2013 Hyundai Elantra GT Is Our I30: 2012 Chicago Auto Show

Derek Kreindler
by Derek Kreindler

The last time we got an Elantra GT was in the early 2000s, when Hyundai brought over a quirky five-door that resembled the Mazda6 hatchback more than the re-badged Hyundai i30 you see here. Now dubbed the Elantra GT (rather than the Elantra Touring of the previous i30), the Mazda3 and Subaru Impreza just got a new challenger in the 5-door compact segment.

The 148 horsepower 1.8L 4-cylinder makes 148 horsepower and returns 28/39 mpg for a 32 mpg combined average. This beats the Impreza and matches the Mazda3 SkyActiv (though a forthcoming review will show that while Jack Baruth managed to match the Elantra’s EPA figures, my Mazda3 didn’t hit its mark). Of the two sedans, the Mazda3 is the better driving car, but the i30’s European roots will hopefully translate into solid driving dynamics.

The Hyundai takes the cake for styling, and will probably have a nicer interior. In addition to the usual Elantra content, there’s a refrigerated glovebox, a feature also seen on the Dodge Caliber.

Derek Kreindler
Derek Kreindler

More by Derek Kreindler

Comments
Join the conversation
5 of 31 comments
  • Steven02 Steven02 on Feb 08, 2012

    I really don't like Hyundia's new direction in styling. I wasn't a fan of the Sonata when it came out. Not crazy about the way it looks. This has gotten worse.

  • Shaker Shaker on Feb 08, 2012

    I hope that a domestic manufacturer can match this before the Koreans get more of my money. I had high hopes for a Cruze wagon, but the gas mileage is not good for the sedan, so that means the wagon won't be too hot, either. Oh, well, I can wait - it's not like my '08 Elantra is giving me any trouble - but when my gout flares up, that clutch pedal is a bee-atch.

  • Michael Karesh Michael Karesh on Feb 08, 2012

    Though the GT was initially only available as a hatch, Hyundai later added a sedan variant (along with a non-GT hatch IIRC). I drove one of the early hatches and concluded that "GT must be Korean for standard leather," as the suspension was not remotely worthy of a GT badge.

  • Dts187 Dts187 on Feb 08, 2012

    I like the look of this. I also like that there is another player in the compact hatch game. The Mazda3 will probably drive better but for those who like in-car gadgetry the Elantra GT should be a hit. I can imagine someone cross-shopping the GT and a Focus. If it can match the driving feel of the Focus, I think the GT represents a more refined and mature looking option. Hopefully the GT will provide the fit, finish, and surprising interior quality of the Veloster in more conventional sheet metal.

    • Moorewr Moorewr on Feb 08, 2012

      If it is anything like the current Elantra Touring, this car will probably handle far better than the regular Elantra - possibly better than the whole rest of the line up, Genesis Coupe included.

Next