2020 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra retained its bold restyling from 2019, maintaining a geometric-influenced appearance that set the stage for the 2021 model's dramatic angular styling. Available in five versions—Essential, Preferred, Luxury, Ultimate, and Sport—the 2020 Elantra's price ranged from $17,099 to $27,549, excluding a $1,825 destination charge. The Elantra GT hatchback was also offered. A black paint job highlighted the angular design elements, contrasting with chrome detailing to create a stylish, albeit divisive, small car. Inside, the Elantra's interior was updated with silver trim accents, though hard plastics reminded occupants of its mainstream compact status.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Elantra embraced Hyundai’s Sensuous Sportiness design language, featuring sharp creases and dramatic angles for a distinctive look. The controversial Z-shaped dent in the doors added unique character. Available in Essential, Preferred, N Line, and Ultimate trims, with hybrid options for Preferred and Ultimate, the 2021 Elantra's pricing started at $17,899 for the base model and reached $27,599 for the N Line, excluding $1,725 in destination charges. The interior boasted a driver-focused dashboard, with higher trims offering upscale materials and technology, such as the Ultimate's modern gray interior, which provided a stark contrast to the otherwise black cabin.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra featured a 147-horsepower, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a new CVT, replacing the previous six-speed automatic. The CVT, known as the "Intelligent Variable Transmission," offered simulated gear shifts for a traditional automatic feel. Despite Hyundai's claims of improved fuel efficiency, real-world testing showed an average of 8.0 L/100 km, falling short of the expected 6.8 L/100 km. The Elantra Sport trim offered a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine with 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, featuring an independent rear suspension for improved ride quality. However, the standard Elantra's torsion beam axle rear suspension detracted from ride and handling, making it more of a commuter vehicle than a performance car.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra offered a similar 2.0-litre engine with 147 horsepower and a CVT, achieving 7.5 L/100 km in testing. The Elantra Hybrid combined a 1.6-litre engine with an electric motor for 139 horsepower, averaging 5.6 L/100 km. The N Line replaced the Sport trim, featuring a 1.6-litre turbo engine with 201 horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension. The high-performance Elantra N boasted a 2.0-litre turbo engine with 276 horsepower, offering a thrilling driving experience with its electronically controlled suspension and advanced features. The Elantra N's performance was likened to the Veloster N, providing a dynamic and engaging drive.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered spacious accommodations for four adults, with a fifth person fitting for short trips. The test car featured power driver’s seat adjustment, leather upholstery, and a sliding centre console armrest. Upper trims included dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats, though rear passengers lacked air conditioning vents. The trunk provided 407 litres of space, with a convenient interior grab handle for closing.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra was classified as a midsize car, offering ample space for passengers. The driver’s seat was height-adjustable, and the steering wheel was tilt/telescopic. However, the height-adjustable front passenger seat was removed. The Elantra boasted best-in-class rear-seat legroom, though the backrest shape lacked upper back support. The trunk measured 402 litres, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. Some versions included a hands-free trunk lid release, but the interior grab handle was no longer available.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came with a touchscreen infotainment system, with screen sizes ranging from 5 to 8 inches depending on the trim. The Ultimate trim featured a wireless charging pad and a premium Infinity sound system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and volume/tuning knobs, and the voice recognition system was satisfactory.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate trim had an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system included a dynamic voice recognition system and a Sounds of Nature function. A new Bose premium audio system was available, providing impressive sound quality for the price point.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) on the Preferred trim, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Ultimate grade added full LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with a noted concern about rear-door intrusion during side-impact tests.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra featured a new platform with multiple structural collision energy pathways. Most trims included Hyundai’s SmartSense ADAS, with features like forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Additional safety upgrades included cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, and Highway Drive Assist, offering smooth and refined operation.