The 2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition shows style and real value in the sedan market. When it comes to cars priced under $20k or a little over you cannot miss taking a look at the Elantra Value Edition. I drove it for a week and found it to be both surprising and about what you would expect. Here’s why:
On the Outs
Outside the Elantra Value Edition boasts 16-inch alloy wheels and keyless entry, daytime running lights and side mirror turn indicators. In my tested model the ‘Geranium Red’ was cheery and contrasted well with the black on black interior and aluminum front entrance sills. A power Tilt-and-Slide sunroof are an appreciated standard feature. The rear center arm rest with cupholders and 60/40 split in the back seat work well and the trunk is roomier than you would think. The exterior still looks fresh and stylish despite the fact that it hasn’t been redone in a few years. Many still find it to be a good looking sedan, with me included. It can hold its own against its competitors.
Get In
On the inside the 2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition shows off its chrome molding, push button start, a leather-wrapped tilt telescope wheel and heated front seats. It is a fairly basic interior but not uncomfortable or without some charm. I think the Elantra makes an excellent commuter car or first car.
To the point and with no distractions the 4.3 inch display is easy to navigate.
The Daily Drive
I used this car to drive all over Northern Virginia. From small towns to highway driving and navigating city streets this light model car gets you where you need to go safely and without many issues. If you are looking for power however, try the Sport model (2.0L engine) of the Elantra. The 1.8L, 148 horsepower on the Value Edition Elantra will give you a quiet cabin ride but won’t compete in the high-speed lane especially when full of passengers or cargo.
This fuel efficient model gets an average of 28 city, 38 highway with a combined 32 mpg. When I say that I drove it all over the area for a week, I did and never had to think about filling up on gas. That makes it an excellent commuter car, which many in the DMV can appreciate. It being a Hyundai you know this car will last for many years to come too. I just wish it had handled the recent additions of potholes and the daily speed bumps that the NoVA area has a plethora of right now. The suspension could be better but it is about what you would expect in a sedan of this caliber.
Why Buy?
Like I stated before, the 2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition makes a great first car or commuter car. It gets you around in a modicum of style with more than the standard features. You will appreciate the leather shift knob combined with the leather-wrapped steering wheel as much as you will love the heated seats and six-speaker sound system. It’s not just a basic economy sedan. Like all other Hyundai vehicles, the Value Edition boasts a bit more making it a good buy. The five-star overall government safety rating is just another reason to take a look at this version of the long beloved Elantra. Base model Value Edition Elantra starts at $20,700. As tested with cargo kit, rear wing spoiler, Bonglovi premium audio and more the MSRP is $22,390.
*TMC was not paid for this post. Opinions are 100% my own. Car provided by Drive Shop.
