Hyundai Elantra

• The 1.6-litre petrol engine produces 128hp of power and offers mileage of around 16.8 km/l. The 2.0-litre petrol option produces 157 hp of power, and you can expect a mileage of 13-14 km/l depending on driving style.

• The 1.6-litre hybrid system is the standout option. Combined output reaches the efficiency sweet spot. Real-world consumption runs around 17-18 km/l, genuinely impressive for this segment. On highway drives with steady speeds, some drivers report pushing closer to 19 km/l. City stop-and-go traffic reduces it to around 15-16 km/l. The hybrid system works intelligently without being complicated. You don't need to understand how it functions to appreciate the fuel savings.

• All engines pair with a CVT transmission, which is smooth and helps ease the drive. Perhaps a real strength of the Elantra.

• Steering is light and responsive, making the Elantra feel nimble despite sedan proportions.

Some compromises:

• The base 1.6L engine is leisurely; acceleration from standstill requires patience. On the highway you need to be alert when merging in a lane. Those of you use highway drive often and also face heavy traffic, the 2L engine is a better choice.

• The boot size is 345 liters, which is limited compared to SUV's but should serve average family needs, however with multiple children might find it tight with luggage.

• Fuel economy drops during heavy traffic which is a concern if you wish to use it for commute 

• Handling Saudi Arabia's variable road surfaces is competent. Rough patches are managed without much struggle, and the suspension doesn't bottom out or feel overwhelmed. If you consider it, then predictability is the Elantra's strength. 

• City driving is responsive, with the steering being light. Parking won’t be an issue, and the turning radius is manageable for urban navigation. On the highway, the ride is smooth, takes on rough patches easily without much cabin harshness, something you will love during long road drives. 

• The Elantra is not nervous; it tracks expectedly through curves at normal speeds. The body roll is noticeable but controlled.

• Wind and road noise are well-managed. The cabin stays quiet at cruising speeds, and higher speeds bring more wind noise, but it's not excessive. The isolation is good for a sedan in this price range.

• The ride improves with more passengers and luggage. The suspension is calibrated for typical loads. Highway driving with a full cabin remains smooth. Empty highway drives feel slightly floaty, but still composed.

Some trade-offs:

• Speed bumps are felt more than in luxury sedans. The suspension is focused on highway comfort over bump isolation. Rough roads in remote areas have more impact than some expect.

• Lighter weight means gusty winds on highways can push the vehicle slightly. Not dangerous, just noticeable on very windy days.

• The interior design is minimalist but gives you upscale vibes. Everything has a purpose, the dashboard layout is quite simple and logical. Easy to handle the cockpit controls, and you won’t struggle to learn how things work

• Higher trims get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It's responsive and user-friendly. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on better trims mean seamless smartphone integration. Your music, maps, and calls work instantly. Lower trims get simpler systems, but even base models include USB connectivity.

• The 12V socket in base models expands to multiple USB ports on higher trims. Four USB ports (two front, two rear) mean everyone charges devices without fighting for outlets. You get wireless smartphone charging on the higher variants 

• The seat fabric upholstery is decent which can be considered practical and durable. Higher trims offer faux leather that looks decent. The material quality is solid throughout. Seating is comfortable for daily commutes. Long-distance drives remain comfortable for adults. The adjustable steering wheel and power driver seat on higher trims help you find your ideal driving position.

• Climate control is automatic on better trims, manual on base models. The system responds well in Saudi heat. Cooling reaches comfortable levels quickly. The air conditioning is one area where Hyundai didn't compromise.

• Cargo space is 345 litres with rear seats in place. Not large, but adequate 

• The interior ambience is modern with soft-touch materials on the dashboard that feel high-quality. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped on higher trims. Instrument clusters are big enough, which means you can read the info clearly, and the display screens are bright and responsive.

Honest impression:

• The Elantra's cabin delivers more quality than the price suggests. It's not luxury, but it's refined.

•  Hyundai made smart choices about where to invest materials and technology. It feels like driving a car made by people who understand sedan buyers.

• Base models get one airbag and ABS. That's basic but better than nothing. Mid-range models add a second airbag for the front passenger. Higher trims get seven airbags covering the driver, front passenger, front side, and curtain positions. The progression makes sense with the price increases.

• Electronic stability control and traction control are standard on higher trims, improving safety significantly in slippery conditions.

• Forward collision warning uses radar to give you updates on traffic ahead. Lane-keeping assist helps avoid lane departures on highways, a definitely useful feature for your everyday drive. 

• Moving object detection warns during parking if obstacles are present. The system actually works and prevents low-speed collisions.

• Automatic emergency braking on higher trims applies brakes if collision danger is detected. The system genuinely prevents some accidents.

• Blind-spot monitoring on premium trims alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots during lane changes. Rear cross-traffic alerts warn when reversing near crossing traffic. Central locking and an engine immobiliser are standard security features on all models.

What's clear:

Safety improves significantly moving up trim levels. Base models are adequate. Mid-range and higher trims offer genuine protection through technology. Choose your trim considering safety priorities.