2023 Hyundai Elantra vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
CarGurus highlights
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.
Choose the 2023 Hyundai Elantra if:
- You seek a budget-friendly compact car with a range of trim options.
- You appreciate advanced technology features like digital instrumentation and wireless charging.
- You prioritize safety with a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance systems.
Choose the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI if:
- You prioritize a sporty driving experience with a powerful turbocharged engine.
- You value a driver-centric interior with customizable digital displays.
- You want a hatchback with practical cargo space and rear-seat comfort.
Overview | |
MSRP$29,880 | MSRP$20,950 |
Average price$28,034 | Average price$20,613 |
Listings106 | Listings1238 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.7 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Reviews SummaryWith 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 SummaryAmerican 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 | |
Engine2.0L 241 hp I4 | Engine2.0L 147 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower241 hp @ 5000 rpm | Horsepower147 hp @ 6200 rpm |
MPG City25 | MPG City33 |
MPG Highway34 | MPG Highway42 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 241 hp I4 | Engine Name2.0L 147 hp I4 |
Torque273 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm | Torque132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm |
Horsepower241 hp @ 5000 rpm | Horsepower147 hp @ 6200 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City25 | MPG City33 |
MPG Highway34 | MPG Highway42 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space19.9 cu ft | Cargo Space14.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight3113 lbs | Curb Weight2725 lbs |
Height57.6 in | Height55.7 in |
Length168.8 in | Length184.1 in |
Width70.4 in | Width71.9 in |
Wheelbase103.6 in | Wheelbase107.1 in |
Maximum Payload915 lbs | Maximum Payload1133 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
CarGurus highlights
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.
Choose the 2023 Hyundai Elantra if:
Shop Now- You seek a budget-friendly compact car with a range of trim options.
- You appreciate advanced technology features like digital instrumentation and wireless charging.
- You prioritize safety with a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance systems.
Choose the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a sporty driving experience with a powerful turbocharged engine.
- You value a driver-centric interior with customizable digital displays.
- You want a hatchback with practical cargo space and rear-seat comfort.
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 10Read full review | 8.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
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 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 241 hp I4 | 2.0L 147 hp I4 |
Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm | 132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm |
Horsepower | 241 hp @ 5000 rpm | 147 hp @ 6200 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 25 | 33 |
MPG Highway | 34 | 42 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 19.9 cu ft | 14.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3113 lbs | 2725 lbs |
Height | 57.6 in | 55.7 in |
Length | 168.8 in | 184.1 in |
Width | 70.4 in | 71.9 in |
Wheelbase | 103.6 in | 107.1 in |
Maximum Payload | 915 lbs | 1133 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.