Let's dive into the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport SE16SE Turbo, a car that blends practicality with a dash of sporty fun. This review will cover everything you need to know, from its performance and handling to its interior features and overall value. If you're looking for a compact sedan that offers a bit more excitement than your average commuter car, the Elantra Sport might just be the ticket.

Overview of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport

The 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport is a standout in the Elantra lineup, offering a more engaging driving experience compared to its more pedestrian siblings. What makes it so special? Well, under the hood lies a turbocharged engine that delivers a noticeable boost in power. This isn't just a cosmetic upgrade; Hyundai has made real changes to the suspension, steering, and brakes to create a genuinely sporty feel. The Elantra Sport aims to provide an affordable and practical option for those who want a little fun in their daily drive.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features and specifications that make the 2018 Elantra Sport tick. The heart of this car is its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces around 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Sport also gets a unique suspension tuning, larger front brakes, and a quicker steering ratio compared to the standard Elantra models. Visually, it stands out with its sporty exterior styling, including a rear spoiler, side skirts, and unique alloy wheels. Inside, you'll find sport seats with leather bolsters, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and red contrast stitching.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport truly shines. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of punch, making acceleration and passing maneuvers a breeze. Whether you're merging onto the highway or navigating city streets, the Elantra Sport feels responsive and eager to please. The upgraded suspension does an excellent job of keeping the car planted in corners, reducing body roll and providing a confident feel. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback from the road. Overall, the Elantra Sport delivers a driving experience that is both enjoyable and engaging, making it a standout in its class. If you opt for the manual transmission, you'll find the gear changes are smooth and precise, adding to the fun factor. The dual-clutch automatic is also a good choice, offering quick and seamless shifts. The larger front brakes provide strong stopping power, giving you added confidence in emergency situations.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport, you'll find a well-designed interior with a focus on sporty details and user-friendly technology. The cabin is comfortable and functional, with quality materials and a straightforward layout. While it may not be the most luxurious interior in its class, it offers a pleasant and practical environment for both driver and passengers.

Interior Design and Comfort

The interior design of the 2018 Elantra Sport is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The sport seats provide excellent support and comfort, making them ideal for long drives. The leather bolsters add a touch of luxury, while the red contrast stitching adds a sporty flair. The flat-bottom steering wheel feels great in your hands and adds to the car's sporty character. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the controls within easy reach. The cabin is surprisingly spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate two adults, making the Elantra Sport a practical choice for families. The trunk is also generously sized, offering plenty of room for luggage or groceries. Overall, the interior of the Elantra Sport is well-thought-out and provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Technology and Infotainment Features

The 2018 Elantra Sport comes equipped with a range of technology and infotainment features designed to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are also included, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. This makes it easy to access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts using voice commands. Other notable features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Upgrading to the higher trim levels adds features like an 8-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and a premium audio system. The premium audio system delivers excellent sound quality, making your favorite music sound even better. The navigation system is easy to use and provides accurate directions, helping you get to your destination without any hassle. Overall, the technology and infotainment features in the Elantra Sport are well-integrated and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport is where this car truly shines. With its turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and responsive steering, the Elantra Sport offers a fun and engaging driving experience that is unmatched in its class. Whether you're commuting to work or hitting the open road, the Elantra Sport is sure to put a smile on your face.

On the Road Performance

On the road, the 2018 Elantra Sport delivers a confident and engaging driving experience. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, making acceleration and passing maneuvers a breeze. The car feels responsive and eager to please, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The sport-tuned suspension does an excellent job of keeping the car planted in corners, reducing body roll and providing a confident feel. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback from the road. Overall, the Elantra Sport is a joy to drive, offering a level of performance that is unexpected in a compact sedan. The car feels well-balanced and composed, even when pushed hard. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing plenty of stopping power. The Elantra Sport is also surprisingly refined, with a smooth and quiet ride on the highway.

Handling and Responsiveness

The handling and responsiveness of the 2018 Elantra Sport are key factors that set it apart from other compact sedans. The sport-tuned suspension, larger front brakes, and quicker steering ratio all contribute to a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The car feels nimble and agile, making it fun to drive on twisty roads. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, allowing you to confidently place the car exactly where you want it. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing plenty of stopping power in emergency situations. The Elantra Sport also benefits from a well-tuned electronic stability control system, which helps to keep the car stable and under control in slippery conditions. Overall, the handling and responsiveness of the Elantra Sport are excellent, making it a top choice for drivers who enjoy a sporty driving experience.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport.

Advantages

• Peppy Turbo Engine: The turbocharged engine provides ample power for a fun driving experience.
• Sporty Handling: Upgraded suspension and steering make for engaging handling.
• Affordable Price: Offers great performance and features for the price.
• User-Friendly Tech: Easy-to-use infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Comfortable Interior: Sport seats and spacious cabin provide a comfortable ride.

Disadvantages

• Interior Materials: Some interior materials could be of higher quality.
• Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is decent but not class-leading.
• Ride Quality: The sport-tuned suspension can be a bit firm on rough roads.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a compact sedan with a sporty edge. Its turbocharged engine, upgraded suspension, and stylish design set it apart from the competition. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a car that's fun to drive, practical, and affordable, the Elantra Sport should definitely be on your list. This car offers a compelling package that's hard to beat, blending performance, features, and value in a way that few other cars in its class can match. So, if you're in the market for a new car, be sure to give the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport a test drive – you might just be surprised at how much you like it! Guys, it's a solid option.