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Used 2002 Hyundai Elantra Hatchback Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
128 reviews

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4.63 out of 5 stars

LIFE SAVER!

ringman, 07/15/2005
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car in May, 2005 for my daughter (it only had 28000 miles). I own 2 mercedes' and a vette, but this car was quite comfortable and well built for the price --- definitely a great value. On July 4, a drunk driver collided with my daughter head-on on the freeway (est. closing speed of 140 mph!). My daughter survived with bruises and a back injury which she will recover from --- but, she may have been killed or paralyzed in another car (as was the passenger of the other car). As I see it, this car saved her life!!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent Car - I was Surprised!!!

Nate, 10/07/2005
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I'm at 35,000 miles on my Elantra GT and have loved every bit of the driving. Car warranty is excellent and valuable. The car has just been fantastic. I'm glad I did not buy a Honda or Toyota based on reputation alone. Rather, I did my research on Hyundai, found out that their mgmt changed in the late 1990s and that their new focus was on quality. That shows through with their new models, so if you are a Hyundai hater, then you are just misinformed. Take a test drive! These are fantastic cars and I have high standards!!! Hands down better value than civic or corolla, plus you get the warranty. Only downside is resale value. If you buy one, plan to drive it for a long time.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

90k+ miles later, I'm still rolling.

Mr. Volente, 04/13/2006
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I haven't had any major problems w/this car at all. I did have a recall which they fixed no problem. Everything else has been smooth sailing just about. The only thing that is a bit of a problem is are the lights- the die a lot so you have to keep replacing them, especially the fog lights. The car is quite durable, I've been through a few dings, and no problems. During one snow storm, I ran straight slam into the highway railing very fast and very hard and just knew the car was done for b/c of the sound of the impact. Somehow the car keeps driving, I get home, check it out, only 2 scraches, not real damage. Awesome. Gas is good, I'm getting about 28-29 per gallon. Trunk space awesome.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Great Car at a Better Price

Chuck, 10/03/2006
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I couldn't be happier with my 2002 Hyundai Elantra GT. It's been trouble- free for more than 20,000 miles, it's reasonably fun to drive, and it gets great mileage, especially on the freeway. My wife complains that it is too small, but it is what it is, a compact, economical, comfortable car. Also, with the hatchback, it will haul significant amounts of cargo when necessary. I even fit a set of full- size soccer goals into the back on one occasion.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Economical and Reliable

drbr, 02/18/2007
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We bought this car new in 2002. We test drove Toyotas and Hondas and tried Hyundai on a whim. Price not a factor, this was still our favorite of the three (Civic, Corolla and Elantra). It doesn't have much of a personality and some people sniff at the name badge, but for our money we couldn't be happier. We've replaced the tires and brakes and have 57k on the vehicle now. We get 33-36mpg highway. People complain about resale but we plan to keep this little econobox until it won't run anymore. My highest compliment for the vehicle is that we bought it while I was still in professional school and now that I've graduated I’m still proud to drive it though now we could afford something more.

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4 out of 5 stars

Carbon Blue Elantra GT

Edstrd, 04/11/2003
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Very nice vehicle for the money. Lots of options and a great commuter car.

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5 out of 5 stars

7K miles of reliability

IngridFlagstaff, 04/14/2003
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought the GT 8 months ago, put 7K miles on it, changed oil once. No other maintenance or any problems or rattles to report. This is the first new car I've ever bought. Did a lot of research and haven't regretted spending less money than my friends who bought Hondas and Toyotas. I'll be done with payments a year before they will be... If you want a reliable, sporty, economic, AND comfortable car consider an Elantra GT.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Cannot beat this car!!!!!!!!! 5 STAR A+

Chief Captain Moroni, 04/18/2003
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was looking for a new car and spent time reserching makes model and prices v/s quality. I narrowed it to two makes and models. The KIA Spectra GSX and the Hyundai Elantra Hatchback GT. I drove the KIA first and did not feel well about that experience. When I sat in the Elantra GT Hatch, it was instant Love. This is a great car with Standard Leather Seats, CD, Cruise, PW, PL, and a well laid out interior. You will not find a better warranty and some dealers are offering 12/120000 mile warranties if you buy from them. Super quality and Hyundai is now ranked equal to Honda quality. I can believe it. Get em while they are cheap. And remember Read the B.O.M.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great Value

Art S, 03/06/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I needed cheap transportation but still like some comforts and the GT is a great bargain. My daughter loves to drive it when she is home and she has a new Beetle and loves it but talks about how much fun to drive the GT is. Personally I love the trip computer and that was what made the difference for me.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

A great fun, reliable car!

pirategirl, 07/22/2007
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my Elantra GT for 5 years and I absolutely love it. It's given me no problems, it's fun to drive and with the hatchback and fold down seats it has a ton of cargo space. I opted for the manual 5 speed, I really didn't think the automatic had enough pep in it. We're now in the market for an SUV as well and we're definately looking at Hyundai - can't beat the value.

