If you’ve ever wondered what the Hyundai Elantra really is, here’s the quick answer right up front: it’s a compact sedan known for strong reliability, excellent fuel economy, smart technology, and a surprisingly comfortable driving experience for the price. And in this article, you’ll find every single detail you’ve been searching for. Whether you’re curious about gas mileage, towing capacity, configurations, interior comfort, oil type, or even which model year is the smartest buy, you’ll get all your burning questions answered right here.
Many drivers get stuck comparing models like the 2013, 2017, and 2021 Elantra, and you’ll finally see the differences in real-world performance, costs, and ownership experience. I’ve also checked the most recent used-car prices across the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia, so you can get a real sense of what people are actually paying today, with no confusion and no guessing.
Let’s explore each model year with clear explanations in short, friendly paragraphs.
Table of Contents
The 2013 Hyundai Elantra: The No-Nonsense Commuter
You’re not looking at a 2013 Elantra for thrills. You’re looking at it because your buddy said, “Hey, my cousin had one, and it just wouldn’t die,” and your budget spreadsheet has a very specific, very small number at the top. Good news: your buddy’s probably right.
What’s Under the Hood (The Simple Stuff)
It’s powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder. 148 horsepower. It’s about as exciting as a microwave, but just as reliable. It gets the job done. You’ll be changing about 4 quarts of 5W-20 oil when it’s due. And forget about towing your jet ski, this car’s towing capacity is effectively zero. It’s built for highways and grocery runs, not trailers.
The Real Win: Gas Mileage Your Wallet Will Love
Here’s where this old timer earns its keep. You’re looking at 28 MPG in the city and 38 on the highway. In the real world, that means a tank of gas lasts you all week. In an era of crazy pump prices, that’s not just a feature; it’s a financial relief.
Living With It (The Good & The “It’s Fine”)
Slide inside. The interior isn’t going to impress a date. The plastics are hard, the design is basic, but everything is logically where it should be. The seats hold up surprisingly well, and the trunk (14.8 cubic feet) fits a decent Costco run. It’s transportation, pure and simple. It’s the automotive equivalent of a sturdy pair of work boots, not pretty, but they get you through the day.
The Bottom Line (Who This Car Is For)
- Buy it if: Your top priority is “cheap to buy, cheap to run.” You’re a first-time buyer, a student, or you need a bulletproof second car. You value simplicity over style.
- Walk away if: You crave modern tech like Apple CarPlay, need a super quiet cabin, or want advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking. This car is a time capsule to 2013.
Think you need a bit more polish? Maybe some tech that wasn’t designed in the flip-phone era? Let’s talk about the crowd favorite: the 2017.
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra: The “Why Can’t All Cars Be Like This?” Model
If the 2013 is a reliable flip phone, the 2017 is the first smartphone that actually worked perfectly. This is the model that made people stop saying, “It’s good… for a Hyundai.” It’s just good, period. It’s the sweet spot for a reason.
Finally, Some Choices Under the Hood
This is where the Elantra grew up. The base engine is a smoother, quieter 2.0-liter (147 hp). But the fun starts with the options.
- Want to save every possible dollar on gas? Find an “Eco” trim with its peppy 1.4-liter turbo.
- Want actually to enjoy your commute? Hunt down an “Elantra Sport” with its 201-horsepower 1.6-liter turbo. It’s a genuinely fun car to drive.
Maintenance is still straightforward: about 4.4 quarts of 5W-20 synthetic oil for the base engine. And no, towing capacity still isn’t a thing. Don’t ask it to.
Gas Mileage: Efficient, or Extremely Efficient
- Base 2.0L: A solid 29 city / 38 highway MPG.
- Eco 1.4L Turbo: An impressive 32 city / 40 highway MPG.
- Sport 1.6L Turbo: You pay for the fun here—expect mid-to-high 20s.
