Myth Busted: The 2025 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Limited

Myth: "There are no good, affordable cars anymore."

Myth busted: The 2025 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid.

Okay, there are other cars that make the list too, but we're talking about the Elantra Hybrid here---a car that endeared itself to me on a trip to Georgia last year where it significantly exceeded its already high EPA fuel economy estimate.

Events kept me from getting out on the highway and seeing if I could beat that EPA estimate (49 mpg city/52 highway/50 combined) this time, but even meeting it makes the Elantra one of the most frugal hybrids on the market. The EPA says you'll save $4,250 in fuel costs over five years compared to the typical new vehicle.

As with the last one, the hybrid system is basic---a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to an electric motor. The transmission is a six-speed automatic. Output is modest at 139 horsepower and acceleration is leisurely at 8.4 seconds from zero to 60.

That sounds slower than it is and slower than the Elantra feels. It's more than adequate.

The trunk is generous for the compact class at 14.2 cubic feet...

...and 38.2 inches of rear-seat legroom is a really good number.

Even in loaded Limited trim like our tester, the base price is only $29,450 ($30,600 with destination) and that comes with a remarkable list of standard features, including a comprehensive suite of active safety features, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, LED headlights with automatic high beam assist, a power sunroof, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 90-day SiriusXM satellite radio Platinum trial, navigation, a Bose premium audio system, voice recognition, digital key, wireless device charging, 60/40 split-folding rear seat with armrest and cupholders, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual automatic temperature control, synthetic leather upholstery, heated and front seats, driver seat memory and lumbar, and proximity key with pushbutton start.

And that's very nearly it. The only extra-cost option on our test vehicle was $210 for carpeted floor mats. Bottom line on the window sticker: $30,810.

That's a great price for such a well-equipped car, and one that will save significant money on fuel costs over the length of ownership. And let's not take for granted Hyundai's legendary warranty---10 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first).

So, myth...busted.