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5 out of 5 stars

Love this car

Edward Wronsky, 03/07/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I traded in my 1998 Tiburon, only because I wanted the additional protection of side impact airbags and occasional use of the rear seat for adults. I was initially attracted to the GT when I saw one on the dealer's lot, and couldn't believe how much car was available for sixteen thousand dollars. Since my experience with the quality of the Tiburon was very positive, I had no reservations about buying another Hyundai product.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best in class

drickey, 05/01/2003
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Hyundai Elantra GT is everything it was purported to be in 95% of the reviews I read. Mine has the two available options packages, power sunroof and Traction Control System with ABS. Many standard features including A/C; Leather seats, steering wheel and door trim; AM/FM/CD; 4 wheel disk brakes; side airbags; and many other items. Good handling on various road surfaces. Have driven the car hard and fast. Lots of power available when engine is mated to the manual transmission. Finding a GT with the manual was difficult, especially one fully loaded with the chianti paint. The only negative issues are minor. Overall this car is hard to beat.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Perfect Fit!

mogultek, 01/18/2003
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my Elantra GT for 6 months now, & I still love it. It is fun to drive & very comfortable. Although it is a very inexpensive car, it still has all of the options & style of one twice as expensive. When you think of buying a new car for less than $20,000, you think of having to sacrifice options like leather seats, lumbar support, or a power sunroof. I was very pleasantly surprised to find all of these options & many more inside the Elantra GT, & the best part was, not only was it under $20k, it was under $15k! Once I took it for a test drive, I knew that I was sold. It fits perfectly into my budget, as well as my lifestyle!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

What Are You Waiting For? Get This Car!

jr75, 05/21/2003
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had the Elantra GT for a year, and love it! Anyone "on the fence" about a Hyundai should really check out their new line -- esp the GT. These cars have terrific build quality, are reliable, and the features that cost an additional $3K-$4K in other cars are INCLUDED in the GT. Wife owns a Honda and she loves my car! Any fault that could possibly be found is beyond minor when you compare what you get vs. what you pay. Love the look of the car. Friends constantly stop me to ask if it's "really" a Hyundai. The photos on the site don't do it justice...Do yourself a favor -- put it on your list. Trust me, you're definitely NOT "settling."

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4.5 out of 5 stars

yea

elantraman, 05/29/2003
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Can not beat it for the price. Compare to similar vehicles not 20K+ cars. Comfortable.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great Car, Great Price

Sparky, 03/06/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I think the GT may be one of the best kept secrets in the automotive world. There's a ton of room inside, more power under the hood than most of it's competitors, and the best warranty in the business. I've average better than 31 mpg in the 3000 miles I've owned it and haven't had a single problem.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Hyundai's Sports Sedan

jimpimms, 03/14/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

A bona fide sports sedan, and all for a paltry $13,999 MSRP. The included equipment for that price is phenomenal. Even with the moonroof-ABS-traction control package, it's barely over 15Gs (plus delivery, fees, and taxes). Fit and finish is superb, inside and out. With the traction control option, the car refuses to plough in the corners, and holds the road like it's on rails, even in the wet. The gutsy 2.0 litre 140hp engine accelerates spiritedly, ride and handling are well-balanced, and NVH is minimal. Add the impressive warranty and 5 year unlimited mileage roadside assistance, and it's a deal you can't refuse.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

i had wanted a passat but....

wow, 03/14/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

after exteensive searching, i had labeled a 99 vw passat my "dream car" but with the price and the bad things i keep hearing about maintanence with vws i kept looking. after seeing the 02 elantra gt i have a new dream car. i can't get over how classy it looks, how loaded it is in just the base model or how inexpensive it is!

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5 out of 5 stars

I didn't have to "Settle"

Houdsiecup, 03/15/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I had to purchase a second car that was safe, economical, fun to drive, but most importantly inexpensive. I foresaw myself driving a stripped down VW Golf since I needed a hatchback for my dog. Then along comes the Elantra GT. The GT offers so much to a driver for so little. The interior is chock full of amenities that will cost thousands more in other cars; CD player, leather, trip computer, keyless remote... On the exterior, the upgraded suspension, alloy wheels and Michelin tires were a huge selling point. The engine is powerful though lacking good acceleration (my last car was a VW with a VR6). But the fuel economy speaks volumes.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

ride to cali

jasonM, 03/18/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

i just baught the elantra gt about a mounth ago. about a week after i bought it my grandmother took a spill out side her house in california and broke her hip. i decided to get time off of work and take a trip down to help her out. now i live in north dakota and my grandmother lives about 30 minutes north east of sacremento CA. i took her through everything from dirt roads in north dakota to snowy passes in montana, washington, and oregon and rough traffic in portland and sacremento. she preformed extermely well in all envirements. her handling never got rougher no matter what terrain or how much snow and rain were coming.id just like to thank the guys who built it.

