Elantra is one of the most successful car models in Hyundai Motor’s portfolio, competing with the likes of Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla over the years.
If you love your car’s history like we do, we think Elantra has come a long way from its debut in 1990—seven generations in, to be precise. In fact, today, it’s widely considered one of the most refined compact cars in the market.
Known as Avante in its home country of Korea, which translates to ‘advancing or moving forward’ in Spanish, it’s safe to say that Hyundai has always seen its future tied to the company’s first compact sedan.
And most drivers seem to feel that way, too.
Given your interest in the Elantra, I’d say you found the perfect round-up to see how each Elantra year measures up against the others. So, with that, here are our picks of the best and worst Elantra years.
What are the best and worst Elantra Years?
The best Elantra years are 2009, 2018, 2020, and 2021. Meanwhile, the worst Elantra years are 2002, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2013, and 2017.
Elantra first had its significant overhaul in its third generation (2000–2006), where it had a redesigned exterior at launch. This model had reasonable success, especially among urban drivers.
The fourth generation (2006–2010) is a hit or miss for us. The build was great, but the materials were either cheap or lacking.
The base model also lacked ABS—a head-scratcher even then. The 2009 model was an outlier, though, in a good way.
Hyundai then introduced the new design language called “Fluidic Sculpture” with Elantra’s fifth generation (2010–2016). It was generally well-received in the global market until repairs started piling up.
For the sixth generation (2016–2020), the automaker expanded the compact sedan’s body line with the Elantra GT Hatchback, which had a bold, sporty styling and a more powerful engine.
Finally, the seventh (2020–present) is clearly more designed for tech modernization, with some emphasis on its improved infotainment system. But how does it fare overall?
Well, to find that out, let’s now take a deeper look at the best and worst Elantra years.
What are the best Elantra years?
2009 Hyundai Elantra (HD)
Hyundai’s fourth-generation Elantra had a shaky start, but it bounced back with the 2009 Elantra. To date, it’s one of the most comfortable cars we’ve driven during the week of its launch.
Owners have it rated a solid 4.6 on cars.com, with the latest entry being in 2023. Edmunds, on the other hand, is keeping it close at 4.5 with over 90 reviews.
If you luck out, you might just get your hands on your most practical used car yet.
Acceleration isn’t something to write home about, though, mind you, that the 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (138 hp, 136 lb-ft of torque) is efficient and smooth.
This model was not without its issues, though, and recalls were made for the 2008–2010 releases due to EPS discrepancies. So, if you’re in the used car market, it’s best to check with the dealer or seller about that history.
Otherwise, the 2009 version has been praised for durability and cost-efficiency, which is quite impressive given its place in the market as an older model.
2018 Hyundai Elantra (AD)
Elantra was having its worst stretch in the 2010s until the 2018 model arrived as the next hot shot in the small car segment.
Of all the Elantra models up to that point, this unit had the interior that got universal praise from testers, including yours truly.
The engine performed well, too, particularly the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder with 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. However, the Sport trim and its 1.6-litre turbo, with 201 hp, arguably provided the best value for money.
Somewhat overlooked in the 2018 model were the car’s improved safety features, which earned it an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award in the small car segment for its new crash-prevention technology.
Infotainment also received a boost with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging. Overall, the 2018 Elantra earned rave reviews from owners at cars.com, KBB, and other major consumer experience aggregates.
2020 Hyundai Elantra (AD)
The 2020 Elantra is an urban hustler, a good-looking sedan for everyday use, and occasional long drives. But why is that?
Well, Hyundai finally dropped its six-speed automatic transmission in favor of the fuel-efficient continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) rig—except its IVT according to Hyundai, though we’re not going to indulge that.
All models, sans the base, also received a standard 7-inch touchscreen multimedia system. It’s not bad, though the option for a larger 8-inch display with a built-in navigation system should’ve been the standard here. We loved the UI, in particular.
But minor qualms aside, the 2020 Elantra looks and feels great. The driving experience is notably more refined this time. By that, we mean the obsession with ‘sportiness’ is at least more subtle.
Inspired by back-to-back IHS safety awards, the 2020 Elantra made automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, and lane departure warning standards on all trim levels.
Blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning also came through, except for the SE trim.
Our verdict, it’s a value-rich purchase—no matter if it’s used or brand new.
2021 Hyundai Elantra (CN7)
There are a lot of good-looking cars these days, but few do it both ways.
The few, in this case, include the 2021 Elantra, which boasts an expensive-looking shell and an ergonomic, modern interior. Those are never going to seal that deal, of course, but they do get people’s attention.
Among its various trims, we find the hybrid as the most fuel-efficient and comfortable to drive. Sure, you give up a bit of power, but saving up to 40% in fuel over the non-hybrid models is just a tad bit enticing for average users.
Our wish for the 2020 model has been granted here: an 8-inch center display by default. However, the real tech upgrades come in the form of a voice-recognition feature and the Hyundai Digital Key.
The latter gives you the ability to unlock and access your vehicle using your mobile phone. The catch? It’s powered by NFC, so you have to be really close to the door, or it won’t work.
It’s not as fancy as it sounds, but it’s sort of an alternative, right? If you misplaced the actual key anyway.
For what it’s worth, you can also share Digital Key access with up to three other people.
All things considered, the 2021 Elantra has a couple of outstanding trims, but we think the hybrid is the one that’s good enough to win its own segment.
