The Hyundai Elantra Blue
By Zaheer on Apr 28, 2011 with Comments 0
Isn’t it ironic that the Hyundai Elantra uses the color blue for its latest outing? Most hybrid cars want to be associated with the color green because of the save-the-environment that most car companies are trying to achieve. The trend toward electric and hybrid cars have opened up new markets and have created a whole new sub-industry in the vehicle market.
Cruising down the highway was as quiet as summer evening. Not much engine noise, the tires barely squeaked, and the wind noise was non-existent. The virtually noiseless travel will let you utilize the Bluetooth system. The Elantra’s $325 Bluetooth system is excellent but has no integration with the vehicle’s sound system.
The engineers of the Elantra Blue put a ‘smart’ alternator management system, revised gear transmission, upgraded engine calibration, less friction for the engine components and a shift indicator to make the unique ‘Blue’ of the Elantra. The new and improved efficient mileage Elantra will brand the ‘Blue’ models of Hyundai. The Elantra will pave the way for optimum engine efficiency and gas mileage for Hyundai.
The Elantra Blue gives off a cheap feel relative to its competitors in the same category. You can feel it in the uncomfortable front seats and very hard interior materials. The light insulation free trunk also felt cheap.
Despite the Elantra’s shortcomings it is still a thrifty alternative, good, and inexpensive new car. The Elantra has plenty of interior space and in the back seats which is excellent for its price range.
The Elantra falls short of its Japanese competitors because of an aura of cheapness that is hard to overlook. It is noticeable in the ride and isolation, the engine is not loud enough to start a riot but you’ll feel every pebble and bump on the road because of a lack of suspension between the driver’s seat and the road.
The Elantra’s main rival would be the new Forte by Kia. The Forte matches the Elantra’s base price and also has a ten-year warranty. But the Forte is as refined as diamonds and as stylish as a Picasso painting.
Another similar car out there on the market with the Elantra is the Fit. Both cars share the price of $14,000.
The Fit is more versatile and has better materials inside are in the Fit’s favor. But Hyundai wins this battle because the car creates less noise (wind, road, and engine) and glides on the highway for long stretches. The front seats were also comfortable but could use an extra bolstering here and there.
Filed Under: Industry News