2008 Hyundai Elantra Overview

2008 Hyundai Elantra Overview

Overall User Score

3.6⁄5

Based on 22 reviews

Fresh off a redesign last year, the 2008 Hyundai Elantra receives few changes. Hyundai has come a long way over the years, and its compact front-wheel-drive sedan has beefed up its list of standard features while keeping its price low to appeal to budget drivers. But economy doesn't come at the price of safety and value, and the 2008 Elantra earns four- and five-star crash ratings and comes with Hyundai's highly attractive 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. In 2008, the Limited trim is dropped, leaving just the base GLS and the better-equipped SE. Both carry the same 2.0-liter, 138-hp inline-four engine with a choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission (both with overdrive). New this year, the SE gets standard stability control.

Both trims feature ABS brakes, a tire monitor, six airbags (including side curtain for both rows), full power features, and remote entry. If you want air-conditioning, a CD player, leather trim, and cruise control, opt for the SE, which also comes with traction control and larger 17-inch tires (the GLS's are 16 inches). Rear seats split-fold 60/40, expanding an already impressive 14-cubic-foot trunk. The 2008 Elantra is actually longer, higher, and more spacious inside than the Civic, and its updated two-tone interior helps mitigate the economy-car factor.

The Elantra's 24/33 mpg rating is decent, though not outstanding, but the Elantra's big selling points are its price tag and warranty. Its improved handling since the 2007 makeover and standard safety features are good considerations for families wanting to feel secure without breaking the bank.