Hyundai began its life in the US as a seller of low priced economy cars. Despite the new Genesis sedan and fairly plush Veracruz, the company has not forgotten its roots.
The 2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue is priced under $15,000 and is designed to get better fuel economy than higher Elantra trim levels. The base car does without such features as air-conditioning and a stereo but a $1700 package add those items yet the Elantra Blue still comes in under the Honda Civic's price.
The improved fuel economy (EPA estimates put it at 26 city / 35 highway) is thanks to a host of little improvements. All Blue versions of the Elantra come with a five-speed manual transmission. A revised alternator, lower-friction internal engine parts, new gear ratios and a reprogrammed engine computer help this version of the Elantra gain 2 mpg over other Elantras.
When it comes to non-hybrid economy cars, only the Chevrolet Cobalt XFE does better at 36 mpg. Both the Corolla and Focus tie the Elantra Blue.
What's really surprising about this version of the Elantra is that it's inexpensive but doesn't feel cheap. The dash materials, switchgear and all the interior lighting has a quality that makes some Toyotas feel cheap by comparison. Also, the optional $1700 package that adds A/C and a radio nets a better than average audio system - the sound is very good and you'll get an iPod specific connection no matter which version of the Elantra you choose, even the base Blue model with no options.
This car does not feel like the cheapie it really is - the 2.0 liter engine has more than enough power and the ride is quiet and smooth. For me, the Elantra is better than both the Civic and Corolla and matches the Ford Focus for features and value.
-Brian Moody
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