What are the worst Elantra years?
2002 Hyundai Elantra (XD)
The 2002 Elantra had problems with its brake and electrical components, and given its mileage nowadays, you’ll be flipping a coin no matter what condition you find it.
At the very least, it’s safer to avoid this model when browsing through this range, especially since these units are from an era before Elantra made relevant strides in the small car market.
2006 Hyundai Elantra (XD)
Much like the 2002 model, the final entry in the third generation of Elantra was plagued with some deal-breaking issues: transmission and engine problems.
Concerns were also raised about fuel efficiency, which became a persisting issue for many aging units. Overall, we see the 2006 Elantra as a risky purchase that may help you save in the interim but will cost you more in the long run.
2008 Hyundai Elantra (HD)
If you’re going for the most affordable Elantra in the used car market, then you’ll inevitably come across mixed reviews of its 2008 release.
While it’s not bottom-of-the-barrel worst, it’s still risky business because of the various transmission issues that plagued it through the years.
There were also complaints about the suspension system, including noises from the front suspension and premature wear of its components.
We know some well-maintained units of the 2008 Elantra doing well to this day, but the chances you’re getting something that reliable and practical in the used car market aren’t as promising as the 2009 edition.
2010 Hyundai Elantra (HD)
The 2010s were not a good decade for the Elantra, particularly the years 2010 to 2013 when known faults on ESC, corroded coil springs, steering, and airbags persisted year after year, leading to some recalls, written complaints, and safety notices.
If you’re set on getting a fourth generation, we recommend the 2009 instead, as it had the more stable build.
2013 Hyundai Elantra (MD/UD)
For many enthusiasts, Elantra’s worst year is a toss-up between the 2010 and 2013 models.
But notably, the latter registered over 1,200 NHSTA complaints, the highest for any Elantra and about three times than the 2010 units.
The bulk of the issues were tied to the engine, wheels, or brakes—all of which can have very costly repairs and consequences.
Reasonably so, we think 2013 is the worst Elantra year to purchase, even at a discount.
With that said, we recommend taking extra precautions if you still intend to take any of the fifth-generation Elantra, especially the 2013 model.
2017 Hyundai Elantra (AD)
The 2017 model year is another smudge in Elantra’s track record.
While it didn’t get as bad as 2013, there were significant concerns about the engine misfiring at random, typically, once the vehicle crosses 50,000 miles.
There were also repeated concerns about the paint job, particularly paint peeling and fading problems. And, during the year it was launched, NHTSA ordered a recall for the model four times due to steering issues, airbag defects, and faulty service brakes.
At the very least, Hyundai turned it around with the 2018 Elantra, one of the highest-rated Elantra models ever.
Common Issues With Hyundai Elantra
Electronic Stability Control Issue
ESC issues were prevalent for the 2010 to 2012 Elantra models. While no injuries were reported, NHTSA had to recall over 155,000 vehicles in the USA to avoid the risk of a crash.
In most cases, the ESC sensor malfunction would cause the brakes for one or more wheels to be applied unexpectedly and have the engine power reduced.
According to reports, the irregular illumination of the ESC indicator lamp was identified as an initial symptom.
Airbags Issue
Airbags have somewhat been an on-and-off issue with Elantra models, with the latest round of recalls occurring just in 2022.
Prior to that, some 2016 and 2017 units were recalled due to minor deployment and installation issues, respectively.
Additionally, more than 240,000 Elantra sedans from 2004 to 2005 models were recalled due to a possible computer or sensor error that might confuse a child seat for an adult in the passenger seat.
While most of these issues are not linked to each other, it’s worth noting these said recalls when you’re shopping for an older Elantra model.
Service Brakes and Hydraulic System
Service brakes have also been a cause of multiple recalls throughout the history of Elantra.
Notably, NHTSA in the US ordered an immediate recall of over 33,000 units of the 2017 Elantra to have the car’s brake booster fixed.
Before the recall, affected vehicles reported a sudden loss of power brake assist, which could potentially lengthen the distance needed to halt the vehicle.
No accidents were reported due to this defect, but it was inevitable that the airbag issues would compound with the service brake concerns to make the outlook even worse for the 2017 Elantra.
In 2023, a number of 2011 to 2015 Elantra models were also recalled due to a possible leak of brake fluid in the vehicles’ Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).
As you may have thought, these defects also influenced the best and worst Hyundai Elantra years in our list. In light of this, we recommend taking more precautions when dealing with used cars from the worst Elantra years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Elantra years should be avoided?
The Elantra years to be avoided are 2002, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2013, and 2017. These models had various safety issues and had the most recalls over the years.
What Elantra years had engine problems?
Hyundai Elantra’s fifth-generation models (2011 to 2016) had various engine concerns more than in other years.
A number of reported concerns described ticking noises, premature failures, and oil sludge problems. Some engines even had to be replaced to completely rid of the said defects.
What is the average mileage of Hyundai Elantra?
A well-maintained Elantra can remain stable for up to 150,000 miles, according to several auto insurance providers.
On the other hand, we’ve also seen well over 200,000 mileage from some proud owners, so perhaps mindful driving and routine maintenance can definitely help maximize the car’s value.
Additionally, these numbers are also not too far from Hyundai’s own estimates, which are 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Notably, the manufacturer projects 10–15 years of service, depending on the owner’s driving habits.
