepower. It also explains my week-long test average of 6.7 L/100 km.
Dynamically, the Elantra does not stray too far from the entry-level course. As such, there is some initial body roll — which speaks to a softer suspension setup — and the tires slip into understeer when pushed into a corner, even at a moderate pace. In fairness, the Limited's up-sized P215/45R17 tires are much less predisposed to understeer than the base car and its P195/65R15s. I also found the steering too light and the on-centre feel vague. Now, these comments must be tempered by the fact that the Elantra is not a sports car but an entry-level sedan. As such, it is more at home on an easy urban jaunt than it is being pushed through a series of sweepers.
The part of the suspension's makeup I really didn't care for was its reaction to larger bumps. The undulating motion caused by road imperfections was accompanied by some rather
unflattering noises. It was just not what I expected from an otherwise well-engineered car.
Inside, the Elantra Limited takes a huge step forward in terms of its visual appeal and overall quality. The sculpted dash, which mirrors the exterior's wave-like theme, is both attractive and functional. For example, the climate controls are the model of simplicity and the blue-hued screens for the climate, audio and clock functions add a distinctive flair to the overall execution. Likewise, the materials are pretty good. Yes, there's a lot of plastic, but it is of a richer quality than before. It all comes together nicely. The Limited also arrives with a boatload of equipment. The list of standard stuff runs from heated leather seats (the perforations in the leather pick up o first drive audi a6 n the wave theme, which adds continuity to the design) to a solid sound system, automatic climate control and a power sunroof before coming full circle to the heated rear seats. In fact, about the only option is a navigation system.
As for space, the Elantra is generous — it is more a mid-sized car than a compact sedan. There is s ni ssan GTR specification urprising front-seat legroom and, even with the front seats fully rearward, decent rear-seat space. However, the usual caveat applies here — avoid the centre position as it's poorly padded and uncomfortable. Likewise, at 14.8 cubic feet, the trunk is more than capable of accommodating a family amount of luggage.
The Elantra is a stylish ride that has adequate power, decent road manners and better than expected fuel economy. The Limited's plus is its feature-rich cabin. As such, if you're seeking a comfortable, well-appointed family sedan, the Elantra Limited works. That stated, I was left looking for a little more zest. The Elantra's overall performance does not match its outré style. A GT model along the lines of Honda's Civic Si would work wonders.
Visit Tameron Hyundai for your next test drive of the all new 2011 Elantra
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