Hyundai has a strong history with the Elantra, since 1990 it’s gone through a large number of changes including its actual name. When it was launched in Australia, it was called the Lantra, but it was getting confused with the Mitsubishi Magna Elante model, so in 2001, the company was forced to standardize the name to Elantra across all markets to avoid any further conflict.
Since then, it has offered drivers a practical mid-size sedan at an affordable price. The Elantra received a major overhaul in 2017 and just two years later, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra has undergone another nip and tuck.
SHARP EXTERIOR
From the outside, don’t expect major changes. Although the 2019 Hyundai Elantra has been redesigned from the windshield forward, but still very recognisable as a classic Elantra. The exterior appearance is now even sharper with accentuated curves and angles in the right places and a new deep grille giving it a new purpose from the front. Around the rear side is a slightly redesigned trunk lid and that’s about it really. The 2019 Hyundai Elantra is generally the same car on the outside but shall we say it’s received some minor cosmetic updates for 2019.
CONVENIENT INTERIOR
Most of the new features can be seen on the inside of the 2019 Elantra. Right away you’ll notice a new center column featuring a touch screen infotainment system, (upgraded to an eight inch screen on the top end model) with Apple and Android connectivity. There are new gauges which glow white at night and buttons are clear and simple throughout the cabin and easy to understand. There’s also a new charging pad on the centre column for mobile devices.
While the driving position is comfortable, it is a shame to see a fair amount of hard plastics being used around the interior. The door panels and the front seat backs are covered with it, which is slightly disappointing. However, the front seats are cozy with six way electrical adjustment and plenty of leg room for rear passengers. Unfortunately, rear passengers don’t get any special treatment as there are no air vents or USB ports.
Cargo space is generous, with plenty of room for a number of large suitcases along with plenty of technology throughout the car, designed to keep everyone safe. Depending on the model you choose, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra can be fitted with a safe exit system which helps avoid a door opening into traffic, front collision warnings, lane departure warning systems and blind spot indicators. There’s also an option to include a driver monitoring system to avoid tired driving.
Overall, the interior is a comfortable place to sit but it may not provide the wow factor to passengers like other vehicles might.
PERFORMANCE AND DRIVE
Under the hood of the 2019 Hyundai Elantra is a single engine offering consisting of a 2.0L Atkinson four cylinder engine putting out 147hp, which on paper seems quite low. While the 2019 Elantra may not be performance oriented, there’s plenty of power for daily driving and the occasional full capacity road trips.
This engine can be paired with a six speed manual or six speed automatic transmission, both with new technology to help improve fuel consumption. Our 100km test drive consisting of mainly city driving average 8.3 L/100km, which is quite impressive.
Overall, the 2019 Elantra provides a solid ride in all categories, enough power under the hood and some pretty impressive fuel economy. The lower power leads to a bit of engine noise in the cabin and the so-so steering and handling will get everyone around but may not impress driving enthusiasts.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Starting price for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra is $17,100, and with that you can hardly go wrong. As you start working up the model and options list, you can expect to pay a higher premium but as far as entry level mid-sized sedans go, the 2019 Elantra offers great value for money! This practical car, full of new technology and offering a solid ride may not be for thrill seekers, but it’s a great choice for a daily driver for the majority of the population that wants to get from A to B.
