We don't just talk cars ... we teach how to buy them.
"Used Hyundai Elantra Model Guide And How To Get The Best Deal!"
We couldn't help but sit up and pay attention when the Elantra started getting Edmunds.com's "Editors Most Wanted" award. We also started getting requests for them. And now, many Elantras later, we're true believers ourselves. This is one nice car ... and at a price that's really challenging the competition.
We really like its easy drive, quieter and smoother than one would expect from a compact. Its performance, maneuverability and handling are excellent and its suspension smooths out the rough spots. Acceleration is very good and is absolutely impressive with the manual shift. And all while getting very good gas mileage.
Interior space is also another plus. Leg room in the backseat is actually remarkable for a vehicle this size. And the seating is firm and comfortable. What's more, the build quality is solid and the feature list is impressive for a small sedan in this price range.
The current generation (its fourth) of Elantra has been produced for the 2007 through 2010 model years. And while there is a four-door hatchback known as the Elantra Touring, the Elantra is actually a sedan, available in two models: GLS and SE.
The base GLS model is pretty thinly equipped, but many can be found with the optional Popular Equipment package that added many features, such as cruise control, air conditioning and a 6-speaker audio system with satellite radio, a CD player and a USB/iPod audio jack.
All of these features are standard on the SE model. In addition, used Elantras can be found with other stand-alone options such as leather upholstery, heated front seats and a sunroof.
Powering all Elantra models is a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 138 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque, and is coupled with either a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual.
Initially, there was a third trim in this generation, the Limited. But it was discontinued for 2008 and replaced with an options package for the SE. 2008 also marked the addition of brake assist and stability control to the SE as standard features. And for the 2009 model year, the tuning for both the suspension and steering were revised and the USB/iPod audio jack was made available.
The earlier generation, produced from 2001 to 2006, is also a worthy and popular used car choice. It was this generation that represented a significant upgrade over the Elantras of the 90's and really put the Elantra on the map as a legitimate contender.
This Elantra was larger, had a more upscale appearance and offered a more generous feature list than its predecessors. Build quality and reliability were also much improved. Features such as full power accessories, air conditioning and side airbags were not normally available from competitors in this price range. And with its fuel efficient, 135 horsepower 2.0 liter engine (138 after 2003), a star was born as gas prices rose.
The gas mileage for the five-speed manual Elantra, for example, is 27 mpg city and 34 mpg on the highway.
There was also an Elantra hatchback, the Elantra GT, that was introduced in 2002 (and produced through the 2006 model year) and had some additional standard features such as leather upholstery and a CD player.
Overall, while the Elantra may not have all the refinement of the more expensive small sedan leaders like the Honda Civic, it remains a highly recommended used car choice for shoppers who want to stay on a tighter budget. The gas savings is very appealing as well.
How To Buy A Used Hyundai Elantra At The Best Price:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Elantra at the lowest price and even at wholesale, depending on which method personally fits you best.
ONE - Car Auctions:
First, you can check for used Elantra at Wholesale Local Public And Bank Car Auctions. While this method isn't for everyone and will likely take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly outstanding buys for those who shop these auction events. This article covers how to locate these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage.
TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. This article details the best way to carry out this process. It's just amazing what happens to prices when true competition takes place.
Also ...
If you're interested in a "Brand New" Hyundai Elantra, there are some great deals to be had right now if you know how.
People swear by the interesting method detailed in this article for getting the absolute lowest price on any new car.
