2023 Hyundai Elantra vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$29,880MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2023 Hyundai Elantra
2023 Hyundai Elantra
$20,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$29,880MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Hyundai Elantra
$20,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2023 Hyundai Elantra scores 8.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Hyundai Elantra is the recommended choice, offering a well-rounded package of style, technology, and safety at an attractive price point.

Overview

MSRP

$29,880

MSRP

$20,950

Average price

$28,034

Average price

$20,613

Listings

106

Listings

1238
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Manual transmission available
  • Great handling
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Unintuitive technology
  • Prices rise quickly
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design

2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Reviews Summary

With its updated engine, revised suspension, and tech-forward interior, the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s legendary GTI looks ready to do battle with the Hyundai Veloster N as well as the upcoming Honda Civic Si and Subaru WRX. With regards to performance, the new GTI leaves almost nothing to be desired.

2023 Hyundai Elantra Reviews Summary

American voters cite inflation and the economy among their top concerns in the fall of 2022. With interest rates rising, oil companies reporting record profits on inflated gas prices, and the average price of a new vehicle closing in on $50,000, things can look bleak and feel helpless if you need a new car now. So, what can you do? For starters, you could take a look at a roomy, safe, efficient, and technologically advanced 2023 Hyundai Elantra. Whether you want basic transportation, a 50-mpg hybrid loaded with features, or one of the best sports sedans you can buy on a budget, the 2023 Elantra lineup delivers.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 241 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 147 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

241 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

147 hp @ 6200 rpm

MPG City

25

MPG City

33

MPG Highway

34

MPG Highway

42
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$29,880MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Hyundai Elantra
2023 Hyundai Elantra
$20,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$29,880MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Hyundai Elantra
$20,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2023 Hyundai Elantra scores 8.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Hyundai Elantra is the recommended choice, offering a well-rounded package of style, technology, and safety at an attractive price point.

Overview
MSRP
$29,880
$20,950
Average price
$28,034
$20,613
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.8
4.2
Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

8.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Manual transmission available
  • Great handling
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Unintuitive technology
  • Prices rise quickly
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
Summary
With its updated engine, revised suspension, and tech-forward interior, the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s legendary GTI looks ready to do battle with the Hyundai Veloster N as well as the upcoming Honda Civic Si and Subaru WRX. With regards to performance, the new GTI leaves almost nothing to be desired.
American voters cite inflation and the economy among their top concerns in the fall of 2022. With interest rates rising, oil companies reporting record profits on inflated gas prices, and the average price of a new vehicle closing in on $50,000, things can look bleak and feel helpless if you need a new car now. So, what can you do? For starters, you could take a look at a roomy, safe, efficient, and technologically advanced 2023 Hyundai Elantra. Whether you want basic transportation, a 50-mpg hybrid loaded with features, or one of the best sports sedans you can buy on a budget, the 2023 Elantra lineup delivers.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.0L 241 hp I4
2.0L 147 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
241 hp @ 5000 rpm
147 hp @ 6200 rpm
MPG City
25
33
MPG Highway
34
42
Look and feel
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
7/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra
9/10

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, despite its new body panels, retained a familiar look that might not have been immediately noticeable to those not deeply familiar with the brand. The car was longer and lower than its predecessor, yet maintained the same wheelbase, which contributed to its stable silhouette while preserving its nimble handling. The GTI's styling was classic, with a smooth hood and a subtle honeycomb-patterned air intake. The signature red accent line stretched between the LED headlights, and optional light bars added drama to the front end. Aerodynamic enhancements included redesigned side-view mirrors and underbody paneling, while the GTI's wheel size varied by trim, with 18-inch wheels on the S and SE trims and 19-inch wheels on the Autobahn trim. The GTI was available in staple colors like silver, black, and white, with additional options like Atlantic Blue Metallic and Kings Red Metallic. Inside, the GTI featured plaid cloth seats on the S and SE trims, with leather available on higher trims, and a classic golf-ball shifter knob for manual transmission models.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a diverse lineup, catering to a wide range of preferences. The base Elantra SE was budget-friendly, while the SEL and Limited trims provided more upscale options. The Elantra Hybrid models boasted impressive fuel efficiency, achieving between 50 and 54 mpg. For driving enthusiasts, the turbocharged Elantra N Line and the performance-tuned Elantra N, with 276 horsepower, were available. The Elantra's pricing ranged from $21,545 to $33,245, with the Limited trim offering a balance of features and cost. The exterior design was somewhat polarizing, but the interior was well-received, featuring light gray leather seats and upscale fabric trim. The Elantra Limited's cabin was stylish and technologically advanced, though it had some hard plastic elements. Overall, the Elantra's interior was a pleasant surprise, offering a high-tech feel at an affordable price.

Performance
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
10/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra
8/10

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a testament to the evolution of performance, boasting a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivered 241 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 273 pound-feet of torque at a low 1,750 rpm. This power was channeled to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GTI's fuel economy was estimated at 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with the manual transmission, slightly improving with the automatic. The GTI's handling was enhanced by a retuned suspension, with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs. Various drive modes allowed for customization, and the electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential worked with the electronic stability control to reduce understeer. The Autobahn trim featured an adaptive damping system for even more precise handling.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited, while not a powerhouse, offered a surprisingly engaging driving experience. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produced 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm, paired with a continuously variable transmission. Despite its modest power, the Elantra Limited achieved an average of 33 mpg during testing, close to its EPA rating of 34 mpg. The Elantra's ride was communicative and compliant, with a quiet cabin on the highway. The car's handling was composed, aided by 17-inch wheels and 225/45 tires. While not as sporty as the Elantra N Line or N, the Limited trim offered consistent handling and a flat cornering attitude. The steering lacked sharpness, and the brakes showed some heat-induced shuddering, but overall, the Elantra Limited exceeded expectations.

Form and function
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
9/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra
8/10

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI balanced performance with practicality, offering 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 34.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GTI's interior was driver-centric, with a center stack angled toward the driver and a unique "light and sight" panel for adjusting headlights and defogging settings. Rear legroom was surprisingly generous, making the GTI suitable for a family of four.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra prioritized practicality without sacrificing style. It featured proximity-sensing keyless entry and a comfortable six-way power driver's seat in the Limited trim. The Elantra's trunk offered 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, with a hands-free release feature on some models. The rear seats had a 60/40 split-folding design for added utility. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a reclined backrest and hard plastic panels on the front seatbacks.

Technology
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
7/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra
8/10

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI impressed with its 10.25-inch digital driver information display, offering customizable gauge layouts and ambient lighting profiles. The infotainment system featured an 8.25-inch touchscreen in the S trim and a 10-inch display with navigation in higher trims. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity were standard, with a 9-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system in the SE and Autobahn trims. Volkswagen's Car-Net system offered remote access and optional features like WiFi capability and online radio.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra expanded the availability of its 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, now standard in the N Line trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and wireless smartphone charging. However, only Bluetooth supported a wireless connection. The voice recognition feature was mostly effective, though it struggled with some commands. The Elantra Limited came with a Bose premium audio system, but its sound quality was underwhelming compared to competitors. Digital Key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert were also available.

Safety
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
7/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra
9/10

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured IQ.Drive, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including Travel Assist, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, IQ.Drive was only available on automatic GTIs. Park Distance Control was standard on all trims, with Park Assist available on the Autobahn trim. The GTI had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a comprehensive package of standard safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Elantra Limited added cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist. The Elantra's driving aids were smooth and subtle, providing confidence on various road conditions. The 2022 Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and the 2023 model received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

Cost Effectiveness
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
8/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra
10/10
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