2019 Hyundai Elantra Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

Designed to compete against compact sedans like the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra brings a lot of positive traits to the table. Not only is the new Elantra affordable, but it also comes with Hyundai's 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. While the standard engine is smooth and economical, some drivers will desire the available turbocharged engine's extra punch.

For 2019, Hyundai decided to refresh the Elantra. In terms of exterior styling, it now has an undeniable resemblance to the midsize Hyundai Sonata. New safety technologies have been added as well, including lane departure intervention and Safe Exit Assist.

Hyundai gives you a total of six Elantra trims to pick from: SE, SEL, Value Edition, Eco, Limited, and Sport. Let's see which one of these trims fits you the best.

Compare the 2019 Hyundai Elantra SE vs SEL Trims. What is the difference?

Looking to save some money? If so, take a strong look at the entry-level Elantra SE. This base model starts at a competitive $17,100. On the inside of the Elantra SE, you'll find the basics. The main features include a 5.0-inch infotainment display, a backup camera, and a six-speaker stereo system. Cloth upholstery surrounds the cabin. No advanced safety technologies come on this base model.

Powering the Elantra SE is a 147-horsepower engine. While a six-speed manual transmission comes standard, you can get a six-speed automatic transmission as an option. Despite not offering a ton of performance, the SE trim does boast a fun Sport driving mode. In contrast to the upper trims, the Elantra SE comes equipped with cheaper rear drum brakes opposed to a more powerful set of rear disc brakes.

On the inside of the Hyundai Elantra SE, you'll find the basics. The highlights include a 5.0-inch infotainment display, a backup camera, and a six-speaker stereo system. Cloth upholstery surrounds the cabin. No advanced safety technologies come on this base model.

To experience more luxury, step up to the SEL trim. It replaces the standard hubcaps with a slightly more attractive set of 16-inch alloy wheels. Heated exterior mirrors are also added to the SEL trim. Although the engine remains the same, rear disc brakes provide enhanced stopping power.

There are some important interior features found on the Elantra SEL. The biggest upgrade is the 7.0-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Satellite radio brings more entertainment to the table. An advanced safety package gives you more security on the road. Some of the the driver-assist technologies include blind-spot monitoring, driver drowsiness detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane -keep assist.

Compare the 2019 Elantra SEL vs Value Edition Trims. What is the difference?

The Elantra Value Edition has an appropriate name. It's likely the best bargain in the lineup. Although the Value Edition trim may not look seriously different from the SEL trim, it does come equipped with LED running lights and door-handle approach lights. Creature comforts, such as heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control, are also found on the Elantra Value Edition. Push-button start, a sunroof, and a hands-free smart trunk help make this trim an even sweeter deal.

Unlike the lower SEL trim, the Elantra Value Edition comes equipped Hyundai's Blue Link Connected Car system. With the use of this system, you can remotely lock/unlock the doors and start the car via your smartphone. You can even program the interior climate settings.

Compare the Elantra Value Edition vs Eco Trims. What is the difference?

The Elantra Eco is designed to be a fuel saver. It comes equipped with a smaller turbocharged engine, which develops 128 horsepower. Along with the more efficient engine comes a seven-speed automatic transmission. Smaller wheels further aid the sedan's fuel economy.

Aside from providing dual USB ports, you'll find the Elantra Eco to be similar to the Elantra Value Edition. However, it lacks a sunroof.

Compare the Elantra Eco vs Limited Trims. What is the difference?

If you're seeking the best of the best, go for the Elantra Limited. A snazzier set of 17-inch alloy wheels come standard. You'll also benefit from the Elantra Limited's LED headlights, which automatically dim when approaching vehicles at night.

Adjustable rear headrests give your backseat passengers a greater sense of comfort. Leather upholstery provides the entire interior a more premium character. Meanwhile, the Elantra Limited's more powerful Infinity sound system adds more fun to your morning commute. Some of the other niceties include wireless phone charging, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Aside from a larger 8.0-inch touch screen with navigation, the optional Limited Ultimate package gives you more advanced safety technologies. Smart cruise control, pedestrian detection, and Hyundai's all-new Safe Exit Assist feature are included. Unlike the environmentally friendly Elantra Eco, the Elantra Limited reverts back to the base 2.0-liter engine.

