Compact sedans are becoming a rare breed in the US market, overshadowed by the ever-popular SUVs and trucks. This makes models like the 2024 Hyundai Elantra even more important for car buyers seeking efficiency, affordability, and practicality. After spending some time with the latest Elantra, it’s clear that this sedan still holds significant appeal in a changing automotive landscape.
Initial Encounter with the Elantra
Arriving at the rental lot after travel delays, the 2024 Hyundai Elantra was a welcome sight. In a neutral gray, it presented a modern, if perhaps understated, appearance. While some might initially see it as just another rental car, a closer look reveals a design with more character than meets the eye.
Side view of a gray 2024 Hyundai Elantra, parked outdoors, showcasing its overall design
Stepping closer, the Elantra’s design starts to reveal its nuances. It’s not a generic shape; there are interesting lines and angles that hint at a more adventurous design philosophy. The initial impression moves from purely functional to something surprisingly stylish for its class.
Front three-quarter view of a slate gray 2024 Hyundai Elantra, highlighting its sharp lines and front fascia
Even under less-than-ideal lighting, the Elantra’s front end shows a distinctiveness. The headlight and grille design, in particular, start to stand out, suggesting a level of detail often missed at first glance.
Hyundai Elantra 2024 front view at night, emphasizing the headlight and grille design in low light conditions
Taking a moment to appreciate the full view, the Elantra balances the practical sedan form with design elements that are far from boring. It’s a car that invites a second look, defying the typical expectations for a vehicle in its segment.
Person standing in front of a gray 2024 Hyundai Elantra rental car, showing the car in relation to a human scale
Exterior Styling: A Design That Grows on You
The 2024 Elantra’s styling is arguably its most polarizing feature. It’s a departure from traditional sedan designs, embracing sharp lines and bold angles. This design language might seem unconventional initially, but it begins to make a stronger impression over time.
Rear three-quarter view of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, focusing on its rear design and taillight details
The Elantra’s design feels like a deliberate attempt to break away from the mundane. It’s as if Hyundai aimed to inject some passion and flair into the compact sedan category, which is often perceived as purely practical and unexciting.
Front three-quarter view of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showcasing its overall shape and front design elements
Looking at the C-pillar and rear window area, the design complexity becomes even more apparent. The Elantra isn’t just about smooth curves; it’s about sculpted surfaces and dynamic shapes that catch the light and eye.
Detailed view of the C pillar design on a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, highlighting its unique styling
Even the wheels contribute to the overall design statement. They aren’t just functional components but are styled with a level of detail that complements the car’s edgy aesthetic.
Wheel design detail of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, emphasizing the unique pattern and styling of the wheels
Up close, the front fascia is particularly noteworthy. The integration of the headlights and grille is executed with precision, giving the Elantra a modern and somewhat aggressive face.
Close-up of the headlight and front grill design of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the intricate details
The rear design is equally distinctive, featuring a trunk lid with an integrated spoiler-like element. This “ducktail” adds a sporty touch to the sedan’s rear profile.
Rear end design details of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, focusing on the taillights and trunk design
Overall, the 2024 Elantra’s exterior is a collection of interesting design choices. From the sharp body lines to the detailed light fixtures and wheel designs, it’s a car that challenges the conventional look of a compact sedan.
Silver 2024 Hyundai Elantra parked outdoors, showcasing its full side profile and design in a different color
Door handle detail of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, highlighting the subtle design integration
Rear view of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the car from behind and its taillight design
Interior Ambiance and Features
Hyundai has significantly upped its interior game in recent years, and the 2024 Elantra is a prime example. The cabin is surprisingly refined, offering a blend of modern design, comfortable materials, and user-friendly technology. It’s a space that feels more premium than one might expect in this vehicle class.
Dashboard and steering wheel of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the driver's perspective of the interior
Even those who might be hesitant about the exterior styling are likely to be impressed by the interior. It’s arguably one of the strongest aspects of the Elantra, creating a welcoming and functional environment for both driver and passengers.
Driver's seat of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, focusing on the seat design and material
The seats themselves carry over the exterior’s angular design theme. While the styling is noticeable, comfort is not sacrificed. The seats are well-shaped and supportive, suitable for longer drives.
Front seats of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showcasing both driver and passenger seats and their design
The dashboard layout is dominated by digital displays, a common trend in modern cars. The Elantra features a digital instrument cluster and a central infotainment screen, integrating technology seamlessly into the cabin.
While the digital gauge cluster might not be the most visually stunning element, it provides essential driving information clearly. Importantly, it also displays excellent fuel economy figures, a key selling point for the Elantra.
Digital gauge cluster of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the display and information presented to the driver
Hyundai thankfully retains physical buttons for climate and audio controls. This is a welcome feature for ease of use, allowing drivers to make quick adjustments without navigating through touchscreens.
Physical buttons for climate control and audio system in a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, emphasizing user-friendly controls
Apple CarPlay integration is available, although it requires a wired USB connection for optimal stability. Finding the USB port might take a moment, as it’s located somewhat deeply under the climate controls.
