2001-2006 Hyundai Elantra Pre-Owned

The Hyundai Elantra is one of those sensible used cars you may be considering if you’re not keen on shelling out the big bucks for a used Civic or Corolla. Hyundai’s been proving themselves as a carmaker to be reckoned with lately-- though their history in our market hasn’t always been peachy. For this and other reasons, they’re still not ‘on the radar’ of a surprising number of shoppers.

2005 Hyundai Elantra

The new fourth-generation Elantra is one of the Hyundai models seeking to change that. The latest version was launched for the 2007 model year-- after its predecessor had been on sale from 2001 to 2006 inclusive. Resale values are fairly low, so finding a decent used Elantra for not a whole lot of money should be a cinch.

Power in all third-generation models was produced by a two-litre four cylinder. Both power output and rated fuel consumption figures were slightly higher than average. Transmission choices were a five-speed stick or four-speed automatic, and horsepower was pegged between 136 and 140, depending on the year. All models drove the front wheels.

Though Elantra pulled off no surprises under the hood, it did offer a rarity in its class in terms of the five-door Elantra “GT” model. Focused on higher sportiness and utility than the standard model, it delivered a worthy option for folks after a cheap, fun and economical five-person hatch.

Look for hardware like air conditioning, tilt steering, cruise, leather-wrapped surfaces, remote access, four-wheel ABS disc brakes and a sunroof-- depending on the model in question. If you’re breaking out the classified ads for a look at used Elantras, note that GL is Hyundai-speak for ‘basic’ trim, and that the ‘VE’ or ‘GT’ indicate a more nicely-loaded model.

Drivers of many vehicles say an engine will turn in better mileage after it’s been run for a few thousand kilometres, and that’s likely the case here. Owners of this Elantra generation typically report tremendous satisfaction with the fuel consumption, despite EPA and transport Canada Ratings being higher than some competitors. Many driving enthusiasts appreciate the Elantra’s zippy performance and five-speed transmission shift action, too.

2005 Hyundai Elantra