Coming off of a 2011 redesign, there’s not much new for the Hyundai Elantra – save for a new “Active Eco System” we already saw applied to the Sonata in the middle of the last model year. Hyundai claims it will increase fuel economy by up to 7% when engaged. But how does it do it?

Well, it’s really quite simple. Pushing the Eco button will change the throttle map, thereby reducing how much throttle you get for a given amount of pressure on the accelerator. It will also lower transmission shift points and turn off the A/C compressor when not needed.

That’s a lot of technology for an effect that is no different than what you'd gain by being a bit lighter in the foot and shifting earlier, not to mention using the A/C less. Hell, I used to do that habitually in college when my beer budget eclipsed my fuel fund.

Some options packages have new names, but content stays the same, so little has changed for 2012. You’ll still get the same 1.8-liter Hyundai NU engine with multi-port injection in a 4-door package, pushing the front wheels to do the power delivery and steering, too. With the 6-speed manual in the base GLS trim, or the 6-speed automatic available as on option on the GLS trim and standard on the Limited, the Elantra manages a 29 mpg city/40 highway rating, thanks in part to an extremely low .28 drag coefficient. For those not familiar with the “ins” and “outs” of drag coefficients, that’s slippery.

While the 1.8 has never been praised for being particularly gutsy, it will manage just fine around town and can even deal adequately with highway passing maneuvers – provided you’re willing to initiate forceful downshifting of the automatic transmission via heavy use of the right pedal. Likewise, handling isn’t sporty, but it manages a pleasant blend that works well in most situations. It’s not sporty, and it’s no off-road machine, but it’ll handle potholes and highway seams without transmitting every bit of information directly to your spine. Low-profile tires fitted to the Limited trim are a bit more communicative – read “hard” – but still aren’t jolting or annoying, and do improve agility slightly. But if it’s sport you’re looking for, look elsewhere.

Seats provide adequate support and comfort with room for taller occupants, but adjustable lumbar support would make longer trips more comfortable, and why is the telescoping steering wheel not available in the GLS Manual?

There is actually another change for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra – a more robust horn. I suppose that’s a safety feature, since you’ll no longer risk an accident as you cringe at the comical note emanating from the old blower.

Standard features don’t disappoint, with even the base GLS Manual trim getting traction control, heated power mirrors, satellite radio, USB input, a digital media player and a full power package. The automatic-equipped GLS adds A/C, cruise and larger 16-inch wheels, while the Limited gets leather, heated seats, mirror-mounted turn signals, a power sunroof, Bluetooth and 17-inch alloys.

Still a contender for the best small sedan on the market, the Elantra would need to step up its game to match rivals like the Cruze and the Focus. However, that’s only because Chevy and Ford have made such an effort in the last few years with regard to their smaller offerings. While 2012 offers a very formidable Elantra, I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a big jump in quality from Hyundai by the time something new is due.