The folks at Hyundai have a few new things up their sleeve in 2016 and for the Hyundai Elantra GT that includes not only new front end styling, but a new tech package as well. Riding high in the hatchback market, the 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT is a solid choice and the warranty on this one can’t be beat. Competition includes the Mazda 3, Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and the Kia Forte and each have their own highs and lows in this compact car class.
The original Elantra sedan was first introduced in 2011, but the Elantra GT stands more in comparison to the European market’s i30 hatchback with some higher notes than the Elantra sedan gives fans of that particular style.
As for the 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT, it’s a four-door hatchback that comes in only one trim level with features including 16-inch wheels, fog lights, heated front seats and mirrors, all power accessories as well a height-adjustable driver seat, 60/40-split folding rear seats and Bluetooth phone and audio connect with satellite radio, a USB/iPod input and an audio jack.
There are two option packages, either the Style or the Tech with the Style package adding 17-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, side mirrors with turn signals, a keyless entry and ignition, power driver seat and a leather upholstery steering wheel including a shift-knob cover. You will also get the Blue Link on this option package that adds remote unlocking with a smartphone app and additional safety features.
For the Tech package, coming only with the automatic-transmission and the Style package option, there is the seven-inch touchscreen navigation with an even more advanced Blue Link that allows for a remote start feature. The navigation feature with the Tech package has what is called “Siri Eyes Free,” utilizing voice control for Apple as well as Pandora Internet radio and a back-up camera. There is also the addition of a dual-zone climate control, air-conditioned front seats and a panoramic sunroof.
Under the hood, the Hyundai Elantra GT has front-wheel-drive and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 173 horsepower and 154 pound feet of torque. While a six-speed manual is standard, you can also get this vehicle in an automatic.
Safety features on the 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side, full-length side curtain and driver knee airbags and with the additional Tech package you can add the rearview camera as well as the Hyundai Blue Link offering theft recovery and geo-fencing for parents to utilize for teenagers who drive the vehicle.
Inside the Elantra GT, the interior is roomy and well built and the knobs and buttons easy to use and manipulate. With the navigation system, it is more than simple and the audio system is also part of the touchscreen, the entire package is intuitive and stress free.
For hauling, you get 23-cubic-feet when the back rear seats are up and when folded down there is a roomy 51-cubic-feet and rear seats can easily accommodate adults both in leg and head room.
Behind the wheel when driving this Hyundai, it’s a strong engine and even more impressive with the sport-tuned suspension. You can also expect a quiet ride with a healthy suspension that allows for rounding curves and bends and taking to the highway with the ease and comfort that has come to be expected from the Hyundai brand overall.
Should You Need to Know: On the 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT expect an impressive warranty package and when opting for one of the packages the Blue Link system easily integrates Google destination as well as an Android smartwatch feature.
Miles Per Gallon: The 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT I drove got 24 miles to the gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
Cost: The 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT I drove came in with a price tag of $26,675.
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