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2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport Video Review

Hyundai Elantra Sport Review: Performance Meets Style | MotorVero

Hyundai Elantra Sport Review: Elevating Performance in the Compact Sedan Segment


Hyundai Elantra Sport

The Hyundai Elantra Sport represents a significant evolution in the compact sedan market, offering drivers an enticing combination of athletic performance and everyday practicality. As the performance-oriented variant of Hyundai's popular Elantra lineup, the Sport model delivers more than just cosmetic enhancements—it brings legitimate driving excitement to the segment.

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What Sets the Elantra Sport Apart?

While the standard Elantra already impressed with its sleek design and comfortable ride, the Sport version takes the formula several steps further with:

  • A more powerful 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower
  • Sport-tuned suspension for sharper handling
  • Aggressive exterior styling with unique front and rear bumpers
  • Sport-specific interior accents and seating
  • Available 6-speed manual transmission for driving enthusiasts

Performance That Exceeds Expectations

The heart of the Elantra Sport is its 1.6L Turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine, which delivers class-leading power in the compact segment. Unlike many competitors that offer only modest power bumps in their sport variants, the Elantra Sport's 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque represent a substantial upgrade over the base model.

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Key Performance Specifications:

Engine 1.6L Turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder
Horsepower 201 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque 195 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,500 rpm
Transmission 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
0-60 mph 6.7 seconds (manual transmission)

Precision Handling and Driving Dynamics

Hyundai engineers didn't stop at just adding more power. The Elantra Sport benefits from numerous chassis enhancements that transform its driving character:

  • Sport-tuned suspension with higher-rate springs and dampers
  • Larger front and rear stabilizer bars
  • Quick-ratio steering for more immediate response
  • Upgraded braking system with larger front rotors
  • Available 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires

These changes result in a car that feels notably more agile and responsive than the standard Elantra, with reduced body roll in corners and more communicative steering. While not as hardcore as some dedicated sports cars, the Elantra Sport strikes an excellent balance between sporty handling and daily drivability.

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Standout Exterior Design

The Elantra Sport's visual differentiation goes beyond mere badges and trim pieces. Hyundai designers gave it a distinctly more aggressive appearance with:

  • Unique front fascia with larger air intakes
  • Sport-specific grille pattern
  • Rear diffuser-style lower bumper
  • Dual exhaust outlets
  • Available LED headlights and taillights
  • Choice of exclusive colors including Sport Blue and Fiery Red

Interior: Sporty Yet Sophisticated

Inside, the Elantra Sport builds on the standard model's well-appointed cabin with several performance-oriented enhancements:

  • Sport seats with additional bolstering for support during spirited driving
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
  • Metal sport pedals
  • Red stitching and accents throughout the cabin
  • Sport-specific gauge cluster with turbo boost gauge

Despite its performance focus, the Elantra Sport retains all the practicality of the standard model, including a spacious trunk and comfortable rear seating for adults.

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How It Compares to Key Rivals

The compact sport sedan segment has become increasingly competitive. Here's how the Elantra Sport stacks up against its main competitors:

vs. Honda Civic Sport

While the Civic Sport offers sharp handling, its 158-hp engine can't match the Elantra Sport's power advantage. The Hyundai also provides more standard features at a similar price point.

vs. Toyota Corolla SE

The Corolla SE focuses more on fuel efficiency than performance, with its 169-hp engine feeling less energetic than the Elantra Sport's turbocharged powerplant.

vs. Volkswagen Jetta GLI

The Jetta GLI offers similar performance but at a higher price point. The Elantra Sport delivers about 90% of the GLI's driving experience for significantly less money.

Is the Hyundai Elantra Sport Right for You?

The Elantra Sport makes an excellent choice for buyers who:

  • Want sporty performance without sacrificing everyday practicality
  • Appreciate having manual transmission availability in the segment
  • Value Hyundai's excellent warranty coverage (5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain)
  • Seek a well-equipped sport compact at a competitive price

While enthusiasts might still prefer dedicated sports cars, the Elantra Sport delivers an appealing mix of attributes that few competitors can match—proving that practical compact sedans can be genuinely fun to drive.

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Last Updated On Jul, 03-2025

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