2007 HYUNDAI Elantra 4 doors 1.6L CRDi 5MT FWD (115 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Hyundai introduced the fourth generation of the Elantra at the 2006 New York Auto Show, and it tried a different approach to the market.

While it was one of the most affordable cars in its segment, the fourth-generation Elantra was not exactly a head-turner. Despite that, its built quality was among the best in its segment, and the long options list allowed customers to get what they wanted. Yet, the base model lacked even ABS, which was unusual for a 2006 vehicle.

The car’s styling was nothing to write home about it. Its organic shapes followed the same ideas as those used during the bio-design era, which was abandoned a decade before. The front fascia sported a pair of swept-back headlights with rounded corners, in total contradiction with the sharp-looking grille adorned by a chromed slat on its upper side. The profile revealed fluid lines, but in an unusual way, with a very tall trunk line when compared to the rest of the car. In addition, the automaker placed a third side row of windows behind the rear doors to bring more light into the cabin for the rear passengers.

Inside, the build quality was praised, but not the materials. Also, the base version didn’t even feature a stereo, and dealers had to install it. On the other hand, the upper trim levels featured side airbags and automatic air-conditioning. A good thing was that the automaker considered installing a split-folding rear bench for the entire range.

The Elantra was fitted with different engines, depending on the market. While the American customers received a standard 2.0-liter gasoline powerplant, the Europeans had to deal with the 1.6-liter units, either gasoline or turbo-diesel.