The 138 horsepower are transferred to the front wheels through a standard 5-speed manual transmission, although my GL tester featured the optional 4-speed autobox. While it may sound one gear shy of being sophisticated (read: trendy), this unit beautifully masks upshifts and downshifts. Plus, it likely helps keep the Touring more affordable.
What about the "Elantra" part?
Similar to the sedan, the interior of the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring is all black. That certainly won't liven up one's day! Moreover, the ultra-slick plastic trim on the steering wheel has a cheap, slippery feel. Cleaning it with Armor All would be suicide!
In GL trim, the controls on the middle section of the dashboard are packed in a narrow layout. Sure, the basic switchgear is all there, readily accessible and easy to use, but the overall look isn't likely to excite passengers at first glance. Even the stereo appears obsolete with those microscopic rectangular buttons. On a positive note, however, sound quality is very good.
Then again, the audio system in the top-of-the-line GL Sport model is much more up to date. In addition, the available glossy appliqués for the center stack and steering wheel improve interior aesthetics with a little je-ne-sais-quoi that I found very effective.
The height-adjustable bucket seats in all four models (L, L with Preferred Package, GL and GL Sport) allow an adequate driving position and generous peripheral visibility, making parking manoeuvres much easier.
In short, the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring boasts many attractive attributes for small, versatile hatchback buyers. And let's not forget the pair of trump cards in its sleeves: competitive pricing that makes most models less expensive than rivals, as well as one of the best warranties in the industry right now. For many, these considerations will easily eclipse the inconveniences caused by a vague steering and plasticky wheel!
photo:Philippe Champoux
What about the "Elantra" part?
Similar to the sedan, the interior of the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring is all black. That certainly won't liven up one's day! Moreover, the ultra-slick plastic trim on the steering wheel has a cheap, slippery feel. Cleaning it with Armor All would be suicide!
In GL trim, the controls on the middle section of the dashboard are packed in a narrow layout. Sure, the basic switchgear is all there, readily accessible and easy to use, but the overall look isn't likely to excite passengers at first glance. Even the stereo appears obsolete with those microscopic rectangular buttons. On a positive note, however, sound quality is very good.
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| The extremely-dull, all-black dashboard and plasticky steering wheel make for a cheap interior feel. |
Then again, the audio system in the top-of-the-line GL Sport model is much more up to date. In addition, the available glossy appliqués for the center stack and steering wheel improve interior aesthetics with a little je-ne-sais-quoi that I found very effective.
The height-adjustable bucket seats in all four models (L, L with Preferred Package, GL and GL Sport) allow an adequate driving position and generous peripheral visibility, making parking manoeuvres much easier.
In short, the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring boasts many attractive attributes for small, versatile hatchback buyers. And let's not forget the pair of trump cards in its sleeves: competitive pricing that makes most models less expensive than rivals, as well as one of the best warranties in the industry right now. For many, these considerations will easily eclipse the inconveniences caused by a vague steering and plasticky wheel!
photo:Philippe Champoux
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