2017 Hyundai Elantra GT: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT offers a compelling blend of sporty styling, practical versatility, and well-equipped features, making it a strong contender in the compact hatchback segment. Building on the Elantra sedan's reputation for value, the GT variant adds a dose of youthful exuberance and cargo-carrying capability.
Highlights
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Engine & Performance: The 2017 Elantra GT is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing a respectable 164 horsepower. This engine is paired with either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an available six-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain delivers adequate acceleration for daily driving and a surprisingly engaging experience for those who enjoy a bit of spirited driving. Its handling is composed and predictable, with a focus on comfortable ride quality rather than outright sportiness.
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Safety Features: Hyundai prioritizes safety, and the 2017 Elantra GT is no exception. Standard safety equipment includes:
- Antilock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skids and loss of traction by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Reduces wheel spin during acceleration, improving grip on slippery surfaces.
- Seven Airbags: Including front, side-impact, curtain, and a driver's knee airbag, providing comprehensive occupant protection in the event of a collision.
- Anti-whiplash Head Restraints: Designed to minimize whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.
Available advanced safety features, often bundled in optional packages or on higher trims, could include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Pedestrian Detection: Uses radar and cameras to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't react.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver when the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated.
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Not only warns the driver but can also provide gentle steering input to keep the vehicle centered within its lane.
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW): Uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them with visual and audible warnings.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW): Aids in backing out of parking spaces by detecting approaching vehicles from the sides and alerting the driver.
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Trim Summary: The 2017 Elantra GT was offered in two primary trims:
- Elantra GT: The well-equipped base model, offering a solid foundation of features for everyday convenience and comfort.
- Elantra GT Sport: This sportier variant typically added more desirable features, often including upgraded wheels, a sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling, a sportier exterior appearance, and potentially interior comfort and technology enhancements.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Versatile Cargo Space: As a hatchback, the Elantra GT boasts a more practical cargo area than its sedan counterpart, with split-folding rear seats that significantly expand its carrying capacity for luggage, groceries, or larger items.
- Stylish Exterior Design: The Elantra GT features a distinctive and attractive design, with a sporty silhouette and clean lines that set it apart from some of its more conservative rivals.
- User-Friendly Interior: The cabin is generally well-laid out, with intuitive controls and comfortable seating. The infotainment system, depending on the trim and optional packages, offered features like touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
What to Expect
The typical ownership experience of a 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT is generally positive and predictable. Hyundai vehicles are known for their reliability, and the Elantra GT should provide a dependable daily driver.
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Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, should be straightforward and cost-effective. Access to parts and service is widely available through Hyundai dealerships and independent mechanics. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule will be crucial for maximizing the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
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Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2017 Elantra GT are typically competitive within its class. Factors influencing your specific premiums will include your driving record, location, age, and the chosen coverage levels. It's always advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best rate.
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Ownership Experience: Expect a comfortable and competent driving experience for everyday commuting and family duties. The cabin is usually quiet for its class, and the ride quality is well-balanced, absorbing most road imperfections. The hatchback utility makes it a practical choice for those who need more cargo flexibility than a sedan.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Elantra GT is a strong offering, potential buyers should be aware of a few points:
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Underpowered Base Engine for Enthusiasts: While the 2.0-liter engine is adequate, some drivers seeking more enthusiastic acceleration, especially when fully loaded or at higher altitudes, might find it a bit lacking. The "Sport" trim aims to address some of this with its sport-tuned suspension, but the core engine power remains the same.
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Infotainment System Responsiveness (Early Models): Depending on the specific infotainment system equipped (especially if it lacked Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in the base model), some users might find the interface slightly less responsive or intuitive compared to later model years or more premium competitors.
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Rear Seat Space: While generally comfortable, the rear seat space might feel a bit tight for larger adults on longer journeys, particularly when three passengers are present.
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Road Noise at Higher Speeds: On some surfaces or at highway speeds, there can be a noticeable amount of road noise intrusion into the cabin, which is not uncommon for this segment but might be a factor for those prioritizing a whisper-quiet ride.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT stands out as a stylish, practical, and well-equipped compact hatchback that offers excellent value. Its combination of a competent powertrain, a comfortable ride, a user-friendly interior, and a good array of standard and available safety features make it a sensible and appealing choice. While not the most powerful or the most refined in its class, its overall package, particularly its versatility and appealing design, makes it a compelling option for buyers seeking a reliable and enjoyable everyday vehicle.