Compare the 2019 Elantra Limited vs Sport Trims. What is the difference?

Drivers who find themselves bored with the other trims should check out the more exciting Elantra Sport. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine develops a soothing 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. Driving enenthuiisnts will certainly appreciate the Elantra Sport's quicker performer. While the standard six-speed manual transmission is easy to shift, some folks will want the available automatic transmission.

Hyundai also engineered the performance-oriented Elantra Sport to handle the road with a more poised demeanor. Firmer suspension tuning and low-profile tires help give the Sport trim an especially athletic character. Stronger brakes also reward you with quicker stops.

When comparing the Elantra Sport to the other trims, you'll notice its more aggressive look. The combination of a meaner front fascia and quad exhaust tips help it to command plenty of attention. A larger set of 18-inch wheels also give the Elantra Sport more attitude.

The Elantra Sport receives some racy interior treatments as well. A flat-bottom steering wheel and sport leather seats seek to keep you inspired. You'll also like the Sport trim's performance gauges and black headliner. Upgrades, such as an 8.0-inch navigation screen and the Infinity premium sound system, come in the Sport Premium package.

Final Thoughts

A low starting price and Hyundai's excellent warranty coverage make the base Elantra SE a good choice. However, upgrading to the SEL trim will prove to be worth the money. Hyundai's touch-screen infotainment system with smartphone integration will keep you happy. You also can't forget about the Elantra SEL's standard advanced safety package. For just a bit more money, Hyundai offers the even better equipped Elantra Value Edition.

While the Eco trim is built for efficiency, it won't save as much gas as you may think. While the Elantra Eco can return a combined 35 mpg, models equipped with the base engine can deliver a combined 33 mpg.

If you desire features like the Infinity sound system and LED headlights, think about getting the Elantra Limited. Furthermore, an optional package equips the Limited trim with more advanced driving aids. Safe Exit Assist is also included on the Limited model.

When it comes to performance, the Elantra Sport clearly sits atop the lineup. You'll find the Elantra Sport to be quick and nimble. Racier styling cues add to the Elantra Sport's charm. Before you buy the more entertaining Sport trim, be aware that features like the Infinity premium sound system and Hyundai's Blue Link Connected Car system are optional.

2019 Hyundai Elantra Key Features

Don't expect the base four-cylinder engine to provide much driving excitement. While it's smooth and efficient, there's just not a lot of oomph under the hood. Rated to deliver 32 mpg in town and 40 mpg on the highway, the Elantra Eco's engine actually feels stronger. Nevertheless, you'll find the Sport trim's engine to be especially entertaining. It promotes far stronger acceleration. Although the extra performance lowers fuel economy, most drivers will be satisfied with getting 33 mpg on the highway.

The base Elantra SE's 5.0-inch display forces you to miss out on certain smartphone technologies. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make the available 7.0-inch touch screen far more rewarding. Bluetooth also quickly links your phone to the interface. You'll also appreciate the interface's clear graphics. Most importantly, Hyundai's Blue Link infotainment system is not complicated to use.

A good number of safety technologies are available for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra. Unfortunately, Hyundai does not offer any driver-assist technologies on the base model. All of the upper trims equipped with an automatic transmission provide forward collision braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. When tested in a real-world setting, these systems performed well without any noticeable hiccups. You can also get the Elantra Limited with Side Exit Assist. This innovative safety technology helps prevent your backseat passengers from opening their door into traffic.

Hyundai's thoughtful Smart Trunk is definitely a feature worth getting. When approaching the Elantra with your key fob, it opens automatically. You won't need to press any buttons or swipe your food underneath the vehicle. When running everyday errands, the hands-free trunk is bound to become a convenience.

A lot of drivers will enjoy the available Blue Link Connected Car system. It allows you to perform several vehicle functions from your smartphone. Not only will you be able to start the car and set the cabin temperature, but you can also use it to track teen drivers.

The standard stereo system in the 2019 Hyundai Elantra has a fairly decent sound. Most drivers won't have any big complaints. However, there's no denying the available Infinity audio system's better sound quality. While Clari-Fi technology helps minimize distortion, an amplified subwoofer gives you deep bass.