2008 Hyundai Elantra Trims and Specs

As the base model for the compact front-wheel drive sedan, the 2008 Hyundai Elantra GLS distinguishes itself with tons of safety features, including standard 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, tire monitor, and dual front, side curtain, and side head airbags. Riding on 15-inch wheels with all-season tires, the 2008 Elantra GLS is powered by a 138-hp, 2.0-liter DOHC I4 with 136 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, and 4-speed automatic optional.

With room for four adults and corresponding cupholders, the rear seats split fold 60/40, and the trunk holds 14 cubic feet. Standard features include power windows, locks, and heated mirrors, intermittent wipers, tachometer, tilt steering wheel, front power outlets, an alarm system, and keyless entry. Air conditioning and a CD player cost extra, as do a sunroof and a rear spoiler. The trunk can be outfitted with nets and a cargo tray. The 2008 Elantra gets around 24/33 mpg. Backed by a long-term warranty, it is a good value starter car.

Electronic stability control joins the long list of safety features in the 2008 Hyundai Elantra SE, a front-wheel drive compact sedan powered by a 2.0-liter, 138-hp DOHC I4 engine and standard 5-speed manual. A 4-speed auto tran can be substituted. Five-star frontal impact and four-star side impact crash ratings are helped by the dual front, front-side, and rear side head airbags, electronic brakeforce, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, and tire monitor. The 2008 SE adds traction control, 16-inch wheels with all-season tires, and foglights.

Full power features, heated mirrors, tilt steering wheel, a security system, remote entry, intermittent wipers, and tachometer carry over from the base GLS, and the 2008 Elantra SE also features cruise control, a CD player with wheel-mounted controls and MP3 compatibility, leather trim for the wheel and shifter, air conditioning, a trip computer, and satellite radio. Heated leather seats are available only in the SE(leftover from the defunct Limited), as are a sunroof and rear spoiler. The 14 cubic-foot trunk expands when the rear seats fold down, and a cargo net and tray can be added. Touches such as front power outlets and front and rear cupholders accommodate families. The combination of safety and convenience features make the 2008 Elantra SE a good buy for those not wanting to sacrifice comfort for economy.