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5 out of 5 stars

A little gem.

Randy Wobser, 03/19/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Hyundai has come a great distance since the Excel arrived in the 80's. This car does not rattle. The fit and finish is on par with Honda, the styling is above average. The interior is well-appointed. (the leather was a nice feature.) The car is very fun to drive. You really need to drive it to appreciate it. This car is an intelligent and as impressive a design as the first Saab 900.

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5 out of 5 stars

Who would have thought this is a Hyudai?

Jasperblu, 03/24/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I wanted vehicle that would better accommodate my 2 dogs, passengers, groceries, etc. I also wanted my new car to be sporty with a manual transmission and good safety features that came standard. Very few cars in my price range met my requirements. The Elantra GT did! I do have some "complaints" about styling and layout (the sunroof rattles, the front hood grill is a bit flimsy, no lighting in the backseat, the alloy wheels are easily scratched, the gas tank flap frequently gets stuck). Overall, I am very pleased with the Elantra GT's design and performance. This is a car I expect to drive for many years and I think it will hold up quite nicely indeed.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Happy so far!

Jessica, 03/29/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

have to say that the biggest appeal to this car is the fact that not many people even know about it yet, it hasnt become the standard like the honda civic

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5 out of 5 stars

All 10's!!

ToddF, 03/31/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Face it...You are not going to find a better deal anywhere. Hyundai is not the company they used to be. What other car manufacture would stand behind their product for 10 years if they were junk? The Elentra GT is a great car. It is well built, solid, powerful and inexpensive. What other car are you going to get all power, LEATHER, alloy wheels, 4 wheel disc brakes, a/c, 6 speaker CD stereo for under $15,000? And those cool purple illuminated instruments are nice too! I LOVE THIS CAR!!

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5 out of 5 stars

"Highway Robbery"

rwrslickrick, 04/01/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I absolutely love this car. I will find myself driving down the road with a stupid grin of delight on my face. I walked away with this car for under $15K and almost feel guilty as if I stole it. The manual (my first) is a blast to drive. If you don't have a stop and go commute, I would definitely recommend the 5-speed. The interior is nicely thought out with alot of storage. All in all, this car has a little something for everyone. Sporty, roomy, efficient, practical, and luxurious (no joke). I couldn't be happier, because I didn't break the bank, but yet, I don't feel as if I compromised. I doubt I would've said the same with a Civic, or Corolla.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

OK value and practical car

Doug, 05/07/2009
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful

Pros: easy on the eye; very roomy interior for smallish car with nice leather; nice suspension that handles bumps very well, gives impression of heavier and higher end car. Cons: Engine runs very hot, maybe inefficient design since gas mileage below average; sheet metal very soft (thin gauge?) and prone to dings and dents; very uncomfortable front seats for interstate driving; headlights burn out too often; sun roof causes annoying hums and air pressure waves when used. I would not recommend this car although it is average and of OK value for its price. My advice if you buy one is stay well clear of Hyundai dealer who scam you by calling every 3,ooo miles a "service" at $100+

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4.5 out of 5 stars

I love my Hyundai!

Jake, 02/08/2009
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car brand new and have driven 122,000 miles with NO major problems. The suspension, exhaust, and air conditioning are all holding up well and have never been serviced! The ONLY thing I think Hyundai could have done better is increase the time between replacements of the timing belt which is set for every 60k miles. Dealerships want to charge over $1100 for the service, but I can get it done at Midas for $450 - it's a pain because they usually want the car for the entire day. Even with that, the maintenance costs have been super low and all I do is regular oil changes. I hope to keep this car for another 80k at least!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

great car, great value

trunks, 03/14/2002
2002 Hyundai Elantra GT 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

i love my car! it feels and drives like it costs $10,000 more! the interior is comfortable, roomy, holds my snowboard easily, great for drive in movies, and the leather feels smooth! the drive quality is also smooth, road noise could be a little better, but otherwise, can't find anything wrong. sunroof and windows work great, CD stereo sounds great, keyless works flawlessly, and the speedometer looks cool blue!

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