The Interior That Feels Like You Moved Up a Class
Open the door. Notice how much quieter it is? The materials are softer to the touch. And crucially, available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mean you’re not stuck with a terrible factory navigation system. It connects to your modern life. The ride is more composed, less jittery. It feels like a more expensive car.
The Bottom Line (Who This Car Is For)
- Buy it if: You want a used car that doesn’t feel used. You want modern connectivity, a comfortable ride, and proven reliability without the depreciation hit of a new car. You’re a savvy shopper.
- Walk away if: You absolutely must have a hybrid’s fuel economy or you need the very latest safety tech suite. Also, if you find a Sport model, remember it drinks more fuel.
But what if you do want that hybrid efficiency? What if you want a car that looks like it drove out of an auto show? Buckle up for the 2021 Elantra.
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra: The “Wait, That’s a Hyundai?” Redesign
The 2021 Elantra is a statement. It’s Hyundai throwing down the gauntlet. The design is sharp, angular, and controversial in the best way. People will look at it. More importantly, they introduced a hybrid that sips gas like it’s going out of style.
Two Powertrains, Two Philosophies
- The Smart Gas Engine: The 2.0-liter is now paired with an “IVT” transmission that’s smoother than old-school CVTs. It’s tuned for one thing: efficiency.
- The Hybrid Star: This is the one. A 1.6-liter engine paired with an electric motor. It’s not just about saving gas; it’s about a serene, silent take-off from stoplights that never gets old.
Stick with 0W-20 synthetic oil for the gas model. And for the hundredth time, you are not towing with this sedan.
Gas Mileage That Feels Like a Superpower
- Gas Model: 33 MPG city / 43 MPG highway. A legit improvement.
- Hybrid Model: Hold on to your hat. 53 MPG city / 56 MPG highway. I’ve seen these show over 600 miles on a single tank. It’s borderline magical.
Stepping Into the Future
The cabin is a revelation. It’s wide, airy, and dominated by sleek screens that look like they belong in an Audi. The materials are a huge leap forward. It’s packed with standard safety tech that watches the road with you. This is a car that makes you feel like you bought something special, not just sensible.
The Bottom Line (Who This Car Is For)
- Buy it if: You prioritize cutting-edge tech and jaw-dropping fuel economy above all else. You want a car that looks and feels new, and you’re willing to pay a premium for it.
- Walk away if: Your budget is tight. The hybrid system, while reliable under warranty, adds long-term complexity. The radical styling might not be to your taste.
Let’s Talk Real Money: What You’ll Actually Pay
Forget generic “used car” prices. Here’s what decent, clean examples are actually listed for right now, based on recent market checks. Remember, a private seller might be cheaper, a dealership will be higher.
- In the USA:
- 2013: $6,000 – $9,500
- 2017: $12,000 – $17,000
- 2021: $18,500 – $25,000
- In Canada:
- 2013: CAD 8,000 – 12,000
- 2017: CAD 14,000 – 20,000
- 2021: CAD 23,000 – 30,000
- In the UK: (For similar i30 sedans)
- 2013: £5,000 – 7,500
- 2017: £10,000 – 15,000
- 2021: £17,000 – 23,000
- In Australia:
- 2013: AUD 9,000 – 14,000
- 2017: AUD 16,000 – 24,000
- 2021: AUD 25,000 – 34,000
Pro Tip: Whatever you look at, spend $150 on a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic. It’s the best money you’ll ever spend on a used car.
