Just test drove an Elantra, you should too!

[WTF]

Well, the GF is obsessed with the new 2011 Elantras so I figured why not go test one out! The selection was practically non existent since they only has about 4 and they were either dark blue or silver. Even so, they still looked good and we decided to test one out. Keep in mind, we test drove a Fiesta about a week prior to this...

I honestly could not believe the quality of the 2011 Elantra, it seemed worlds better then what I had imagined. Everything felt solid, even the closing of the door felt like an expensive German built vehicle. Even though I'm a huge Ford fan (past 4 cars have been Fords) I honestly believe this was much more of a car then the new 2011 Fiesta we test drove earlier. I must mention that the Elantra is considered a Compact car which is a tad larger then the category the Fiesta fits into. With that, its also a bit more costlier, not by much though.

Anyways, if you guys are on the fence about what new car to buy, you really shouldn't pass up the new Elantra. At least take one for a test drive. But lastly, I'd also like to state I have by no means picked out a new vehicle since there are still a couple coming out this spring which I'd like to check out as well. I look forward to the 2012 Focus, 2012 Accent, and 2012 Sonic. But as of now my money would be on the new 2011 Elantra.

[Jazzdog]

The Elantra is a C class car, the direct comparator would be the new Focus, not the Fiesta

[WTF]

I understand and I did state that in my OP. But since the prices are practically the same I can't imagine many people would rule it out since it is slightly larger.

[BondiBlue]

Originally Posted by WTF

I understand and I did state that in my OP. But since the prices are practically the same I can't imagine many people would rule it out since it is slightly larger.

Same goes with the Focus though. You can get into a base '12 Focus for what? A little over $16k or so? People on here have spent $18-19k on Fiestas.

I probably would have considered looking at Hyundai or Kia, at least to give them a shot, but I don't have a dealer for either in this town. Not having to go waaay out of my way for service is a big motivator.

[Faulkster]

Kia ewwwwwwww would never ever ever buy a kia

[WTF]

Originally Posted by Faulkster

Kia ewwwwwwww would never ever ever buy a kia

A year ago I would have been saying the same thing, but finally they realized people buy cars based on appearance and quality which is what they have started to offer. Plus a 10yr warranty is quite attractive.

[BondiBlue]

Yep, warranty is nice. The Forte and Optima are pretty decent looking vehicles. Especially when compared to what Kia used to offer. Same to be said with Hyundai.

[timezones]

Yeah the new Optima is really sharp. $24k for a classy car. Not bad at all.

I almost bought an Elantra, but just couldn't pass on all the extras that came with the Fiesta (heated seats, Sync, etc) for $2k less. Plus when my insurance company told me my insurance would actually go DOWN....it was a no brainer.

Anyone that buys a new Elantra will be happy with their purchase though. Affordable + good looking car that gets 40mpg......what's not to like.

[Audrey]

People should definitely shop around. I love the Fiesta, but even I know it's not the right car for everyone! The Elantra is probably pretty nice - isn't Jeff Bridges doing the voiceover for their ads now? Pretty epic imo (Jeff Bridges that is).

[billnchristy]

My problem with Hyundai is their pricing structure. Don't tell me a car starts at 13 when the dealer has 17-25k cars.

This is what I loved about the 2 and subsequently, and ultimately, the Fiesta...price was VERY close to what the website says.