2022 Hyundai Elantra

Pros: Comfortable ride; smooth powertrain and excellent fuel economy of Hybrid models; extensive list of available safety and tech features; true high-performance character of Elantra N model

Cons: Polarizing styling; performance of the base engine is just adequate; so-so rear visibility

CG Says: The 2022 Hyundai Elantra compact-sedan lineup adds a high-performance Elantra N model. The rest of the line continues unchanged in the wake of the Elantra’s complete redesign for 2021. A four-door sedan is the Elantra’s lone body style; the sedan’s hatchback sibling, the Elantra GT, was discontinued after the 2020 model year.

The Elantra offers a choice of four powertrains. The base engine is a 147-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder paired with a CVT automatic transmission. The Elantra Hybrid’s powertrain combines a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total of 139 horsepower; it’s paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automated-manual transmission. (The economically equipped Elantra Hybrid Blue delivers an EPA-estimated 54 miles per gallon in combined city/highway driving, while the Elantra Hybrid Limited gets 50 mpg.) The sporty Elantra N Line gets a sport suspension and is powered by a 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The new-for-2022 high-performance Elantra N model has a 276-hp 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder, track-tuned chassis, unique interior/exterior trim, and a standard 6-speed manual transmission. An 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is optional.

Standard safety features on all Elantras include forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, lane following assist, driver-attention monitor, high-beam assist, and safe exit warning. Available tech features include wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity; Hyundai Digital Key (a smartphone app that allows you to lock/unlock and drive the car without the physical key fob); and SoundHound Voice Recognition, a system that uses voice prompts for such traditionally manual tasks as rolling down windows, opening the trunk, or turning on seat heaters.

Despite its radical looks, the Hyundai Elantra is a pleasant, practical everyday car that comes in a broad variety of likeable flavors, from super-economical to racetrack-ready. The aggressively tuned Elantra N is more high-strung and has a notably stiffer ride, but even it is reasonably comfortable in daily commuting, considering the performance on tap.