2021 Hyundai Elantra

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Rating7.1

Ranked #6 in 

Compact Sedan
Write Review
$19,650 - $25,450
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on January 31, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Very smooth and composed ride

Plenty of hard plastics all through the cabin

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is completely redesigned

Spacious cabin

Slow shifting CVT

New hybrid and performance variants

A pool of standard features

Impressive fuel economy

Specs & Features

$19,650

price

147 hp @ 6200 rpm

horsepower

132 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm

torque

1-Speed CVT w/od

transmission

2.0L 4cyl FWD 1CVT

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The new Hyundai Elantra combines premium style with top safety ratings in one smart package. The stunning design inside and out will turn heads while the available technology keeps you connected to your world and the efficient engine helps you go further on less. The 2021 iteration offers multiple options that would be perfect for commuting, a weekend away, or even traveling across the country. 

Buying Advice

Despite the SE's heavy-duty tech stack and an abundance of driver assistance features, we recommend the SEL trim as it's not all that much more expensive and offers some extras you might value and the option of adding even more features.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is now packed with smart new technologies and features, while still offering budget-friendly pricing. It features an aggressive new look, a redesigned interior, and intuitive available tech. The Elantra features simplified engineering, a more spacious interior, and more cargo room to provide you with a smoother ride in all conditions. It’s all set to take on other luminaries like the Kia Forte, Honda Civic, and Mazda 3

Features
9.9/10

The Hyundai Elantra is available in four models with new high-performance N Line and Hybrid options. The base model is offered in three trim levels; SE, SEL, and Limited. All of these three rims sport similar powertrains and share similar mechanicals. All these variants come equipped with a wide range of standard features like Remote Keyless entry, Height-adjustable driver’s seat, Cloth upholstery and LED DRLs to name a few.

On the connectivity and infotainment front, it comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, Four-speaker audio system, Apple CraPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The SEL trim adds up features like the Push-button start, Six-speaker sound system, and Dual-zone climate control. While the top-tier Limited trim qualifies for a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, leather-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Ambient interior lighting. Safety features like Lane keep assist, Rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist and driver attention warning are standard across the entire lineup. 

Trims

SE

SEL

Limited

MSRP (Manual)

$31,670

$34,960

$38,270

Key Features

Remote Keyless entry

Adds all the features of SE trim

Adds all the features of SEL trim

 

Cloth upholstery

Push-button start

10.25-inch Touchscreen

 

Manually adjustable front seats

16-inch alloy wheels

Navigation system

 

8-inch touch screen

Satellite radio

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

 

Four-speaker sound system

Six-speaker sound system

Leather upholstery

 

LED DRLs

Dual-zone climate control

Ambient interior lighting

 

15-inch alloy wheels

Blind-spot monitoring

Rear automatic braking

 

Height-adjustable driver’s seat

   
 

Two USB ports

   

Which trim should you buy? 

Despite the SE's heavy-duty tech stack and an abundance of driver assistance features, we recommend the SEL trim as it's not all that much more expensive and offers some extras you might value and the option of adding even more features.

Fuel Economy
6.0/10

Compared to the 2020 Elantra, the new Elantra still returns the same mpg figures as the 2.0-liter Inline-4 engine. In the city, the 2021 Hyundai Elantra returns about 31 miles per gallon, with the highway number coming in at about 41 and 35 mpg on a combined note. That's quite impressive and fits within this segment.

Models

2021 Hyundai Elantra

2021 Kia Forte

2021 Honda Civic

2021 Mazda 3

MPG (City)

31

27

33

27

MPG (Highway)

41

35

43

36

MPG (Combined)

35

30

37

30

Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallons)

14.0

14.0

12.4

12.7

Range (City/Highway/Combined)

434/574/490

378/490/420

409/533/459

343/457/381

Out of the contenders, the Honda Civic appears to offer the best EPA figures with 37 mpg combined. Despite not driving as efficiently as the Civic or Elantra, the Kia Forte and Mazda 3 still return an impressive 30 mpg in the combined scenario. The Elantra provides the largest range among the competition thanks to its impressive mileage figures and large fuel tank. 

Interior
5.0/10

In terms of both exterior styling and the striking new interior, the Hyundai Elantra 2021 is a major leap forward. Hyundai is known for its quality interiors, and this one was no exception. You will have a difficult time finding any flaws with the vehicle. Dimensionally, the new Elantra is larger than the model from last year, so it benefits from good interior space. This vehicle offers space for five adults with plenty of legroom for even the tallest of individuals, as its rear legroom is also increased by more than two inches. 

