The 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring is an all-new four-door hatchback variant of the similarly named compact sedan. Based on the Hyundai i30 CW, the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring comes well equipped with plenty of impressive standard features, long warranty, good cargo capacity and a spacious cabin.

 

The Hyundai Elantra’s standard equipment list includes electronic stability and traction control; four-wheel disc brakes (with ABS, brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution); six airbags; USB/iPod auxiliary input; XM Satellite Radio; a tilt-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls and cruise control; power windows and mirrors; and more.

 

A 141-horsepower DOHC 2.0-liter inline-4 with continuously variable intake-valve timing (CVVT) delivers an EPA estimated 23 mpg in city and 33 mpg on highways.

 

For everyday driving, the CVVT gives this small engine good throttle response and adequate torque. Shift action from the five-speed manual transmission is crisp. Similarly the clutch engagement is precise. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on this ace Hyundai model (a four-speed automatic is an option).

 

The brake pedal's effort and efficiency are well matched. The four-wheel discs function well too. However, the ABS gives out some noise during panic stops and most of it is from the all-season tires. The wind and tire noise are almost absent and the tires offer good grip on roads. At 106.3 inches, the Elantra Touring’s wheelbase is longer when compared to its rivals.

 

Inside the cabin, the Hyundai claims that the 2009 Elantra Touring has the largest overall interior volume of any vehicle in its class - 125.5 cubic feet. The rear-seat accommodations are generous but there are no ventilation vents and the seatbacks cannot be reclined. There is just 24 cubic feet of space for cargo. When the rear seats are folded flat, the cargo capacity goes up to 65 cubic feet which is more than what Nissan Murano offers. A small, hidden, watertight compartment under the cargo floor is a plus point.

 

The driver’s seat can be adjusted in six ways, and the passenger’s seat is four-way adjustable. The trendy tilt and telescoping steering is driver friendly and more suitable for full-size drivers. All the knobs and controls are placed at suitable spaces in the cabin and the quality of materials used is also good. There are a number of storage spaces. The standard six-speaker, 172-watt audio system with CD changer, satellite radio and MP3 capability sounds good but it’s not loud enough.

 

To conclude, the Elantra’s ride quality is smooth and stable, even at highway speeds. The wind and road noise are also negligible which make the Elantra one of the good choices in its class for those who drive a lot on highways.