Used 2003 Hyundai Elantra Hatchback Consumer Reviews
Euro-hatchback
Even though down in PR we don't get some of the features(No leather seats, Michelíns, Moonroof, fog lights, cruise control) you get on the Mainland, my Elantra GT it is still a super buy, with better feature content for $1500 to $2500 less.
Consumer's Choice
I did loads of research before buying this car as a cheap, reliable commuter. Looked at Civic, Corolla and other imports. For the money, I could buy new with a better warranty and more features with the Elantra than I could ever get with any of the others. GT 5spd hatchback with all the options. With the backseat down I can fit in a loveseat with the hatchclosed. I used this car as an installer for interior window treatments. I once got 32 boxed 2" wood blinds into the back with the hatch down. Could not believe it! I am 6'3" 255lbs and I have no problem getting in and out, or with an adult sitting behind me when I drive. The size of this car is deceptive. So far, very happy!
Okay car, but I found better
OK car overall. Nice interior - instrument panel and blue lighting were nice, but pleather was cheap. POOR GAS MILEAGE! About 18 MPG - Lower than sticker. Brake pads had to be replaced constantly. The auto trans was not that good, never had any probs with it, but it coulda shifted smoother. Engine had a rattle to it when accelerating up hills - had it checked out, but was told that the noise was normal and didn't seem to effect performance. Also when turning steering wheel, it made a scratching noise. Overall, the car had a few rattles and noises that were minor which didn't effect the performance of the car, but were annoying since they were constant.
A Bargain and Fun to Drive Too
It's been a joy to own and drive. The things you get for the price is hard to believe, even 4 years later. The hatchback styling is very Saabish and practical. The trunk is large (fits four tires perfectly) and with the seats folded, it's huge (10+ tires, full size desk, etc). The space, ride and quietness surprises everyone. Although the stock handling doesn't live up to the GT emblem, a Tiburon rear sway bar takes minutes to swap in. Reliability has been better than I expected - about one trip per year to the dealership and it's never left me stranded.
Fun unless you crash
The $ I paid, styling, and options make this a great car. Initially, my only qualm was concerning the hp. Hyundai released a report stating that they miscalculated the hp and the EGT only has 134 hp instead of 140. I bought this car because of its hp and felt cheated when I found this out and was not eligible for compensation. But, I just recently got into an accident and pretty much destroyed the front end of my car. The Integra I hit suffered negligible damage, but my bumper, grill and hood are going to have to be replaced. I was only going 30mph, too. Its a great car and I still love it, but I wish it had more hp and was built more solidly.