Back to the GT, it not only looks good but also handles very well. I've already mentioned it comes with a sport-tuned suspension, adding to its

Both the SE 4-door and 5-door GT feature P195/60R-15 all-season tires and alloy rims. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

peppier persona. It's been a while since I've driven the Elanta GT, almost 2 years to be exact, but it still has the same flare from years ago, albeit refined slightly in just about every way. I'll admit, it took me a couple of days behind the wheel to rekindle my excitement, but it came back full throttle.

Adding to the appeal of both the SE 4-door and 5-door GT is a handsome list of convenience features that make everyday driving much more enjoyable. For instance, both come with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, P195/60R-15 all-season tires on with alloy rims, front fog lights, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, a power sunroof, as well as keyless entry,

It's so nice to be able to drive a decently sized car with ample power and not have to spend a fortune on gas. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

power door locks and mirrors, power windows and cruise control. Both also come with a pretty nifty AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, perfect for my '80s retro mix or, the bit of classical I tuned in, and even hip hop.

The goodness doesn't stop there, mind you. Let's talk fuel economy. Both are gentle on the wallet, if only because they come with thrifty 4-cylinder engines. Estimated fuel consumption for the SE automatic transmission is 9.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.7 L/100 km on the highway. The GT 5-speeds estimated fuel economy is 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.3 L/100 km on the highway. It's so nice to be able to drive a decently sized car with ample power and not have to spend a fortune on gas, because after all, at the end of the day a car's fuel economy is critical to most "normal" peoples' bottom line. While I am not a starving student anymore, I still don't like paying out an unnecessarily large portion of my budget for fuel.