2020 Hyundai Elantra

Overview

True to its maker's roots, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra is a no-nonsense, value-packed compact sedan. Every Elantra is a veritable bargain thanks to a long list of standard equipment. While the interior materials are decidedly budget-spec, the Elantra is easy to live with thanks in part to the intuitive, standard touchscreen that works with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The base engine is a competent but unexceptional 2.0-liter inline-four. More discerning buyers should look at either of the turbocharged models. The Elantra Eco is rated at 41 mpg on the highway, while the Elantra Sport makes a strong 201 horsepower.

What's New for 2020?

For the 2020 model year, Hyundai replaced the six-speed automatic transmission in the Elantra SE, SEL, Value Edition, and Limited with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). That change boosts combined and city EPA fuel-economy ratings by 2 mpg, while the highway figures increase by three. The Eco model is newly equipped with a stop-start system and gets a 1-mpg fuel-economy bump across its EPA ratings. All Elantras now come with automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and dual-zone automatic climate control as standard equipment. The manual transmission that was standard on the Elantra SE and Sport has been discontinued.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The Elantra Eco's turbocharged inline-four delivers strong off-the-line acceleration and impressive fuel economy (33 mpg city and 41 mpg highway, according to the EPA). It comes well equipped at $22,180 with heated front seats, a proximity key with push-button start, blind-spot monitoring, and a larger 7.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Elantra models equipped with the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder provide acceleration numbers that are about average for the compact-sedan class, but the engine feels sluggish until you push into the higher rev range. The Eco model's turbocharged engine, which provides more power low in the rev range, combines with the quick-shifting dual-clutch automatic transmission to make for a more responsive feel around town. The Eco does have duller throttle response; along with the different transmission type, this means you have to depress the throttle further to get the car to accelerate with gusto.

The Elantra's suspension tuning is firm but not harsh, with a nicely controlled ride that soaks up bumps with minimal reverberations in the structure. The Eco model's low-rolling-resistance tires don't provide as much grip as the Limited model's larger wheel-and-tire setup, but the difference isn't noticeable in everyday driving. Braking performance is a strong suit for the Elantra, as it stops from 70 mph in a short 168 feet. The pedal feels firm, engendering confidence in a panic-stop situation. The Eco model's tires again hinder its performance in this test, but its pedal feel is equal to the standard 2.0-liter model's.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The Elantra's EPA fuel-economy ratings are among the best of all compact cars', with several trims rated at 40 mpg or higher on the highway. While we have yet to test any 2020 Elantra, the 2019 Eco version achieved an impressive 43 mpg in our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Elantra's dashboard has an attractive design and ergonomic controls. Its driver's seat is positioned well, with a natural-feeling relationship among the seat, the pedals, and the steering wheel. The front seats are relatively comfortable, although the flat bottom cushion isn't as supportive as we'd like. The rear seat is less roomy than some competitors, and the bottom cushion is relatively low and could use better thigh support.

The Elantra doesn't have the biggest trunk in its class, but a wide trunk opening makes it easy to load larger items. The trunk hinges impinge on some space when the trunk is closed, however. The glovebox and center console are spacious, although the door pockets front and rear are smaller than average.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Elantra offers the latest infotainment options and connectivity features. While base models have a basic 5.0-inch display, every other version has a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is clear and easy to use, with well-organized menus and plenty of hard buttons and knobs. An 8.0-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless charging for phones, and a more powerful sound system are available, but a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot is not.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

The Elantra offers nearly all of the latest driver-assistance technologies and achieves good crash-test results from U.S. testing agencies. Basic features are standard across the line, while stepping up to the SEL model adds equipment such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Hyundai is known for its impressive warranties, and the Elantra is no exception. Its coverage is among the best in its class. The company also now offers complimentary scheduled maintenance that bests mainstream rivals such as Toyota.

• Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance covers 3 years or 36,000 miles