It is what it is. Such a statement would seem to write off the Hyundai Elantra, which isn’t fair. We’re not trying to be daft. For a smaller mid-size sedan that offers a pleasant exterior and healthy list of standard items, the Elantra does well in comparison with its competitors.

It just doesn’t do anything more. For a lot of drivers that’s more than enough. In the just-better-than-base trim, or SLX as Hyundai sells it, the Elantra offers a well-sorted entry-level style sedan. You can’t fault it much because to do so means you’re willing to write a much larger cheque.

A brief statement about the exterior styling. The Elantra used to look much more striking than others in its class before the 2006 redesign, but like other makers Hyundai has decided to keep all of its products among the same general design language. The result is a somewhat staid sedan that older buyers will term elegant and younger motorists yawn-inducing. Your mileage will vary.

Safety is also gotten taken care of with ease on the SLX trim line, with side airbags both front and rear and regular airbags for both occupants. In fact, the SLX is probably the best of the trims because while it doesn’t have the interior bits of more expensive Elantras, it also doesn’t look as shopworn as they do. It’s almost like the Elite and Elite S are trying too hard to be Japanese, and look the worse for the effort.
When we talked about older drivers, we really think that affordably-minded owners who are looking for a small sedan will like the Elantra. The suspension that can seem soft and floaty for younger drivers seems to manage rough roads well and provides a comfortable fit for those not looking to tear about.
Even so, the engine is powerful enough for a four-cylinder, perhaps in part because it’s a bit larger than those found in sub-compacts. The automatic transmission that’s mated to it allows drivers to find the right speed to effectively overtake vehicles as needed, and gives nary a whine as it powers through the revs.

The petrol-sipping is decent although you’d be a bit hard-pressed to reach Hyundai’s recorded 7.8L/100km. Shoot for about 8 and you’ll find yourself pleasantly surprised, as you will be by the fact that there’s no trip computer. You may use the last petrol station receipt as scratch paper to jot down figures if you have need for them.

While you’re doing that, your passengers aren’t likely to give you much bother since the cabin is fairly spacious given the overall size of the Elantra. Again, you’re getting a bit of a bargain when you consider that the asking price is $25,000 and under for the SLX.

A few quibbles: there is no ESP, and the crash test ratings aren’t stellar. You could find more spectacular offerings from Ford, Mazda and Honda. But if you’ve read this far, then you’ve decided that you want a people mover that you can park just about anywhere, and one that provides a bit more comfort than the car your younger brother first drove. The Hyundai Elantra hits every mark there.

Specifications:
Engine: 1975cc four-cylinder petrol
Power: 105kW
Torque: 186Nm
Top speed: N/A
Safety: ABS, Dual Front, Side and Curtain Airbags (ESP optional).
0-100km/h: N/A
ANCAP rating: 3 Stars
Turning circle: 10.3 metres
Fuel tank: 53 litres
Fuel consumption : 7.8 litres / 100km (combined)
Fuel type: Unleaded (regular)
Towing Capacity: 1,200kg (braked)