2015 Hyundai Elantra GT

NEW FOR 2015:

- No major changes.

Hyundai’s Elantra GT carries over into 2015 without any major changes.

Launched in 2013, the stylish GT hatchback brings a bit of European flair into the Elantra range. Developed in Germany and sold overseas as the i30, it takes aim at the Ford Focus Hatchback and Volkswagen Golf.

Although the Elantra Sedan and the GT ride on the same platform, there are some considerable differences between the two; the chassis is more rigid, and Hyundai has put a lot of effort polishing the driving dynamics. The aerodynamic bodywork and good levels of sound insulation make it a quiet cruiser and it has the best ride quality in the Elantra family thanks to standard twin-tube Sachs damping. There’s even driver-selectable weight for the steering, though it does little for steering feel.

All Elantras come powered by a 2.0-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine which produces 173 hp and 154 lb-ft of torque. That’s considerably more than rivals like the Ford Focus and Subaru Impreza. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual; optional is a six-speed automatic.

Trims include L, GL, GLS, SE, and SE Tech.

In L trim, features include 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, four-way manually adjustable passenger seat, overhead sunglass holder, cooled glove box, 172-watt six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB and aux-in jack, air conditioning, front console with armrest and storage, power heated exterior mirrors, tilt and telescoping steering column, power door locks, power windows with driver’s side auto-down, and a rear spoiler.

GL adds satellite radio, Bluetooth, automatic headlights, heated front seats, remote keyless entry, and cruise control.

GLS adds 16-inch alloy wheels, eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, front fog lights, panoramic glass sunroof, leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, cloth door trim inserts, illuminated vanity mirrors, extending sun visors, and luggage bay storage space.

SE adds six-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, chrome exterior trim, front windshield wiper de-icer, sliding front armrest, driver’s window auto-up, auto-dimming rearview mirror, garage door opener, leather upholstery, dark chrome front grille, mirrors with integrated turn signals, and UV-tinted glass.

SE Tech adds 180-watt sound system, 7.0-inch touchscreen display system, reverse camera, and proximity key with push-button start.