As promised earlier in our Elantra review, we said we would review more models in Hyundai Canada’s line up. Well, recently we had the chance to spend some time behind the wheel of the new Hyundai Elantra GT. Built as a replacement to Hyundai’s Elantra Touring model, this innovative hatchback designed GT targets the North American buyer who requires loads of space but also wants a sporty, compact car. As winner of AJAC’s (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) award for Best New Small car (over $21,000) we were looking forward to seeing what the Hyundai Elantra GT had to offer.

Our tester model came in the GLS Auto trim now listed at MSRP $22,599 CAD.

Performance Features

• 1.8L Dual CVVT DOHC 16V Engine with 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque
• 6-Speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC®
• 4-Wheel Disc Brakes
• Driver Selectable Steering
• *Manufacturer fuel economy ratings are – City (AT) 7.6L/100km, Hwy (AT) 5.3L/100km, Combined (AT) 6.6L/100km

Although frugal overall we did not quite match these figures on our test period as we obtained 7.5L/100 km (31MPG) in a combined city and highway environment. These numbers are still solid considering we were in all types of mixed terrain. Across the Elantra line-up, all automatic transmission models come standard with an optional active eco system that modifies the engine and transmission control to help increase overall fuel efficiency. 

Safety Features

• Advanced Front Airbags, Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags, Roof -mounted Side-curtain Airbags (6)
• Driver Knee Airbag
• Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
• Keyless Entry and Alarm System

Interior Features

• AM/FM/XM®/CD/MP3 Player with 6 speakers
• Manual Air Conditioning
• Power Windows with Driver’s Auto Down 
• iPod®/USB/Auxiliary input jacks
• Trip Computer
• Driver’s Seat Height Adjuster
• Rear Seat Centre Armrest with Cupholders
• Power Door Locks
• Steering Wheel-mounted Audio and Cruise Controls
• Front Centre Console with Storage compartment and Fixed Armrest
• Heated Front Seats
• Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
• Cooled Glove Box
• Leather-wrapped Steering Wheel and Gear Shift Knob
• 8-way Power Driver’s seat with Lumbar Support
• Luggage Under Floor Box

Exterior features

• Roof-mounted XM® Antenna
• 16” Alluminum Alloy Wheels
• Front Fog Lights
• Panoramic Sunroof

In comparison to the Hyundai Elantra Coupe reviewed recently the interior of the Elantra GT was not exactly the same since our Coupe tester was a higher trim model. Nevertheless, our tester came with a black interior with sporty cloth front seats with white stitching, a leather wrapped steering wheel with both cruise and audio controls. Along with a slick-looking trip computer screen located between the gauges, the interior feels fun and provides a sporty persona. In addition, the one unique feature our GT model came with not included in the Coupe is the panoramic sunroof providing a true cool factor for a car in this price range.

As a four door hatchback, the GT is ultra convenient for getting in and out as well as providing both driver and passengers with ample leg and headroom.  During our test period, we headed north for some skiing/snowboarding and the GT was a perfect choice for the outing. The GT offers 651 liters of cargo room behind the rear seat versus the Elantra sedan’s 420 liter trunk and with the 60/40 split back seats folded down the total is a monstrous 1,444 liters of cargo room. As a result, the GT is very comfortable for taking three occupants along with all their ski gear out of the city for a day on the slopes.

Equipped with both traction control and Hankook snow tires, the GT handled the roads in ski country like a champ and was a real charm to drive in Ontario’s winter weather.

Competitors

The key players currently competing with the 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT for Canadian buyers include the Mazda3 Sport, Ford Focus hatchback, Subaru Impreza hatchback, Toyota Matrix, Kia Forte hatchback and Volkswagen Golf hatchback.  With so many strong competitors, Hyundai does have its work cut out for them however, the Hyundai Elantra GT offers great overall value. With its base trim levels starting at $19,149 through to $26,349 for the top of the line model its hard to beat the Elantra GT in dollar per dollar value comparisons. Therefore, if you are looking for a compact, sporty hatchback capable of tackling just about anything you give it make sure the Hyundai Elantra GT is on your shopping list.