In a packed and popular segment, it can be difficult to stand out. The compact sedan is the entry point for many drivers and is also popular amongst commuters looking for affordable, gas-saving options without switching to hybrid or electric power. The 2025 Hyundai Elantra is a great example of a compact sedan that stands out from the pack, with sharp exterior design and an eye towards value. Coming off a redesign for the 2024 model year, the new year gets some minor updates.

There are a pair of engines available in the 2025 Hyundai Elantra – the Hybrid and the N performance model are considered separate models. The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit puts out 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, through the Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). It’s responsive and reliable around town thanks to an excellent power-to-weight ratio. The upgraded turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine raises those power numbers to 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. With a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission, this turns the Elantra into a perky, zippy ride that provides plenty of confidence on on-ramps and merging. The fuel economy of the base engine can reach up to 32 MPG city and 41 MPG highway on the lightest trim, while the turbocharged engine gets 28 MPG city and 35 MPG highway.

A slim front fascia and creased sheet metal provide the 2025 Hyundai Elantra with a sharp, athletic appearance. Angular and eye-catching, Dual-LED projector headlights sweep around the corners of the hood from the front fascia. Available heated side mirrors clear off easily in ice and snow, providing optimal visibility.

While it is a compact sedan, the seating in the 2025 Hyundai Elantra is fairly roomy. Seating for five includes 37.3 inches of headroom and 38.0 inches of legroom in the second row of seats, comparable to many compact SUVs. The trunk offers 14.2 cubic feet of cargo volume, plenty for a trip to the airport or light errands – its also one of the largest trunks in the class.

The 8-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is standard, along with HD Radio. Higher-level trims get a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, wired CarPlay and Auto, and the addition of SiriusXM satellite radio with an included trial period. Bluetooth hands-free with voice recognition is standard, and the controls are mounted on the steering wheel. There are four USB ports, including a combination charge and data port in the front and Dual USB-C ports for the second row.

Hyundai SmartSense is featured on all 2025 Hyundai Elantra models. This suite of driver assistance features includes blind-spot collision avoidance warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection (FCA-Ped) and Cyclist Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and Safe Exit Warning (SEW). The Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can be upgraded to include junction turning detection and direct oncoming detection.

Five trim levels are provided for the 2025 Hyundai Elantra, ranging from basic to sporty.

The base SE model sits on 15-inch alloy wheels, with a black front grille and standard body color door handles. Manual climate controls and basic power windows and door locks offer convenience. Wrapped in cloth, the front seats are manually adjustable – the driver seat has 6-way adjustability, while the passenger seat is four-way adjustable.

Stepping up to the SEL Sport trim adds two-tone 17-inch wheels. A black trunk lid lip spoiler outside and metal pedal covers inside add sporty touches. Inside, Qi-compatible wireless charging is standard, and the climate controls are upgraded to dual automatic controls. The steering wheel and shift knob are both wrapped in leather for a hint of luxury.

No longer an available package to be added onto the SEL trim, the SEL Convenience trim sits in the middle of the line-up. Heated side mirrors are standard outside, and heated front seats help improve comfort in cold weather. A sunroof helps to open up the interior and offers light and ventilation. The biggest upgrade is the addition of the 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Wi-Fi hotspot functionality and navigation.

The Limited trim comes with the Bose Premium Audio system with 8 speakers. A dark chrome front grille and chrome window trim provide some hints of luxury outside, while inside the seats are trimmed in leather and customizable ambient interior lighting adds mood. Front seats are heated and have power adjustability. This trim also steps up the safety features, with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC) standard.

Featuring the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, the N Line builds on the SEL Convenience trim level. It sits on sporty 18-inch alloy wheels, clad in low-profile all-season performance tires. A unique N Line front bumper leads the way, while in the back, an N Line rear fascia with a diffuser is highlighted by full LED taillights and a chrome twin exhaust outlet. The seats are N Line leather/cloth combination sport seats, and the unique N Line leather-wrapped steering wheel comes with paddle shifters.

Compact and affordable, with a unique style, the 2025 Hyundai Elantra offers models for all drivers, from beginning drivers to those looking for a sporty yet efficient commuter car. Concentrating on value and capabilities, check out the new Elantra today! Schedule a test drive at West Broad Hyundai in Richmond, VA today!