2006 Hyundai Elantra Review
Price Estimate: $1,199 - $1,995
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Average price: $3,899
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Hyundai Elantra model years
Hyundai Elantra types
- Hatchback
- Sedan
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Long list of standard features, comfortable interior with lots of storage, generous warranty.
Cons
- Engine lacks midrange pep, floaty highway ride with base suspension, hard to find equipped with ABS.
What’s new
A Limited sedan with leather seats and wood grain accents has been added to the Elantra lineup.
Edmunds says
With its low price, roomy cabin and above-average materials, the 2006 Hyundai Elantra is still worth a try if you're looking for value in a small sedan or hatchback. Keep in mind, however, that newer competitors have moved ahead of it in performance and overall refinement.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
24 listings
- 169,153 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- 23 City / 31 Hwy MPG, Manual
- Platinum Auto Sales of Arlington Virginia (23 mi away)
- Alarm
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Arlington, VA
Non-smoker owner, Vehicle Runs Well, Smooth ride, All records in possession, Regularly maintained, Lots of storage, Arctic cold a/c, No pets, Seats as...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (23 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KMHDN46DX6U222076
Stock: KMHDN46DX6U222076
Certified Pre-Owned: No- 125,131 miles
- 23 City / 31 Hwy MPG, Manual
- Auto Headquarters (191 mi away)
- Alarm
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Lakewood, NJ
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary Unavailable.
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (23 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KMHDN46D56U369017
Stock: 242
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-08-2026
Vehicle overview
The Hyundai Elantra has always been a winner in our opinion, especially after it got a complete overhaul in 2001, adding interior space and exterior size, along with a full load of standard equipment, without a substantial boost in the price. For those who still have their doubts, Hyundai continues to back the Elantra with an industry-leading 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage.
To keep things interesting, Hyundai began selling a five-door hatchback version for the 2002 model year. Hatchbacks offer 28 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats in use and 37 cubes when they're folded. Cabin accommodations are simple yet comfortable, and all of the controls are easy to find and use. Further, the Hyundai Elantra caters to commuters, providing a smooth ride on the highway and no-fuss handling in the parking lot. Some buyers may find the base GLS too soft in the corners, but if that's the case, the more firmly tuned GT sedan and hatchback are available, though even the GT is a bit on the soft side as well.
The Elantra is not without faults; ABS is buried in expensive option packages, and the car's engine is not as strong or refined as the class leaders. Additionally, the cabin, though comfortable, is becoming rather dated. Adding insult to injury, the Spectra offers all the good things we like about the Elantra, along with more features, for a lower price. The 2006 Hyundai Elantra is not an undesirable car, it's just not the complete package it once was. Until the redesigned Elantra hits showrooms, we suggest you carefully consider the competition before you buy.
Performance & mpg
Every Elantra comes with a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 138 horsepower (132 with SULEV emissions equipment). Drivers have their choice of either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. If you like shifting your own gears, the manual is definitely the way to go, as it makes it easy to keep the engine in its power band. Equipped with the automatic, the Hyundai Elantra delivers ample around-town power but can feel sluggish during highway passing maneuvers, as the transmission waits too long to downshift.
Safety
Side airbags for front occupants are standard on all Elantras, and antilock brakes are optional. In government crash testing, the Hyundai Elantra earned five stars out of five for driver protection in frontal impacts and four stars for the front passenger. In side-impact tests, the Elantra received five stars for front-occupant protection and four stars for rear-occupant protection. The IIHS gave it a "Good" rating for frontal-offset protection, but a "Poor" rating for side impacts.
Driving
The 2006 Hyundai Elantra excels at Point-A-to-B driving where a comfortable ride and light, easy handling are assets. In GT form, the suspension has slightly thicker stabilizer bars and firmer shock tuning, but the ride quality remains smooth and forgiving. There's plenty of body roll around corners with either setup, but the car behaves in such a predictable manner you're never caught off-guard.
