2018 Hyundai Elantra
The 2018 Hyundai Elantra offers a compelling blend of value, fuel efficiency, and modern features in the compact sedan segment. Known for its comfortable ride, user-friendly technology, and solid warranty, the Elantra aimed to provide a practical and enjoyable ownership experience for a wide range of drivers.
Highlights
Engine & Performance:
- 1.6L GDI DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder Engine: This is the standard engine across most trims, delivering a balanced 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission, prioritizing fuel economy and a smooth driving experience over outright sportiness.
- 1.4L Turbocharged GDI DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder Engine (Eco Trim): This turbocharged option provides 128 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, but its primary advantage is enhanced fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious commuters. It's exclusively paired with a 7-speed EcoShift Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) for optimal mpg.
- 1.6L Turbocharged GDI DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder Engine (Sport Trim): For those seeking a more engaging drive, the Elantra Sport boasts a potent 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It offers a choice between a 6-speed manual transmission or the same 7-speed DCT found in the Eco trim, delivering a noticeably sportier feel.
Safety Features:
- Advanced Airbag System: Includes front, front-side, and full-length side-curtain airbags for comprehensive occupant protection in the event of a collision.
- Vehicle Stability Management (VSM): Works in conjunction with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to provide enhanced directional control during sudden maneuvers or on slippery surfaces, helping to prevent skids.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Helps reduce wheel spin during acceleration, particularly on slick surfaces, improving grip and stability.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): Optimizes the braking force to each wheel based on load and braking conditions, improving overall braking performance.
- Available Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Higher trims and optional packages offered features like:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Uses a camera and radar to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't respond.
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Uses a camera to monitor lane markings and can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane if it drifts unintentionally.
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW): Uses radar to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them with visual and audible warnings.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW): Alerts the driver of approaching vehicles from the sides when backing out of a parking space.
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW): Monitors driving patterns to detect signs of driver fatigue and can issue an alert to encourage a break.
Trim Summary:
- SE: The entry-level trim, offering a good foundation of features for the price.
- SEL: Adds popular comfort and convenience features over the SE, often including things like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- Value Edition: Builds upon the SEL with additional desirable features, often focusing on connectivity and driver aids.
- Sport: Differentiates itself with a more powerful turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension for a more dynamic driving experience.
- Limited: The top-tier trim, offering premium features, enhanced comfort, and the most advanced technology and safety systems.
Other Notable Aspects:
- Comfortable and Quiet Cabin: The Elantra generally impressed with its refined interior, offering a comfortable ride and a well-insulated cabin, making it suitable for longer journeys.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: Hyundai's infotainment systems are typically intuitive and easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration available on many trims for seamless smartphone connectivity.
- Excellent Warranty: Hyundai is known for its industry-leading warranty coverage, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, offering peace of mind for owners.
- Stylish Exterior Design: The 2018 Elantra featured a modern and attractive exterior design, with clean lines and a distinctive grille, giving it a sophisticated presence.
What to Expect
Ownership Experience: The 2018 Hyundai Elantra generally delivers a reliable and predictable ownership experience. Drivers can anticipate a comfortable ride quality that absorbs road imperfections well, making daily commutes and longer trips pleasant. The cabin is typically well-appointed for its class, with ergonomic seating and good visibility. The infotainment system, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, makes connecting and using your smartphone straightforward for navigation, music, and communication.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance for the Elantra is generally straightforward and affordable. Expect typical oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and brake checks as part of a regular maintenance schedule. Hyundai often provides a detailed owner's manual outlining recommended service intervals. Compared to luxury brands or more complex vehicles, maintenance costs are typically lower, contributing to its overall value proposition.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2018 Elantra are generally competitive within the compact sedan segment. Factors like your driving record, location, coverage levels, and the specific trim chosen will influence the exact cost. However, its strong safety ratings and the availability of advanced safety features can sometimes contribute to more favorable insurance rates.
Potential Considerations
- Base Engine Power: While adequate for everyday driving, the standard 1.6L engine might feel a bit underpowered for those accustomed to more spirited acceleration or who frequently drive with heavy loads.
- Transmission Behavior (DCT): The 7-speed DCT in the Eco and Sport trims, while efficient, can sometimes exhibit a slightly hesitant or jerky feel at very low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic for some drivers.
- Road Noise at Higher Speeds: While the cabin is generally quiet, some road noise can become more noticeable at highway speeds on rougher pavement.
- Rear Seat Space: While not cramped, the rear seat space might be a bit tighter for adult passengers on extended journeys compared to some larger competitors in the compact class.
- Interior Material Quality: While the interior is well-designed and functional, some of the plastics used in lower trims might feel a bit less premium than those found in some rivals.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Hyundai Elantra stands out as a well-rounded and practical choice in the compact sedan market. It excels in delivering a comfortable ride, user-friendly technology, and impressive fuel efficiency, particularly in its Eco variant. The availability of advanced safety features, coupled with Hyundai's industry-leading warranty, provides significant peace of mind and value for owners. While it may not offer the most thrilling driving dynamics in its base form, the Elantra Sport addresses this with a more potent powertrain. For buyers seeking a dependable, affordable, and feature-rich compact car, the 2018 Elantra remains a strong contender.
