All in all, Hyundai has created a compact sedan easily as good as any of its competitors, with a full array of standard features besting them all. The Elantra's superb styling, class- leading performance and user-friendly functionality, sets it apart from its piers. The fact that it can be purchased for a paltry sum is the icing on a well-baked cake. If you're in the market for a compact car, make sure you give the Elantra a drive. You might just be as impressed as I was.

Specifications:

• Price Range: $14,875 - $20,175
• Engine: 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
• Output: 140 hp @ 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 133 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic (optional)
• Drive-type: Front engine, front-wheel drive
• Brakes: Front disc, rear drum with no ABS
• Curb Weight: 1,241 kg (2,736 lb) with automatic transmission
• Fuel Economy (L/100km): City: 9.6 Hwy: 6.5
• Warranty: 3 years or 60,000 km comprehensive and 5 years or 100,000 km drivetrain
• Competitors: Chevrolet Cavalier/Pontiac Sunbird, Chrysler Neon, Daewoo Nubira, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Kia Sephia, Toyota Corolla