2005 Hyundai Elantra GLS review from North America

At 1400 miles, the idle control setting had to be replaced. The Hyundai dealership did it in less than an hour and were incredibly friendly and helpful.

I have been nothing, but happy with this car. It looks beautiful from the outside - many people have remarked that it looks as nice as much higher end cars, and in my opinion it is the most distinctive in it's class... Much more attractive than a Civic or Corolla.

The interior is well-designed and has all the features that anyone could conceivably want. I love the way the gauges look at night - very modern and sophisticated. There are many convenient storage compartments, including a two-level center console with 2 cupholders, two small compartments near the steering wheel (great for cigarettes, lipstick, business cards, who knows?) and one on the passenger side, a really neat sunglasses holder that flips down when you press it... the list goes on. The way that the window/lock controls are designed is very sleek and almost looks like a luxury car's armrest configuration.

The seats are comfortable and the fabric is soft, seemingly-durable, and the slight patten on the grey interior is subtle and non-offensive (compared with that of the 2001-3 Elantra) The seats are very adjustable - there are two knobs that determine the angle and hardness of the back and seat cushions. My passengers have remarked that the rear is a little cozy, but comfortable, and the 3-point seatbelt in the center of the rear bench seat is a nice feature. The adjustable headrests on all seats are a feature that is usually found on much more expensive cars..

As far as performance goes - I find that the car has ample power, and acceleration with my manual transmission is swift and smooth. 1st gear is a little rough, but that is usually true in any case. The car shifts well and feels like a sporty little sedan.

Gas mileage seems pretty good, although I haven't gotten the 34 mpg that Hyundai advertises... No one believes those ratings anyway..

The steering/handling is one of the best things about the car. The steering wheel itself is well-designed and includes tilt, which is great for me because I am a petite female. The car corners excellently, and is very responsive to my steering. The car feels solid and properly aligned. All-around a very comfortable and smooth ride.

The stock stereo is decent, and sounds better than a lot of others in the same class. (although I did buy a new deck and upgrade the back speakers.)

My only major complaint is the road noise that occurs at high speeds. I listen to loud music often, but if I am not, and say, trying to carry on a conversation with a passenger while traveling 70 mph, the noise is really noticeable. I have also noticed a slight rattling in the driver's side door, which comes and goes. It's annoying, but not enough to regret my decision to purchase an Elantra.

I would recommend the Elantra to anyone. I love the feeling of driving it, and have no major complaints. It looks gorgeous, and sometimes as I am walking away from it, I can't help, but look back over my shoulder. The interior is excellently designed. The warranty is also killer, and I have had nothing, but great experiences with Hyundai dealerships. (I've been to two.) I do recommend the manual transmission, as it get better gas mileage and performs much better.

BUY AN ELANTRA! you will not regret your decision!