2005 Hyundai Elantra New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Hyundai Elantra?
Prior to 2005, the Elantra hatchback was available only in GT trim. This year, the 2005 Hyundai Elantra GLS hatchback debuts, offering buyers ultimate utility in a package that costs more than $1,000 less than the GT. Better still, it has the GT's firmer suspension, sport-tuned steering, and four-wheel disc brakes. Otherwise, the Elantra is unchanged, save the return of the Champagne paint color.

Advantages of the 2005 Hyundai Elantra:

• Standard side-impact airbags
• Ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Available hatchback utility
• Comfortable front seats
• Soft ride quality
• Sporty GT models
• Durability

Objections to the 2005 Hyundai Elantra:

• Rubbery steering and shifter feel
• Sporty GT models don’t handle much better than standard versions
• Price creep and steep rebates offered by the competition have eroded Elantra’s value equation

Editor's Advice:
A wonderful daily driver thanks to its supportive front seats and cushy ride quality, the 2005 Hyundai Elantra is a durable choice for anyone looking for a well-equipped commuter car covered by a substantial warranty. Our favorite is the Hyundai Elantra GT hatchback, not only for its utility but also for its feature content. With a sticker price just north of $15,000, the Elantra GT includes goodies like alloy wheels, a CD player, perforated leather seats and a slightly tighter suspension, not to mention cool purple instrument lighting. Optional on all Elantras are a power sunroof and a package that includes ABS with traction control. Take a look at the 2005 Hyundai Elantra when shopping for a small sedan or hatchback.