Interior
Inside, the Elantra has a dated but simple layout. It's not exciting, but the switchgear is high in quality and all of the controls are right where you expect them to be. GT models have a more upscale flavor with leather wrappings on the seats, steering wheel and shift knob, as well as Volkswagen-inspired red-and-blue gauge illumination -- it's a nice idea, but it clashes with the green backlighting on the center stack. Hatchbacks offer 20 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats in use and 37 cubes when they're folded.
2006 Hyundai Elantra models
The Hyundai Elantra sedan is available in GLS, Limited and GT trim, while the five-door hatchback comes in either GLS or GT. Standard equipment on the GLS includes air conditioning; power windows, mirrors and locks; keyless entry; a center armrest with storage; and a 60/40-split-folding rear seat. In addition to that, the GLS hatchback includes a sport suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. The Limited adds wood grain trim, leather seating, chrome trim and foglights. GT models provide all of the above, plus alloy wheels, cruise control, an instrument panel with red/blue illumination and trip computer, a six-speaker CD audio system and a rear spoiler. Among the factory options are cruise control and a CD player on GLS models, and antilock brakes and a sunroof on all trims.

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners consistently appreciate the 2006 Hyundai Elantra for its reliability and strong value proposition. Many drivers highlight that even after years of use and high mileage, the Elantra continues to run smoothly with minimal issues. The car’s low cost of ownership is particularly notable, as owners frequently mention affordable repairs and maintenance. One of the standout features praised by owners is the impressive fuel efficiency, especially on long highway drives, with some drivers reporting up to 37+ mpg. The interior space is another well-liked aspect, with comfortably accommodating seating and ample cargo room, making it suitable for various needs from commuting to road trips. Despite being an economy car, the Elantra includes a range of desirable features, such as power windows, a quality sound system, and a smooth ride that enhances overall driving comfort. The extensive warranty package has been a reassurance to many, providing a sense of security with the 10-year/100,000-mile coverage. Hyundai’s Elantra also garners accolades for its handling, which is particularly appreciated in urban and highway settings where maneuverability is key. Owners find the Elantra’s design straightforward yet functional, making controls intuitive and easy to use. The vehicle's ability to handle challenging weather conditions, equipped with proper tires, further underscores its quality and utility as a daily driver. Overall, the Elantra's blend of efficiency, reliability, and practical features makes it a favored choice among owners looking for a budget-friendly, dependable car.
Common Issues
The 2006 Hyundai Elantra presents several common issues that concern drivers. One notable complaint is the car’s lackluster acceleration, especially uphill or during highway merging, which can make passing maneuvers challenging. Owners frequently mention problems with the air conditioning system being intermittent, particularly troublesome during hot weather when it fails to engage promptly. The quality of the interior materials is often criticized, with reports of peeling paint on bumpers, cracked dashboard vinyl, and worn-out door handles. Additionally, many drivers find the seats uncomfortable, especially for long trips, citing issues with lower back support. Rusting, particularly in areas exposed to road salt, becomes a concern for those in harsher climates, affecting non-structural body parts like wheel wells. The Elantra’s suspension is described as not particularly robust, contributing to a less than optimal handling experience with noticeable body roll during turns. Audio system complaints also appear often, with users noting poor radio reception and underwhelming sound quality. There's a frustration with the vehicle's brake system, as some experience uneven wear on components, leading to higher than expected maintenance costs. Furthermore, some owners express dissatisfaction with the lack of antilock brakes on many models, a desired feature for added safety. Lastly, the electrical system can be troublesome, with frequent reports of issues related to the dashboard lights and sensors.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
Everyday drivers frequently find the 2006 Hyundai Elantra to be a dependable and economical choice. This car often surprises owners with its longevity, even remaining roadworthy well beyond 100,000 miles with minimal mechanical issues. Its fuel efficiency is a major plus, particularly for those with long commutes or frequent road trips. The spacious interior gets positive mentions, proving comfortable for families or those needing extra cargo space. Although performance isn’t sporty, the Elantra handles daily driving needs adequately despite some quirks in acceleration and ride firmness. Some drivers mention that the lack of modern technology, like advanced infotainment systems, feels dated, but appreciate the straightforward controls. Repairs and replacement parts tend to fall on the affordable side, easing the burden of car ownership costs. Despite its modest build, the Elantra's host of standard features, including power accessories and a decent sound system, are appreciated by those upgrading from more basic vehicles. Safety features such as side airbags are reassuring, though some lament the limited availability of antilock brakes. While some interior materials show wear over time, the vehicle generally maintains a solid functionality that satisfies practical needs. Such experiences reflect the value-conscious mindset typical among Elantra drivers.
