2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2020 Hyundai Elantra

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI had a stealthy, unassuming appearance that appealed to those who preferred not to draw attention. Despite its conservative styling, the GTI featured subtle sporty elements like a honeycomb grille, red accents, and twin exhaust outlets. The Rabbit Edition trim added gloss black finishes and unique colors, though some found the bunny badge a bit much. Inside, the GTI's straightforward dashboard design and quality materials, including the whimsical Clark Plaid cloth upholstery, created a comfortable and functional environment.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra retained its bold, geometric styling from the previous year's restyle. The Elantra Limited test car featured a black paint job that highlighted its angular design elements and chrome detailing. Inside, the Elantra aimed for an upscale look with silver trim and leather upholstery, though some hard plastics reminded occupants of its mainstream compact car status. The dual-zone automatic climate control and power-adjustable seats added to the comfort and convenience.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a thrill to drive, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produced 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The VAQ limited-slip differential enhanced traction and handling, making the GTI a joy on twisty roads. The 6-speed manual gearbox provided a satisfying driving experience, with light clutch action and short throws. The GTI's sport suspension delivered a stiff ride, but the adaptive damping suspension available on higher trims improved comfort. Fuel economy was decent, with an EPA rating of 27 mpg combined, though real-world results varied.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter engine paired with a new CVT. The Elantra Eco featured a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 128 horsepower and a 7-speed DCT, while the Elantra Sport boasted a 1.6-liter turbo engine with 201 horsepower and an independent rear suspension. The CVT provided smooth and efficient performance, though real-world fuel economy fell short of expectations. The Elantra's torsion beam rear suspension detracted from ride quality, but the Sport trim's independent suspension offered a more enjoyable driving experience.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI excelled in practicality, with comfortable front seats, ample storage, and a user-friendly layout. The backseat offered decent comfort, though legroom was tight. The GTI's trunk provided 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which could be expanded to 52.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The car's versatility made it suitable for both family duties and spirited driving.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra provided roomy accommodations for four adults, with a fifth person fitting in for short trips. The Limited trim featured power-adjustable seats, leather upholstery, and a sliding center console armrest. The dual-zone automatic climate control and front passenger seat-height adjuster added to the comfort. The Elantra's trunk offered 14.4 cubic feet of space, comparable to some midsize sedans, and included a convenient interior grab handle.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI's infotainment system varied by trim, with the S and Rabbit Edition featuring a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration. Higher trims offered an 8-inch display, HD Radio, satellite radio, and a Fender premium sound system. The Rabbit Edition's basic system was functional, though sound quality was only adequate. Adaptive LED headlights and a semi-autonomous parking assistant were available on higher trims.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came with a touchscreen infotainment system, with screen sizes ranging from 5 to 8 inches depending on the trim. The SEL trim added Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim included wireless smartphone charging and a premium Infinity sound system. The Ultimate Package added navigation and additional Blue Link services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and knobs for easy operation.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered advanced safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and an active blind-spot monitoring system. The GTI received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though it had an Acceptable rating for front passenger protection in the small overlap frontal impact test.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra included Hyundai Smart Sense as standard, with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and full LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation. The Ultimate Package included adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with a noted concern about rear-door intrusion in the side-impact test.