On the design front, the Elantra did a commendable job with a clean and practical design approach. The front seats, which feature electric adjustment and a curved back design, are extremely comfortable and keep you in place throughout your drive. All the essential features like dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats are available. The Hyundai Elantra is generally a good car for carrying cargo, and the 2021 model has 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, although some of its rivals give it a little more space than this. 

Models

2021 Hyundai Elantra

2021 Kia Forte

2021 Honda Civic

2021 Mazda 3

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

40.6/56.5/42.3

38.8/56.1/42.2

39.3/57.0/42.3

38.0/55.7/42.3

Rear (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

37.3/55.6/38.0

37.5/55.3/35.7

37.1/55.0/37.4

37.2/53.5/35.1

Cargo Volume (cubic feet)

14.2

15.3

15.1

13.2

The Hyundai Elantra, by contrast, seems to be a clear winner with ample room to accommodate up to five passengers. The Honda Civic offers a similar amount of space as the Elantra, but a much larger capacity for luggage. On the other hand, the Kia Forte has the biggest cargo space with 15.3 cubic feet. Standard interior features of the 2021 Hyundai Elantra include:

  • Keyless entry and push-button start
  • Cloth upholstery
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Height-adjustable driver’s seat
  • Available leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Available heated front seats
  • Available leather-trimmed seats

How intuitive is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra’s Infotainment System?

In terms of simplicity and ease of use, the infotainment system of the Hyundai Elantra is in a class of its own. Besides the large 8-inch screen that comes standard, you can upgrade to a larger 10.25-inch screen as well. The same applies to the sound system, as there are four speakers installed as standard, which can be upgraded to eight speakers with Bose Premium Sound. Additionally, other connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth were supported.

All the standard Infotainment features are listed below:

  • 8-inch Touchscreen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  • Four-speaker sound system
  • HD Radio
  • Two USB ports
  • Voice Recognition
  • Available 10.25-inch touchscreen
  • Available 8-speaker Bose premium audio system
  • Available wireless charging

Exterior
7.0/10

Among all the changes made to the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, the shape has the most implications. A diamond-pattern grille and complex creases at the waist accentuate the vehicle's origami-like profile, and stick-style taillights complete the look. A triangular symmetry seems to dominate the design of the doors of the vehicle, as it exhibits very sharp cuts and creases. 

At the front of the car, we have a front fascia with aggressive styling and LED headlights on both ends. Wheels measuring 15 inches are standard, and larger wheels measuring 16 inches are available as an option. As well-chiseled as this is, it can withstand virtually any amount of aerodynamic drag. We also have parking sensors and LED taillights on the rear. 

Models

2021 Hyundai Elantra

2021 Kia Forte

2021 Honda Civic

2021 Mazda 3

Curb Weight (lbs)

2,725 lbs

2,707 lbs

2,771 lbs

2,899 lbs

Length (inches)

184.1

182.7

182.3

180.3

Width (inches)

71.9

70.9

70.8

70.7

Height (inches)

55.7

56.5

55.7

57.3

Ground Clearance (inches)

5.3

5.3

6.3

6.1

Wheelbase (inches)

107.1

106.3

106.3

107.3

The Mazda 3 will likely be a close competitor to the Elantra in 2021 on the basis of styling and looks. Moreover, the Mazda 3 has the longest wheelbase in its segment and the heaviest sedan. The Elantra, on the other hand, offers the best balance of the bunch. Some standout exterior features of Hyundai Elantra include:

  • LED Headlights and Taillights
  • 15/16/17-inch alloy wheels
  • Chrome front grille
  • LED DRLs
  • Available sunroof
  • Rearview camera
  • Heated side mirrors
  • Rear parking sensors

Safety
7.0/10

Neither of the testing agencies has tested the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, while the outgoing model scored an impressive four stars for its overall safety rating. Regardless of Hyundai's price or segment, all Hyundai models come with an extensive list of safety features that are getting more advanced each year. Several active and passive safety features are included in the Hyundai Elantra 2021. In addition, some of the features in the vehicle include airbags in the front, side, and rear roof-mounted positions, antilock brake systems (ABS), LATCH anchors, and pretensioners. Standard and available safety features include:

  • Lane keep assist
  • Lane follow assist
  • Driver attention warning
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Rearview camera
  • Forward collision warning
  • The automatic emergency braking system
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Blind-spot monitoring system
  • High-beam assist
  • Safe exit warning
  • Available Adaptive cruise control
  • Available Cyclist detection
  • Available Rear parking sensors
  • Available Collision avoidance assist
  • Available Highway driving assist

Competition
7.0/10

2021 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 Mazda 3

With options like turbo power and all-wheel drive, the Mazda3 2021 is an excellent choice for buyers looking for a sedan. The Mazda3's fun-to-drive character is one of its most attractive features. Though there is only one body style for the Hyundai Elantra 2021, this compact sedan comes with striking styling than that of Mazda 3. On the comfort and convenience note, the Elantra edges out Mazda 3 in every aspect. 

