Sitting back in the comfortable cloth driver's seat, it's easy to see both the road ahead and the large white-on-black speedometer, tachometer, temperature and fuel gauges. Everything important is within easy reach. The stereo is high in the console with a convenient CD storage nook just below. Again, the heating and ventilation controls are close at hand and simple to operate. The HVAC system is comprised of three large dials for air direction, fan speed and temperature, as well as three buttons for re-circulating or fresh air, defrost and air conditioning. Overall the interior is large and airy, offering comfortable accommodation for four adults, though technically it can seat five.

Turn the key and the Elantra's 2.0-litre, DOHC, 16-valve 4-cylinder comes to life. While it's smooth and quiet at idle, the 140-hp engine is a literal dynamo at full throttle. A quick shifting 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission (standard on VE) gets the power to the road via the front wheels.

Optional 15" five-spoke alloy wheels and tires improve what are already good road manners, while not impeding the Elantra's better than average ride. Looking at the specs, it's easy to see why the car handles so well. While many of its competitors opt for a less sophisticated solution, Hyundai has equipped the Elantra with a 4-wheel independent suspension system with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link set up in the back. Gas-filled shocks, front and rear stabilizer bars and rack-and-pinion steering round out the package. Braking comes via power-assisted discs up front and drums in the rear, but alas, no ABS is available.

Hyundai dresses up the Elantra with eight colour options, Arctic Silver, Prime Beige, Parrot Blue, Antique Rose, Amethyst Mauve, Noble White, Ebony Black and Elm Green. Interior colour options are less creative, being either beige or grey depending on your exterior choice. Expect some alternative colour choices for 2002, as well as a sporty new 5-door variant dubbed GT.