Hyundai Elantra GT

Hyundai's reputation for packing loads of standard features into cars at a bargain price precedes it. And in the 2020 Elantra GT, it rings true yet again. This affordable hatchback has style and more cargo capacity than its rivals. And in the N Line trim, it comes with loads of standard features that buyers would typically pay extra to have.

The one thing we wish came standard is an engine with some gusto. The base powertrain is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that feels underpowered and emits a cringe-worthy groaning sound. Worse, it's not particularly efficient. You can upgrade to a smaller but stronger turbocharged 1.6-liter engine in the N Line version that packs quite a bit more punch, and it comes with either a manual transmission or a dual-clutch automatic.

But in general, the Elantra GT is well packaged and comfortable. It keeps wind and road noise out of the cabin, offers a smooth ride and functional technology (including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and has above-average cargo capacity. Hyundai takes all that and backs it up with a strong warranty and roadside assistance that is unmatched in the class.

Which Elantra GT does MatoCar recommend?

Hyundai offers the Elantra GT in two flavors: the base model and the N Line. The base GT comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (161 horsepower, 150 lb-ft) mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The N Line upgrades to a turbocharged 1.6-liter (201 hp, 195 lb-ft) with a six-speed manual or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Hyundai changed this trim's name from Elantra GT Sport to Elantra GT N Line to align with new performance models, including the Veloster N.

The base Elantra GT comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and a rearview camera. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard. We're fans of the sole package available on the base model. The Style package brings a larger color instrument display and a panoramic sunroof. And it adds valuable safety equipment such as lane change assist and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Along with the turbo engine, the N Line offers welcome features and an improved rear suspension that elevates ride comfort. The manual-equipped N Line gets heated seats, leather surfaces, 18-inch wheels, push-button start, LED headlights and taillights, and improved tires over the base model. The N Line with the dual-clutch automatic tacks on a drive-mode selector and all-season performance tires.

The Tech package is available on the automatic-equipped N Line for a fully loaded experience, with an 8-inch color touchscreen with navigation, a power driver's seat with lumbar support, ventilated seats and a seven-speaker Infinity premium audio system. Again, safety is the big plus, with the addition of forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go. A three-year subscription to Hyundai's Blue Link connected car service is thrown in for good measure.