2021 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 Honda Civic

In comparison to the Elantra, the Civic offers a better level of all-around performance. Honda's Civic is easily one of the best-handling compact car models. It is as responsive as it is exciting to drive. In addition, the Civic has an engine lineup with stronger engines, including one with a maximum power of 306 horsepower. In addition, the Honda offers an upscale interior as compared to the Hyundai. But the styling and looks clearly ups the game for the Elantra and it even offers a balanced space and rides quality than that of Civic. 

2021 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 Kia Forte

A great many similarities exist between the Kia Forte and its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Elantra. Their featured lists are extensive, their gas mileage is decent, and their infotainment systems are user-friendly. However, the Elantra is a bit more comfortable to drive, even if both vehicles could benefit from more steering feedback. Forte cabin materials are superior to Hyundai's and the car has a little more storage space in the trunk, despite the new infotainment system being available.

Final Verdict
8.2/10

The Hyundai Elantra has been a volume seller for Hyundai and is aimed at leading segment sales. Over the years, it has been a reliable vehicle and has satisfied many buyers. The Hyundai Elantra has been redesigned for 2021. This new Elantra is more spacious and modern than ever, boasting a refined interior and a stronger engine. With its great handling and decent power for daily commuting, it is undeniably a great car to own in 2021. 

Trims

    SE
    $19,650 onwards
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Premium cloth Seat trim
    • Remote keyless entry
    SEL
    $20,900 onwards
    • Dual zone automatic air conditioning
    • Siriusxm AM/FM/HD/Satellite, seek-scan Radio
    N Line
    $24,100 onwards
    • Engine: 1.6L 4cyl FWD 7AM
    • Horsepower: 201 hp @ 6000 rpm hp
    • Torque: 195 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 7.2 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 31 mpg
    Limited
    $25,450 onwards
    • Leather Seat trim
    • Navigation system
    • Parking Distance Warning

Compare to similar cars

Price

$19,650- $25,450

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.14

Horsepower

201 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque

195 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$20,025- $28,310

Gasoline

6.92

139 hp @ 6100 rpm

126 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm

5

Read Review

$21,050- $29,200

Gasoline

7.23

158 hp @ 6500 rpm

138 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm

5

Read Review

$24,770- $36,700

Gasoline

8.14

192 hp @ 5500 rpm

192 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$19,510- $21,850

Gasoline

6.53

149 hp @ 6400 rpm

146 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

5

Read Review

$18,995- $31,545

Gasoline

6.45

147 hp @ 5000 rpm

184 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm

5

Read Review

$20,650- $33,900

Gasoline

7.74

155 hp @ 6000 rpm

150 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$18,795- $26,395

Gasoline

8.21

152 hp @ 6000 rpm

145 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$17,890- $23,390

Gasoline

6.88

147 hp @ 6200 rpm

132 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm

5

Read Review

$25,950- $31,850

Gasoline

5.75

201 hp @ 6800 rpm

180 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm

5

Read Review

2021 Hyundai Elantra vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    9.1 sec--
    7.2 sec15.5 sec124 mph
    7.7 sec-127 mph
    7.8 sec15.5 sec110 mph
    7.9 sec16.2 sec123 mph
    8.9 sec17.4 sec112 mph

    2021 Hyundai Elantra vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      33 mpg43 mpg37 mpg12.4 gal.409.2/533.2 mi.
      30 mpg41 mpg34 mpg13.5 gal.405/553.5 mi.
      30 mpg38 mpg33 mpg13.2 gal.396/501.6 mi.
      30 mpg38 mpg33 mpg14.8 gal.444/562.4 mi.
      29 mpg39 mpg33 mpg12.4 gal.359.6/483.6 mi.
      2021 Mazda 3

      Ranked #4

      28 mpg36 mpg31 mpg13.2 gal.369.6/475.2 mi.

      2021 Hyundai Elantra vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        181.9 in.70.9 in.55.7 in.5.3 in.107.1 in.
        196.1 in.73.3 in.57.1 in.6.7 in.111.4 in.
        185.1 in.70.8 in.57.6 in.5.6 in.105.7 in.
        2021 Mazda 3

        Ranked #3

        183.5 in.70.7 in.56.9 in.5.5 in.107.3 in.
        182.7 in.71.5 in.56.9 in.4.8 in.106.8 in.
        182.7 in.70 in.57.3 in.5.1 in.105.1 in.

