2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport: A Sporty Sedan Review
Hey there, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport, a car that often flies under the radar but deserves a closer look. This review will cover everything, from its peppy performance and sleek design to its surprisingly generous features and overall value. If you're in the market for a compact sedan that injects some fun into your daily commute without breaking the bank, stick around! We'll explore why the Elantra Sport might just be the perfect fit for you, especially if you're looking for a vehicle that offers a blend of practicality and excitement.
Unveiling the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport: What's the Buzz?
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport is more than just another compact sedan; it's a statement. It's a shout-out to those who want a little extra oomph in their driving experience. While the standard Elantra focuses on fuel efficiency and everyday usability, the Sport model dials up the excitement with a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and a host of performance-oriented upgrades. It's designed to appeal to drivers who appreciate a spirited ride without sacrificing the practicality and affordability of a compact car. It is a car that strikes a sweet spot between being fun to drive and being a comfortable daily driver.
So, what makes the Elantra Sport stand out? For starters, it packs a punch with its turbocharged engine, providing brisk acceleration and engaging performance. The sport-tuned suspension enhances handling, making it more agile and responsive on the road. Inside, you'll find a sporty interior with features that elevate the driving experience. The Elantra Sport also offers a range of modern technologies, including advanced safety features and infotainment systems. For the 2020 model year, Hyundai also offered a 6-speed manual transmission alongside the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, which is a big win for driving enthusiasts who enjoy more control over their shifts. Overall, the 2020 Elantra Sport offers a compelling package for anyone looking for a sporty and practical compact sedan. It's a great choice for those who want a car that can handle daily commutes with ease and offer an engaging driving experience when the road opens up.
Performance and Handling: Does the Elantra Sport Deliver?
Let's get right to the good stuff: Performance and Handling! The heart of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport is its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This little powerhouse cranks out a healthy 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. That's a significant upgrade compared to the base Elantra models, and it translates to a much more spirited driving experience. The turbocharger provides quick acceleration, making merging onto the highway and passing other vehicles a breeze. It offers a surprising amount of get-up-and-go, especially for a car in its class. Acceleration is brisk, and the car feels eager to respond to your inputs.
But the Elantra Sport isn't just about straight-line speed; it also handles exceptionally well. The sport-tuned suspension, which includes stiffer springs and dampers, provides a more controlled and engaging ride. The car feels planted and stable through corners, with minimal body roll. The steering is responsive and precise, giving you a good feel for the road. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling winding back roads, the Elantra Sport feels composed and fun to drive. The available 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) offers quick and seamless shifts, further enhancing the car's sporty feel. For those who enjoy a more hands-on driving experience, the 6-speed manual transmission is also available, providing even greater control and engagement. Overall, the Elantra Sport's performance and handling characteristics make it a joy to drive. It's a car that's genuinely enjoyable on a daily basis. It offers a great balance of performance and practicality, making it an excellent choice for drivers who want a fun and engaging driving experience.
Interior and Features: What's Inside the Elantra Sport?
Alright, let's take a peek inside the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport and see what goodies await. The interior of the Elantra Sport is designed to be both functional and stylish, with a focus on driver-centric features and a sporty aesthetic. Stepping inside, you'll immediately notice the sporty touches, such as the flat-bottom steering wheel, which provides a more direct and engaging feel. The seats are well-bolstered, offering good support during spirited driving. They're also comfortable enough for long journeys, a testament to the car's dual nature as a practical daily driver and an exciting weekend car.
Beyond the sporty design cues, the Elantra Sport is packed with features. Standard equipment typically includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. You'll also find features like automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety features. Higher trim levels often include premium features such as a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a premium audio system. Hyundai has always been known for offering a lot of value for the money, and the Elantra Sport is no exception. It provides a generous level of standard equipment and available features, making it a compelling choice in its class. The materials used throughout the cabin are of good quality, and the overall fit and finish are impressive. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the controls are logically laid out. Overall, the interior of the Elantra Sport is a comfortable and well-equipped space that enhances the driving experience. It's a place where you'll enjoy spending time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. It offers a good balance of practicality, comfort, and style, making it a well-rounded package.
Design and Styling: Does it Look the Part?
Okay, let's talk about looks! The 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport definitely has a sporty and aggressive design that sets it apart from the standard Elantra. The front end features a more aggressive grille, unique headlights, and a distinctive front fascia that gives the car a more assertive stance. The side profile is sleek and modern, with a sloping roofline and sporty alloy wheels that add to its overall appeal. The rear of the car features a subtle spoiler and a dual exhaust system, further hinting at its performance capabilities. It's a design that's both stylish and functional, conveying a sense of athleticism without being overly flashy. The exterior design of the Elantra Sport is likely to turn heads and make a statement on the road.
Compared to the regular Elantra, the Sport model has several distinguishing features. These include unique badging, sportier bumpers, and side skirts. The overall look is more dynamic and engaging, signaling that this car is more than just a means of transportation – it's a car that is meant to be driven. The color palette also plays a role in the car's appeal, with a range of vibrant and sporty colors to choose from. The Elantra Sport's design is all about conveying a sense of performance and excitement. It's a car that looks as good as it drives. The design is a major selling point for the Elantra Sport. Its aggressive styling and sporty details make it stand out from the crowd. The designers did a great job of creating a car that looks fast and fun. If you're looking for a car that makes a statement, the Elantra Sport definitely delivers.