Apple CarPlay interface displayed in a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing smartphone integration
USB A and C ports in a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, located in the center console area
Once connected, Apple CarPlay works as expected, projecting smartphone apps onto the car’s infotainment screen. The wired connection, while less convenient than wireless, ensures a reliable link.
Using Apple CarPlay in the 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the user interface and functionality
The center console area is well-organized and aesthetically pleasing. The gearshift lever and surrounding trim contribute to the overall modern and clean look of the interior.
Details like the door panel design, center console storage, and overhead lighting further enhance the interior’s overall quality. Small touches like these contribute to a more premium feel than expected in the compact sedan class.
Driver side door panel of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the design and materials used
Center console storage space in a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, highlighting the storage capacity
Overhead lights with buttons and switches in a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, detailing the interior lighting controls
Rear passenger space is also commendable for a compact sedan. The back seats offer adequate legroom and headroom, making the Elantra a practical choice for small families or those who regularly carry passengers.
Rear seats of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the passenger space in the back
Trunk space is another pleasant surprise. The Elantra boasts a generous cargo area, exceeding expectations for a compact car and rivaling some larger sedans.
Trunk space of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, highlighting the cargo capacity
Engine and Drivetrain: Efficient and Functional
The 2024 Hyundai Elantra SEL trim features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine, part of Hyundai’s “Smart Stream” family, prioritizes efficiency and smooth operation for everyday driving. While not a powerhouse, it’s adequate for the Elantra’s size and intended use.
2.0 L four-cylinder engine of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showcasing the engine bay layout
The engine bay is neatly organized, with key components easily accessible. This suggests that routine maintenance should be straightforward.
Dual overhead cam 16 valve 2.0 L four-cylinder engine of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, providing a closer view of the engine
The engine design is relatively simple, without excessive plastic covers, which can be appreciated by those who prefer to see the mechanical components.
Battery and air intake box in the engine bay of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the placement of these components
Paired with the 2.0-liter engine is a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CVTs are often criticized for their driving feel, but in the Elantra, it’s surprisingly well-integrated. In normal driving, the CVT is unobtrusive and contributes to the car’s excellent fuel economy.
On the Road: Driving Dynamics
The 2024 Elantra offers a balanced driving experience. It’s comfortable and composed on highways, with stable tracking and a reasonably smooth ride. The suspension strikes a good balance between handling and comfort, making it suitable for daily commutes and longer trips.
Driving a 2024 Hyundai Elantra on a paved road, showing the car in motion
From the driver’s seat, the Elantra provides a pleasant driving position. While the steering feel might be described as somewhat vague, it’s typical for cars in this class and doesn’t detract significantly from the driving experience.
Drive modes button in a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, highlighting the available driving mode selections
Drive modes are available, allowing drivers to tailor the car’s responsiveness to different conditions or preferences. However, in everyday driving, the default “comfort” mode is generally well-suited.
Braking performance is adequate, and visibility is good in all directions, contributing to confident driving in various traffic situations.
Driver behind the wheel of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra, showing the driving position and steering wheel
Overall, the Elantra handles competently and provides a comfortable ride. It’s nimble enough for city driving and stable enough for highway cruising.
The standard tires are likely adequate for most drivers, but those seeking sharper handling might consider upgrading to tires with more grip.
Fuel Efficiency: A Standout Feature
Fuel economy is a major highlight of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra. Impressively, achieving over 44 mpg in mixed driving conditions is quite attainable. This level of efficiency makes the Elantra a very economical choice, especially for those with long commutes or budget-conscious buyers.
Refueling a 2024 Hyundai Elantra at a gas station, emphasizing its fuel efficiency aspect
The excellent gas mileage, combined with a reasonable fuel tank capacity, translates to fewer trips to the gas station and significant savings over time.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Elantra
The 2024 Hyundai Elantra has many positive attributes, but like any car, it also has a few drawbacks.
Pros:
- Sporty Driving Position: The Elantra offers a driver-focused seating position that enhances the driving experience.
- Excellent Fuel Economy: The 2.0-liter engine and CVT deliver outstanding gas mileage.
- Well-Tuned CVT: The CVT is surprisingly refined and doesn’t detract from the driving experience.
- Spacious and Well-Designed Interior: The cabin is modern, comfortable, and offers ample space for passengers and cargo.
Cons:
- Exterior Styling Can Be Divisive: The bold exterior design might not appeal to everyone.
- Wired Apple CarPlay: Apple CarPlay requires a wired connection for optimal performance.
- Digital Gauge Cluster Aesthetics: The digital instrument cluster could be more visually appealing.
Conclusion
The 2024 Hyundai Elantra is a compelling option in the dwindling compact sedan segment. It offers a striking design, a surprisingly upscale interior, excellent fuel economy, and a comfortable driving experience. While its styling might not be universally loved and some tech features have minor drawbacks, the Elantra’s strengths make it a smart choice for those seeking an efficient, practical, and stylish sedan in 2024. For buyers also considering Kia, exploring a Kia K5 review could provide a valuable comparison point in the same vehicle category.
