A few decades ago, people bought compact vehicles out of necessity. Today, getting a smaller car often means you’re smarter with your finances, or about climate change, or about how America’s thirst for oil impacts geopolitics. Smaller vehicles have earned a kind of prestige, much like notebook computers; the smaller it is, the more modern and high-tech. In fact, there are compact vehicles from luxury carmakers that can top $50,000 when properly equipped. For those who prefer something with petite proportions to zip in and out of congested areas, dig the fuel efficiency that usually comes from driving small vehicles, and simply prefer lighter-weight cars, these compacts make highly intelligent choices.
About Vehix Buying Guide and JDPower.com Ratings
Vehix 2010 Compact Buying Guides features ratings by JDPower.com. Learn more about the criteria and ratings.
There are seven vehicles highlighted in the 2010 Compact Buying Guide. All vehicles are listed in alphabetical order.
A decade ago, when Hyundai got serious about making really good cars, the Elantra led the charge. Today, the little car that could still does, ranking among the tops in its class for quality and reliability. Available in sedan or hatchback form, the 2010 Hyundai Elantra (view photos) impresses with its refined, roomy cabin, efficient engine and generously furnished standard equipment list. This year, the Elantra sedan’s fuel economy is improved, and a new entry-level Blue model, with a five-speed manual transmission, delivers 35 mpg on the highway.
Power is supplied by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine making 138 horsepower. But models qualifying for Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) status make less at 132 ponies. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed automatic optional. With decent room for five passengers, combined with a Honda Accord-sized trunk in the sedan, and compact car fuel economy, the 2010 Elantra is the little car that isn’t so little after all.
- No. 1-ranked compact vehicle in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Initial Quality Survey (IQS)
- 23 city/35 fuel economy range
- MSRP: $14,145 - $19,795
Research the 2010 Hyundai Elantra
View the 2010 Hyundai lineup