        2021 Hyundai Elantra vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          14.2 cu.ft.114 cu.ft.48.9 cu.ft.
          13.1 cu.ft.88.6 cu.ft.176 cu.ft.
          16.7 cu.ft.105.6 cu.ft.134.3 cu.ft.
          15.3 cu.ft.96 cu.ft.108.8 cu.ft.
          12.4 cu.ft.89.3 cu.ft.13.5 cu.ft.
          14.3 cu.ft.96 cu.ft.-

          2021 Hyundai Elantra vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            SourceCompare
            48.9 cu.ft.14.2 cu.ft.48.9 cu.ft.
            2021 Mazda 3

            Ranked #2

            -13.2 cu.ft.-
            -14.3 cu.ft.-
            -12.3 cu.ft.-
            -14.1 cu.ft.-
            176 cu.ft.13.1 cu.ft.176 cu.ft.

            2021 Hyundai Elantra vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              1080 lbs.2725 lbs.
              1149 lbs.3150 lbs.
              906 lbs.3095 lbs.
              921 lbs.3036 lbs.
              825 lbs.2910 lbs.
              1252 lbs.2976 lbs.

              2021 Hyundai Elantra Sedan Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              6

              Recalls

              2

              Investigations

              138

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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              Horsepower : 201 hp @ 3600 rpm

              MPG Combined : 120 mpg

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              #3

              2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Sedan

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              Horsepower : 191 hp @ 6100 rpm

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              Horsepower : 191 hp @ 6100 rpm

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              Horsepower : 161 hp @ 6200 rpm

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              2021 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell Electric

              Horsepower : 161 hp

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              #8

              2021 Hyundai Elantra

              Horsepower : 147 hp @ 6200 rpm

              MPG Combined : 37 mpg

              0-60 : 9.1 sec

              #9

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              Horsepower : 147 hp @ 6200 rpm

              MPG Combined : 30 mpg

              0-60 : 9.4 sec

              #10

              2021 Hyundai Elantra User Reviews

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              POPULAR TAGS

              KZ

              KAMI ZOLLER

              2021 Hyundai Elantra

              SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: August 11, 2024

              IT'S MY THIRD ELANTRA, SO GREAT CAR

              Pros - ["LOW MAINTENANCE", "GREAT ON GAS", "VERY STYLISH"]

              Cons - ["HYUNDAI BLUELINK SHOULD NEVER EXPIRE AND HAVE TO BE PAID FOR TO RENEW", "0000000000000", "0000000000000"]

              I FEEL THAT HYUNDAI HAS COME A LONG WAY IN SAFETY AND STYLE. THEIR LINE OF VEHICLES HAVE IMPROVED TREMEMDOUSLY IN EVERY ASPECT POSSIBLE. THERE ARE A COUPLE SAFETY FEATURES THAT KIA OFFERS THAT WOULD BE WONDERFUL IN THE HYUNDAI. FOR EXAMPLE, THE MUCH LARGER SCREEN; WHEN YOU PUT ON YOUR TURN SIGNAL, THE LANE YOU ARE MOVING INTO SHOWS UP ON THE SCREEN.

              Not Rated
              Features
              Not Rated
              Interior
              Not Rated
              Design
              Not Rated
              Safety
              Not Rated
              Reliability
              Not Rated
              Deal Value
              Not Rated
              Dealer Review

              AM

              Alireza Mosallaie

              2021 Hyundai Elantra

              SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: July 1, 2024

              2021 Hyundai Elantra SE

              Pros - ["GPS and Maps", "Radio and Satellite"]

              Cons - ["Safety features not working", "Backup cam spazzing out"]

              Lame Car and I don't like it and I rather have an electric car. Little sedan just not cutting it for me and I am upset that I cannot afford the car of my dreams. Hyundai is malfunctioning and I hate it

              Not Rated
              Features
              Not Rated
              Interior
              Not Rated
              Design
              Not Rated
              Safety
              Not Rated
              Reliability
              Not Rated
              Deal Value
              Not Rated
              Dealer Review

              JR

              Jim Rossick

              2020 Hyundai Elantra

              SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: July 4, 2024

              2020 Elantra

              Pros - ["Gas mileage", "Smooth ride"]

              Cons - ["Just a tad small", "Nothing else really"]

              Back in 2021 I was looking for a new vehicle to replace my 2013 Elantra with alot of mileage on it. Looked at multiple dealerships. Finally came across my car at a dealership and it was actually a loaner vehicle with 2500 miles on it. Worked out a good deal and brought "Black Betty" home..car has been good to me...same with the last Elantra...can't really complain about the Hyundai brand at all ...

              Not Rated
              Features
              Not Rated
              Interior
              Not Rated
              Design
              Not Rated
              Safety
              Not Rated
              Reliability
              Not Rated
              Deal Value
              Not Rated
              Dealer Review