Tech and Safety: Keeping You Connected and Protected
Let's talk about the tech and safety features. The 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport comes loaded with technology and safety features designed to keep you connected, entertained, and protected on the road. The infotainment system is a central hub for all your in-car entertainment and connectivity needs. It typically includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and stream music directly from the car's interface. The system is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate and use. It also often includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a premium audio system, providing a high-quality audio experience. Tech is a major part of the Elantra Sport's appeal.
In terms of safety, the Elantra Sport offers a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features to help keep you and your passengers safe. Standard safety features typically include things like electronic stability control, traction control, a rearview camera, and multiple airbags. The Elantra Sport might also include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the road and surroundings. This helps to prevent accidents and protect you and your passengers. The combination of advanced technology and comprehensive safety features makes the Elantra Sport a safe and reliable choice for daily driving and family trips. Hyundai is known for prioritizing safety, and the Elantra Sport is a testament to that commitment. It offers a great balance of technology and safety, providing peace of mind on the road.
Trims and Value: What Do You Get for Your Money?
Let's break down the trims and the value proposition of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport. The Elantra Sport typically came in a few different trim levels, each offering a slightly different mix of features and equipment. While the exact trim levels and pricing may vary depending on the specific model year and location, the base trim usually offered a solid set of standard features, including the turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and a range of tech and safety features. As you moved up the trim levels, you could expect to find upgrades such as premium audio systems, leather upholstery, sunroofs, and additional driver-assistance systems. The higher trim levels provided a more luxurious and well-equipped driving experience, but they also came with a higher price tag.
Hyundai has a reputation for offering excellent value for the money, and the Elantra Sport is no exception. The car typically provided a generous amount of features for its price point, making it a compelling choice in the compact sedan segment. Compared to its competitors, the Elantra Sport often offered more standard equipment and a lower price. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who want a fun and well-equipped car. The Elantra Sport offers an impressive package of performance, features, and value. It's a great choice for those who want a sporty sedan that won't break the bank. With its competitive pricing and generous features, the Elantra Sport makes a strong case for itself in a crowded market.
The Driving Experience: Putting it to the Test
Driving the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport is a genuinely enjoyable experience. The combination of the turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and responsive steering creates a sense of agility and control. The car feels eager to accelerate, with brisk off-the-line performance and plenty of power for passing on the highway. The suspension provides a firm but comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road while keeping the car planted and stable in corners. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. It's a car that inspires confidence and encourages you to enjoy the drive.
The available 7-speed dual-clutch transmission offers quick and seamless shifts, further enhancing the sporty feel. If you prefer a more hands-on experience, the 6-speed manual transmission provides greater control and engagement. The interior is well-designed and comfortable, with supportive seats that hold you in place during spirited driving. The infotainment system is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless smartphone integration. The Elantra Sport is a car that you can enjoy driving every day, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend getaway. It's a fun and engaging car that offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. The driving experience is one of the key selling points of the Elantra Sport. It is a car that puts a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. The car is an excellent choice for drivers who want a sporty and practical sedan that's fun to drive.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad
Okay, let's get down to the Pros and Cons of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport to help you make an informed decision.
Pros:
- Punchy Performance: The turbocharged engine provides brisk acceleration and a fun driving experience.
- Sporty Handling: The sport-tuned suspension enhances handling and provides a more engaging ride.
- Well-Equipped Interior: The Elantra Sport comes with a generous amount of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and advanced safety features.
- Stylish Design: The sporty design elements, such as the aggressive grille, unique headlights, and dual exhaust, give the car a distinctive and attractive look.
- Excellent Value: The Elantra Sport typically offers a lot of features and performance for its price, making it a great value in its class.
Cons:
- Ride Quality: The sport-tuned suspension can be firm, which might not appeal to everyone.
- Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the Elantra Sport's fuel economy isn't as good as some of its competitors.
- Interior Materials: While the interior is well-designed, some of the materials used may not feel as premium as those found in some of its competitors.
Final Verdict: Is the Elantra Sport Right for You?
So, after all is said and done, is the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport the right car for you? It really depends on what you're looking for in a compact sedan. If you're looking for a car that offers a blend of performance, practicality, and value, the Elantra Sport is a strong contender. Its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension provide a fun and engaging driving experience, while its well-equipped interior and stylish design add to its appeal. The Elantra Sport is a great choice for anyone looking to add some excitement to their daily commute.
However, if ride comfort is your top priority, you might find the sport-tuned suspension a bit too firm. Similarly, if fuel economy is a major concern, you might want to consider other options. The Elantra Sport is a car that prioritizes performance and driving enjoyment, which might not be for everyone. Overall, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Sport is an excellent choice for drivers who want a sporty and fun-to-drive compact sedan. If you're looking for a car that combines performance, features, and value, the Elantra Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a car that's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. The Elantra Sport is a versatile car that can be used for daily driving and family trips. If you are looking for a car that is sporty and practical, the Elantra Sport is a great choice!