1996 Hyundai Elantra Review
Fuel Economy
22 - 24 mpg
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Good Commuter Car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 4 | Fun-to-Drive: | 6 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 5 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 8 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
1996 Hyundai Elantra 4 Dr STD Sedan
Review
Have put on 100-140 miles daily for for almost 8 years of use. Now have 279K on vehical. Major service include refurbished AT tranny at 147k ($1300) and recent water pump ($450) plus timing belt service, used power steering pump,gas filter,2 radiator fan motors,3rd set of tires (90K ea) Have not replaced alternator,muffler,or injector servicing. Check engine light has been on for 100k now. Have crack low on exhaust manifold but still get 35 to 38 mpg freeway,combo 30-33. Still no oil,tranny leaks...amazing! All my previous American cars have messed up my garage!
Favorite Features
Was going to use vehical as a "throw away" commuter car, but it has not given me a chance to do so. Overall transportation costs is very low with paid off vehical. Best car ever had.
Suggested Improvements
Redesign transmission. Even the refurbished after a few miles had similar 2-3 gear free wheeling problem but with proper maint...ok for now. Suspension is terrible but use to it. Radio could be greatly improved.
Keeps on Going
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 6 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 6 | ||
Vehicle
1996 Hyundai Elantra 4 Dr STD Sedan
Review
I have over 180,000 on my 1996 Elantra and it just keeps on going. I've never had to do any major work on it. The paint and exhaust system on the car, however, could use some improvements. Very easy to scratch. The interior could be improved. But again, mechinacally it is awsome.
Favorite Features
If you are looking for a car that keeps going and going... this might be the one. I'll write another review here when it finally dies... otherwise assume that there is an Elantra out there with 180 K + miles and rising, out there.
Suggested Improvements
Better interior, bigger cup holders, more resiliant paint.
96 Elantra Wagon
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 6 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 6 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
1996 Hyundai Elantra 4 Dr GLS Wagon
Review
Overall the vehicle performed well. It was reasonable on gas. It seemed to require more brake maintence than normal. The extended warranty was worth the cost as several items needed to be replaced before 75,000 Scheduled regular maintenance by Hyundai is pricey, especially the timing belt. The Dealer fixed items at no charge that were no longer under warranty for Good- Will. I would recommend the purchase of an Elantra if you get rebates and a good price.
Favorite Features
Hyundai has the Shop manual and troubleshooting guides FREE on-line (internet) Dealer rides for customers to home, work, shopping, etc. Free rental car for long repairs
Suggested Improvements
A non-interference engine would be better. Different or better quality brakes. Better sounding Horn(s)
2 out 2 people found this review helpful
Nice little car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 6 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 7 |
| Fuel Economy: | 5 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
1996 Hyundai Elantra 4 Dr GLS Sedan
Review
Bought it used, had it for almost 3 years, about 80k now. Pretty happy so far. Relatively fun to drive, stable on the highway, fast, roomy. Mostly Minor problems and maintanance, but parts for Huyndai are pretty expensive. Overrall, a very nice car, but not as cheap to maintain as the price may suggest.
Favorite Features
Surprisingly good quality interior for its class (GLS only). Love it! No blind spots. Good highway milage.
Suggested Improvements
Very poor dealership service around DC - very dishonest. Tried 2 of them and very dissatisfied with both. Body roll in corners. Not-so cold AC.
Pleasantly surprised!!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
1996 Hyundai Elantra 4 Dr GLS Sedan
Review
Car has done us well as we have over 125,000 miles now. Changed the oil every 3000 miles and the car has reciprocated. Only problems have been with the check engine light coming on (several recalls and a new gas cap). Have only replaced the clutch once and the brakes once or twice. Recently had to replace the wiper motor and window regulator at about $200 each, but that's been the only problems. Just bought a 2003 Santa Fe based upon our favorable experience with this car.
Favorite Features
Great gas mileage (over 400 miles/tank), surprising acceleration with a 5-speed, GLS came with power windows/locks/mirrors and AC for a great price. Fold down rear seats are very practical.
Suggested Improvements
Interior - road noise is loud at or above 70 MPH.
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