New 2010 Hyundai Elantra

Your favorite economy car company returns this year with a more fuel efficient fleet, supported by the 2010 Hyundai Elantra and its spacious yet affordable package.

Powering this green-machine is a 138-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which achieves the Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle rating from the EPA, and is mated to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. In green states adhering to California’s stricter emissions, the engine is rated at 132-horsepower and gets the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle rating as well as a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Elantra achieves a fantastic 26 mpg in the city, and 34-35 mpg on the highway. The GLS and SE models reflect four percent gains in city mpg and three percent in highway mpg versus the 2009 models. The new Blue model gets eight percent higher city mpg and six percent higher highway mpg versus the 2009 GLS model. Highway fuel economy is equal to or better than the Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Honda Civic.

The secret to all this mileage success on the Blue model is new smart alternator technology, which reduces unnecessary loading on the engine, as well as lower friction engine components, engine calibration changes and revised transmission gear ratios. Much of this technology makes its way onto the GLS and SE models as well.

New chrome accents inside and out give the Elantra a more upscale appearance. The Comfort Package takes the Elantra to the next level with a 172-watt stereo and a USB port. For your driving pleasure, the SE model features stiffer springs, revised shocks and 16-inch alloy wheels that yield a sporty ride.

This small car sports a robust 112.1 cubic feet of interior room that soundly beats the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, and actually gains the Elantra the EPA classification of a mid-size car. The rear seats fold down so you can load from the trunk and use the full interior length to carry your favorite long items, whether that’s two-by-fours or surfboards.

Safety is keyed by accident-avoidance features including four-wheel disc brakes with antilock and brake-force distribution features. The SE model adds electronic stability control. Six airbags and a sturdy chassis deliver Five-Star front and Four-Star side impact ratings from NHTSA.

Safety, fuel efficiency, and out-of-its-class interior volume combine with a super low price to make the 2010 Hyundai Elantra a smart buy.