2022 Hyundai Elantra Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

Are you looking for a budget-friendly sedan?  Well, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra would be an ideal choice. Hyundai has given a modern and stylish touch while keeping it affordable. The SE comes in under $20,000, which can be hard to do given all the costs of making vehicles. The SEL, N Line, and Limited are the other trims in the lineup, and while they're not quite as cheap as the SE is, they're very competitively priced.

As a fairly basic car, the Elantra isn't necessarily going to win any races. Thanks to its sculpted exterior and wide front grille, it still has an athletic look. Hyundai has given it plenty of high-tech features, betting on the fact that technology will be a major selling point. This is likely to ring true in 2022, and Elantra may offer everything that certain buyers want.

Let’s dive in and see what’s the difference.

Compare the SE vs SEL Trims. What is the difference?

Engine

Both SE and SEL run on 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engines. Generating 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque altogether, giving it a good suspension. This isn't anything to get too excited about, but it's a decent amount of power, especially for a smaller vehicle. The two trims use Smartstream intelligent variable transmissions because the front-wheel drive is standard.

Wheels

SE serves as a basic trim with 15-inch alloy wheels. On the other hand, SEL has 16-inch alloy wheels as standard. Depending on your need, you can replace them with 17-inch wheels.

Exterior of SE vs SEL

When talking about the exterior, you won't find many distinctions.

Mirror & Windows

Both trims have LED daytime running lights and a chrome front grille. Plus, the handles and mirrors are body-colored. The only difference is SEL offers you the option to get chrome window trim, a dark chrome front grille, and LED rear taillights. However, SEL doesn't offer side mirrors heating elements or turn signal indicators as standard, but you can upgrade them if needed.

Sunroof

Another major apparent difference is the sunroof. The SEL offers a sunroof, whereas SE has a plain roof. Most people find sunroofs luxurious and do not regret spending extra dollars on them. Imagine your road trip where you can see the sky while driving; so mesmerizing.

Interior of SE vs SEL

Touchscreen

From a technological point of view, the SE is quite appealing. It comes with advanced technical features like an eight-inch high-resolution touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and HD radio. A voice recognition system serves as a treat. Plus, the control system mounted on the steering wheel will help you while making adjustments to the infotainment system. Behind the steering wheel is a 4.2-inch color gauge cluster. On the SEL, that gauge cluster can be upgraded to one that measures 10.25 inches. Making it easier to see vehicle information when driving.

Seats

The two trims have cloth seats and manually adjustable front seats. A power-adjustable driver's seat is available with the SEL, as are heated front seats. While the SE has a manual air conditioning system, the SEL gets upgraded with dual automatic climate control. Further, it has proximity key entry instead of remote keyless entry like the SE has, and the SEL has a push button start, too. Some other convenient things in the SEL, but not on the SE, are a one-touch auto-up driver's window and illuminated vanity mirrors.

SiriusXM

SiriusXM comes as a standard on the SEL, whereas SE doesn't offer such a feature. This can be a selling feature for those who still prefer radio over other music platforms. SiriusXM has the ability to entertain them with a large number of radio stations - without the hassle of repeated tunning.

Driver-assist Systems

Safety is a strength of the Hyundai Elantra. The company has made the strategic decision to put a full set of driver-assist systems in all trims of this sedan. The SE benefits from having high beam assist, safe exit warning, and driver attention warning. Plus, it has a lane-keeping assist and lane-following assist, as well as blind spot collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection.

If you are unfamiliar with such kind of terminology, let me explain it to you. Basically, it means Elantra can correct its steering or braking if necessary. For example, you will get a warning alert if you are backing out of a spot, changing lanes, or approaching another car too quickly when it's not safe. Plus, in case the driver panics during some uncertain moment, the power of the automatic braking system and steering adjustment will save you from major accidents.

Cruise Control

Two other things are optional on the SEL and not available on the SE. They are smart cruise control and an enhanced forward collision system that has cyclist detection and junction-turning detection.

Compare the SEL vs N Line. What is the difference?

Powertrain

The biggest difference seen when moving from the SEL to the N Line is that the powertrain changes. In N Line a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine is installed - that brings some kick with it. The turbo engine can deliver 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, compared with the 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque that the standard engine has.

Transmission

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra equipped  N Line with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. If a buyer doesn't want to drive a manual, there's the option to get a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with SHIFTRONIC. The N Line also has a multi-link rear suspension to enhance handling and rides on 18-inch tires.

Fuel consumption

The fuel consumption of the 2022 Hyundai Elantra is quite good. SEL has a 2.0-liter engine and can achieve up to 41 miles per gallon on the highway and 31 miles per gallon in the city. The turbo-engined car can't perform well in this regard. An N Line with a manual transmission has an estimated fuel average of 25/34 (city/highway) miles per gallon. For clutch transmission, the average jumps up to 28/36 miles per gallon.