Reliability
The 2006 Hyundai Elantra has a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
1 recall foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 09V280000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 91B026
- Manufactured from:
- 2006-10-25 to 2007-04-30
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 3011
- Defect Description:
- HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 3,011 MODEL YEAR 2005-2007 ELANTRA, TUCSON, SONATA, AZERA AND ACCENT VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTIONING STOP LAMP SWITCH MAY CAUSE THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO FAIL TO ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED OR MAY CAUSE THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS RELEASED. A DEFECTIVE STOP LAMP SWITCH MAY ALSO AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE BRAKE-TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK FEATURE SO THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO BE SHIFT OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION. IT MAY ALSO CAUSE THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) MALFUNCTION LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE, AND IT MAY NOT DEACTIVATE THE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
- Defect Consequence:
- ANY OF THESE MALFUNCTIONS COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STOP LAMP SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 2, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI OF PUERTO RICO CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-787-999-4310.
Warranty
5 years / 60,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 10 years / 100,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 7 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
Hyundai Elantra Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(58%)
4(23%)
3(11%)
2(6%)
1(2%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
2006 Elantra GLS still going strong at 214,576
4.75 out of 5 starsbinski72, 01/29/2013
2006 Hyundai Elantra GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
I bought this car new in june of 2006. The only thing I have done to this car is change the oil every 5,000 miles. I have gone through 3 sets of tires and front brakes 3 times. at 120,000 I did a complete tune up and had the trans and radiator flushed. This is my 4th elantra and they heve never let me down. Just make sure you do the basic maintaince and it will last a long time. I do … drive 90% of the time on the highway. With the cruise controll set at 68mph I am still getting 32mpg on the highway. If i set it at 78mph it drops to 28mpg.
A Really Great Car
5 out of 5 starsJULES KIRCHAIN, 03/25/2016
2006 Hyundai Elantra GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
This car was purchased in California and driven to Florida, back to California and back to Florida. Absolutely no trouble. I recommend the Hyundai Elantra very highly. The front seats are not comfortable on long trips however around town they are adequate. This car gets great gas mileage. The only mechanical problem was the original catalytic converter failed at 60,000 miles but it was … covered under warranty and was replaced. Oh, by the way, the 10 year 100,000 mile warranty is simply fantastic. I will never buy another car unless it has the 10/100000 warranty.
116,800 mi, 8 years--never let me down!
4.13 out of 5 starsjasonhk, 09/19/2014
2006 Hyundai Elantra GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
I'm surprised at all the mixed reviews here. I live in PA and bought my Elantra new in '06. roughly 6 months are cold, some snowy. I do 50% highway, 50% city. I do all recommended maintenance and in almost 8 years, changed brake pads 2x, tires 3x, headlights 4x, radiator 1x (102kmi), and an 02 sensor. The car NEVER let me down and repairs have been minimal and reasonable. I'm … considering getting a new Elantra due to greater safety specs, but I'm leaning towards just putting in another new timing belt at 120 and doing the service. I totally see myself getting over 200K. Those who report bad things probably beat the hell out of their car. Just take care of it!
check engine light
2 out of 5 starsmichele, 06/29/2006
2006 Hyundai Elantra GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
I took home my 2006 Elantra the next day after 40 miles the check engine light came on. I took it back to the dealer he said every thing was fine. I got 1/2 mile and the check engine light was on again. I see another review that has the same problem. I am wondering is this a problem. They say I will get a new car tomorrow. The code is cyl 4 missfire when they run a computer check.
2006 Elantra Highlights
Hatchback
GLS
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $14,465 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 26 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $127/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 20.1 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Elantra include:
- Alarm
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalPoor
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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