Side-by-Side: 2013 vs. 2017 vs. 2021 Hyundai Elantra At a Glance
| Feature | 2013 Hyundai Elantra | 2017 Hyundai Elantra | 2021 Hyundai Elantra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Identity | The Budget Champion. Simple, affordable, proven reliability. | The Sweet Spot. Balanced, modernized, with great tech/value. | The Game Changer. Bold design, hybrid option, cutting-edge tech. |
| Engines & Key Specs | 1.8L I4 (148 hp) • 6-spd Auto/Manual | Choice: 2.0L I4 (147 hp) • Eco: 1.4L Turbo (128 hp) • Sport: 1.6L Turbo (201 hp) | Gas: 2.0L I4 (147 hp) w/ IVT • Hybrid: 1.6L Hybrid (139 hp combined) |
| Gas Mileage (EPA Est.) | 28 city / 38 hwy / 32 comb | 2.0L: 29 city / 38 hwy / 33 comb Eco: 32 city / 40 hwy / 35 comb Sport: Lower, performance-focused | Gas: 33 city / 43 hwy / 37 comb Hybrid: 53 city / 56 hwy / 54 comb |
| Notable Advantages | • Extremely low purchase price • Cheap & easy maintenance • Durable, simple mechanics | • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto standard • Multiple engine/trim choices • Refined ride & quiet cabin | • Revolutionary interior tech & design • Class-leading hybrid fuel economy • Comprehensive standard safety suite |
| Key Considerations | • Outdated tech & materials • No advanced safety features • Shows its age in driving dynamics | • Turbo engines add complexity • Still no rated towing capacity • Sport trim sacrifices fuel economy | • Highest used purchase price • Hybrid system = long-term complexity • Bold styling may not age for everyone |
| Target Buyer | The first-time buyer or commuter who needs the most reliable, low-cost transport possible. | The savvy shopper who wants modern infotainment, good efficiency, and a balanced drive without a new-car price. | The tech-forward driver who prioritizes stunning efficiency, head-turning style, and a truly contemporary cabin. |
| Approx. Used Price Range (USD) | $6,000 – $10,000 | $12,000 – $18,000 | $18,000 – $25,000+ |
How to Use This Table: Your priority is your guide. Draw a line from your top need to the column that best fits it.
Are you unwilling to compromise on the latest tech and hybrid efficiency? The 2021 is your next car.
Is your absolute top priority budget? The 2013 column is calling.
Do you need the best blend of modern features and value? The 2017 is your standout.
Quick Answers to the Questions You’re Actually Asking
“Is the 2013 Hyundai Elantra a reliable car?”
Yes. It’s famously durable. Just check for a decent service history. If it were maintained, it would likely keep going.
“What engine is in the 2017 Hyundai Elantra?”
Most have a 2.0-liter. But the fun ones are the 1.4-liter turbo in the Eco and the 1.6-liter turbo in the Sport.
“Is the 2021 Elantra expensive to repair?”
Routine stuff? No. But if something goes wrong with the hybrid battery or fancy tech, yes, it’ll cost more than fixing a 2013’s simple engine.“Is Hyundai as reliable as Toyota now?”
They’re incredibly close. Hyundai’s 10-year powertrain warranty is legendary for a reason. For long-term ownership, Toyota has a slight edge, but for value and features, Hyundai wins.
“What engine is in the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?”
The standard is a 2.0-liter. The fuel-sipping champion is the 1.6-liter hybrid.
“What year Elantra should I avoid?”
There’s no single “bad” year. Just be extra careful with early 2010s models (pre-2013) as they’re older and may have more wear. A 2017 or later is generally a safer bet.
Last word
The Hyundai Elantra is a very respectable compact sedan, whether you’re on a tight budget and eyeing a 2013, or you prefer modern design and maximum efficiency with a 2021. If you’re after affordability and simplicity, the 2013 model offers a low-cost entry point. If you want balance and good value for money, 2017 strikes a nice compromise. And if fuel economy, comfort, and up-to-date features matter most, the 2021 (especially hybrid) stands out.
In short: the “best” Elantra depends on what you need (budget / fuel economy / comfort / longevity). If I were you and buying now — for a mix of reliability + fuel savings + decent future resale — I’d lean toward 2017 or 2021 hybrid.
If you like, I can also pull up a comparison chart for 5–6 model years (e.g. 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021) with engine/mpg/maintenance cost/prosmpg/maintenance/cons — to help you visually compare and decide.
Do you want me to build that for you now?