Introduction
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan that offers a combination of style, practicality, and efficiency. Known for its smooth ride, impressive list of features, and value-oriented pricing, the 2015 Elantra continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and economical vehicle. With a sleek exterior design, a well-appointed interior, and a choice of efficient engine options, the 2015 Elantra serves as a solid option in the competitive compact car segment.
History & Origins
The Hyundai Elantra was first introduced in 1990 as a compact sedan that would serve as a more affordable alternative to other sedans in the market. Over the years, it has evolved to offer more advanced technology, improved performance, and refined styling. The 2015 model marks the continuation of the sixth generation of the Elantra, which debuted in 2010. By 2015, the Elantra had become known for its reliability, excellent value, and a reputation for providing a comfortable driving experience without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
Engine & Performance Options
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra offers two main engine options, both designed to balance power with fuel efficiency.
- Base Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder engine producing 145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission and delivers a smooth and efficient driving experience.
- Eco Model Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder engine, tuned for efficiency, producing 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque. The Eco model features a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for improved fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Economy:
- The base 1.8L engine achieves an estimated 26 mpg city / 38 mpg highway.
- The Eco model, with its dual-clutch transmission, offers improved efficiency at an estimated 32 mpg city / 40 mpg highway.
The Elantra is equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD) and provides a smooth and comfortable ride ideal for urban and highway driving.
Design & Features
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra features a sleek, modern design that reflects Hyundai’s shift towards more refined styling. With flowing lines, a bold front grille, and stylish headlights, the Elantra has a more premium appearance compared to some of its competitors in the compact sedan segment.
- Exterior: The 2015 Elantra offers a distinctive, aerodynamic shape with sharp creases and a dynamic stance. The sedan’s size allows for easy maneuverability while maintaining a comfortable interior cabin.
- Interior: The cabin of the 2015 Elantra is well-appointed, offering spacious seating for five passengers. It features quality materials, with soft-touch surfaces and a user-friendly dashboard layout. Higher trims include leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an upgraded audio system.
- Cargo Space: The Elantra offers a generous 14.8 cubic feet of trunk space, one of the best in its class.
Technology features in the Elantra include a standard 6-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, a 4.3-inch display, and available upgrades such as a 7-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium audio system.
Trim Levels & Variants
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra is available in several trims, each offering different features to suit various preferences and budgets:
- Elantra SE: The base trim, offering a well-rounded set of features such as the 1.8L engine, air conditioning, a 6-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and keyless entry.
- Elantra Value Edition: Adds features like a power-adjustable driver’s seat, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a rearview camera.
- Elantra Eco: Focused on maximizing fuel efficiency, this trim features the 1.8L engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, as well as unique aerodynamic wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires.
- Elantra Limited: The higher trim level with additional luxury features, such as leather upholstery, a premium audio system, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and available navigation.
- Elantra Sport: This trim is equipped with a more powerful engine and sportier features, such as larger wheels and more aggressive styling elements, delivering a more dynamic driving experience.
Safety & Technology
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra offers a strong suite of standard and available safety features, with an emphasis on protecting both the driver and passengers.
- Standard Safety Features:
- Front, side, and curtain airbags.
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS).
- Electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control.
- Rearview camera (available on higher trims).
- Optional Safety Features:
- Blind-spot detection.
- Rear cross-traffic alert.
- Parking sensors.
- Lane-departure warning (available on higher trims).
In terms of technology, the Elantra offers an intuitive infotainment system with available upgrades like the 7-inch touchscreen, navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (available on higher trims), making it one of the more tech-savvy vehicles in the compact car segment.
Fuel Economy & Efficiency
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra is widely known for its impressive fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for those looking to save at the pump.
- 1.8L 4-cylinder (Base and SE Models):
- Estimated 26 mpg city / 38 mpg highway.
- 1.8L 4-cylinder (Eco Model):
- Estimated 32 mpg city / 40 mpg highway.
The Eco model provides the best fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize economical driving.
Market Comparison
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra competes with several other compact sedans that offer similar features and performance. Some of its main competitors include:
- Toyota Corolla: Known for its reputation for reliability, the Corolla offers a similar combination of fuel efficiency and practicality, though it has a more conservative design compared to the Elantra.
- Honda Civic: A long-standing leader in the compact car segment, the Civic offers sporty handling and a strong reputation for reliability. However, the Elantra tends to offer a more modern design and more standard features at a competitive price.
- Mazda3: The Mazda3 is praised for its driving dynamics and upscale interior, but it often comes at a slightly higher price compared to the Elantra.
- Kia Forte: As a sibling model to the Elantra, the Kia Forte shares much of the same mechanical platform, but with a different design and trim offering. It is often priced similarly, making it another excellent value choice.
Overall, the Elantra’s combination of stylish design, impressive fuel economy, and a comprehensive features list makes it a strong contender in the compact car market.
Pricing
The pricing for the 2015 Hyundai Elantra varies depending on the trim level and optional features:
- Elantra SE: Starting around $17,250.
- Elantra Value Edition: Starting around $18,000.
- Elantra Eco: Starting around $19,000.
- Elantra Limited: Starting around $21,000.
- Elantra Sport: Starting around $21,500.
The 2015 Elantra provides strong value for the money, offering a well-rounded list of features and efficient performance at a competitive price point within its segment.
Notable Awards & Accolades
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra has received recognition for its affordability, value, and safety:
- 2015 IIHS Top Safety Pick: The Elantra received high marks in crash tests, earning the Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- KBB Best Buy Award Finalist (Compact Cars): The Elantra was recognized as a finalist in the Best Buy category for compact cars by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), thanks to its value-oriented pricing and overall quality.
- Consumer Reports Recommended Buy: The 2015 Elantra received positive reviews for its reliability, safety, and overall value, earning it a spot on Consumer Reports’ list of recommended buys.
