November’s Spotlight: 2023 Hyundai Elantra

We made it to another monthly spotlight, and I can’t believe there’s only one left for this year. I can’t be the only one that’s felt like time has just been speeding by. This week, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra will be under review, and yes it is another one of the cars produced by Hyundai that has received a 5 star overall safety rating. It also received a perfect score for side crash rollover tests. 

Overview

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra starts at only $22,065 and is one of the top choices for daily driving. The Korean car company has made lots of mixes and matches with this car, offering it in 6 different options ranging from the base model SE to the Limited Hybrid. This model also includes a sporty line N trim but this is not to be confused with the gutsier N model. 

New for 2023

For the 2023 version, the Elantra sees several changes to a couple different aspects, with one significant revision: getting rid of the manual transmission option for the N Line model (now only available with a DCT – dual clutch transmission). The convenience package is available for the N Line and SEL’s, actually coming standard on both models. This includes features such as a 10.3 inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.3 inch infotainment display. On top of all of this, the Convenience Package models see a set of 17 inch wheels (instead of 16), and the SEL Premium Package is no longer available.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

As mentioned previously, Hyundai offers the Elantra in a couple different engine and transmission types. Each type has its own statistics and will be covered in this section. The first type is the standard nonhybrid Elantra powertrain that is naturally aspirated and has a 2.0 liter four cylinder engine. It makes 147 horsepower (not very exciting I know) and 132 lb-ft of torque – for the SE and SEL models. The sportier N Line model drops the combined volume of air moved (displaced) by the pistons in its cylinders to 1.6 liters and adds a turbocharger, which helps to make 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. 

The hybrid models also use a 1.6 liter four-pot, however, it is paired with an electric motor instead of a turbo. Obviously this means there will be slightly less horsepower compared to the base engine at 139, but more torque at 195 lb-ft, which is equal to that of the N Line. The SE and SEL models come with a 2.0 liter engine paired with a CVT (continuously variable transmission), whereas the N Line, Blue Hybrid, and Limited Hybrid models all come with a DCT. It is worth noting that vehicles in the N Line get a 7 speed DCT compared to the hybrids 6 speed DCT. 

After a brief test drive, done by Car and Driver magazine, the N Line was the choice for the most ideal model. Acceleration was perkier and handling was more proficient, which boosts the athleticism without taking anything way. 

Fuel Economy and Real World MPG Ratings

The EPA estimates the Elantra, equipped with a 2.0 liter four cylinder engine, will make 33 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. Models that have a 1.6 liter four see estimates of 28 mpg city and 36 highway. The thriftiest hybrid Elantra is rated at 53 mpg city and 56 highway. 

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2023 Elantra would not be complete without a matching interior – of course. So Hyundai decided to design the cabin with a more futuristic approach. The dashboard and console wrap around the driver while the passenger’s side sees a more minimalist approach. A single LED strip also follows the dashboard air vent, across the width of the car from the steering wheel to the passengers’ side door panel. I mean the photos below do look pretty impressive but the biggest downside I would say, is its mostly hard plastic, which does help to keep the cost of the car low.  

Infotainment and Connectivity

An optional 10.3 inch digital gauge display (as mentioned before) would sit side by side of a 10.3 inch infotainment touchscreen perched on top of the dashboard. An 8 inch center display and analog gauges for the instrument cluster both come standard for this years model, but its the latest infotainment interface that takes center stage. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Wi-Fi connection come standard as well. There is even an option for voice recognition which allows the driver to adjust things like climate control or heated seas, by simply making specific phrases. 

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Many of the driver assistance features come standard for the 2023 Elantra. Key safety features include: 

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection 
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane keeping assist 
• Available adaptive cruise control with lane centering feature

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Hyundai has graced the 2023 Elantra with a couple pretty sweet standard maintenance and warranty coverages: 

• 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty 
• Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles 
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles