The Hyundai Elantra is a mid-size vehicle according to European classification, manufactured by Hyundai Motor Company. Initially, the model was sold under different names such as Lantra and Avante in certain markets due to trademark disputes with similar-sounding brands like Lotus Elan, Kia Elan, and Mitsubishi’s Elante trim package for the Australian market. However, following the discontinuation of competing models with similar names, the 2001 generation was introduced universally as the “Elantra” across all markets except South Korea and Malaysia.
The Hyundai Elantra has consistently ranked among the top ten most fuel-efficient vehicles on the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) list. Notably, between 2006 and 2007, it secured the second position in the sedan category and was recognized as one of the most efficient non-hybrid midsize sedans.
In 2008, the Hyundai Elantra SE received the prestigious “top pick” award from Consumer Reports, a highly respected publication. The model also featured prominently in nearly all of the magazine’s 2008 rankings, consistently placing among the top ten contenders.
According to research conducted by J.D. Power and Associates, the 2009 Elantra was awarded the distinction of being the best-built compact car, outperforming models from automotive giants like Toyota and Honda in terms of build quality.