Exterior of SEL vs N Line

You will experience some notable differences on the exterior of the N Line.

Overall Look

When talking about the sleek look, the front grille, front bumper, and rear fascia come with a diffuser. At the car's rear, there's a chrome twin exhaust outlet, which makes the car seem more athletic. In addition, there is gloss black trim around the windows and full LED taillights. A sleek look and sophisticated style say it all.

Mirrors

Additional refined components of N Line that the lower trims don't offer are the heated side mirrors and a power sunroof. The N Line side mirrors have heating elements to combat frost and ice buildup. The driver takes advantage of a power-adjustable seat and has a standard power tilt-and-slide sunroof. The seat covers are made with a combination of leather and cloth. Overall giving it a sporty look.

Dual-clutch transmission

It aims to follow a sporty theme that uses a black headliner and alloy sport pedals. For better grip and a luxurious look, the steering wheel is wrapped in leather, as is the shift knob. In case you have updated to a dual-clutch transmission, the steering wheel can come with paddle shifters.

Wireless Charging

As far as the infotainment package is concerned, the N Line is almost exactly the same as what the SEL offers. The only difference is the N Line comes with wireless charging. That can helpful during long road trips.

Digital Key

Hyundai Digital Key is a futuristic feature concluded with the N Line. With this feature, a smartphone can function as a smart key fob. Of course, it would have to be preprogrammed to do so, but the driver can do this quite easily. It can be useful in a few different scenarios. One is when a friend is temporarily borrowing the car and can't meet up with the owner to get the keys, and another is when someone is going hiking, biking, or doing something else active and doesn't want to keep his/her/her keys while adventuring. People in other situations will likely find Hyundai Digital Key to be great to have.

Cargo Space

Are you the one who carries larger cargo in the back? Well, N Line gives you enough space with the rear bench 60/40 split-folding option giving you great flexibility when carrying bulky items. However, the bench comes with an armrest and cupholders. With the SEL, the bench is just one piece, so there's not as much versatility.

Compare the N Line vs Limited Trim Levels. What is the difference?

Engine

The Limited SUV has the same 2.0-liter engine as SE and SEL. This clearly indicates that the N Line is the only Elantra that has a turbocharged engine. Though the Limited is not as zippy as the N Line is, it definitely has some advanced features that make it worth a look.

Wheels

The Limited rides on 17-inch wheels and has chrome window trim and a dark chrome front grille. The SUV has used LEDs in the headlights, taillights, and Daytime Running Lights. Giving more visible experience. On its side mirrors, the turn signal indicators are quite visible.

Seats & Steering wheel

When talking about the interior of the Limited, leather seats add to the refinement of the trim. The steering wheel and gear shifter are wrapped in leather. On the driver's demand, the ambient lighting color can be customized. The Limited is the only trim that offers a front passenger seatback pocket. It might not sound extraordinary, but it can be convenient for storing maps, books, and other types of items.

Touchscreen

Hyundai has given the Limited the best features in terms of technology. It comes standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen instead of an eight-inch one, and its touchscreen has integrated navigation. Dynamic voice recognition makes it more comfortable to use the infotainment system while keeping one's hands on the wheel. The premium sound system comes with eight Bose speakers, including a subwoofer.

Cruise Control & Cyclist detection

The Limited has the most advanced safety mechanisms as well. It comes standard with smart cruise control and cyclist detection. It has a parking distance warning system and reverses automatic braking to prevent minor fender benders. Plus, it has highway drive assist. When this program is engaged, the Elantra can use an array of information to drive in a safe manner. It uses GPS data and its sensors to keep itself centered in its lane and going the right speed, and it can truly be appreciated on long stretches of road.

Final Thoughts

It's hard to go wrong with the Hyundai Elantra because of its excellent value. Along with affordability, it has an impressive amount of technology. When deciding which trim to get, the first thing to consider is how much power you prefer. Going on a test drive will reveal that the N Line is more fun to drive than the others because of its turbocharged engine. The N Line also has enhanced styling, a sunroof, wireless charging, and Hyundai Digital Key. For such advanced reasons, the N Line is recommended.

If power isn't a priority, though, then the Limited would be a solid choice. It's relatively affordable, and it comes with so multiple advantages. Like the navigation, a larger touchscreen, a premium sound system, leather seats, and smart cruise control is enough to give you a smooth driving experience. Limited has the ability to attract attention from those with high-end tastes. The only downside of the Limited is it has a small 147-horsepower engine.

In the end, you will decide which is more important for you, power, the excitement of indulgence, or convenience. Either way, the Hyundai Elantra will prove to be reliable and practical.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2021 Hyundai Elantra Trime Levels