Pricing: 2010 Hyundai Elantra goes Blue

Hyundai has announced pricing for the Elantra line plus a new “Blue” model that boasts of an EPA-rated 35 mpg in highway driving. The Blue line will be priced below the GLS and SE trims, and it will receive the highest fuel economy of the lineup. Across the board, Hyundai claims a four-percent fuel economy improvement for the Elantra range.

Positioned as the entry point to the small sedan range, the Elantra Blue starts at $14,145. To boost fuel economy, this base model enhances last year’s GLS manual model with lower-friction engine components, revised transmission gear ratios, engine calibration changes, improved lock-up torque converter, and a shift indicator. The results is a claimed six-percent boost in highway mileage to reach 35 mpg and eight-percent city increase to 26 mpg. In addition, the Elantra Blue will come with six air bags, ABS, tire pressure monitoring, and active front head restraints. Other standard features include power heated mirrors, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry. Air conditioning, plus the audio system and iPod connectivity can be added with the Comfort Package for $1,700.

The Elantra GLS will start at $16,895 and the SE at $17,845. Both will be fitted with the current 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with an EPA fuel economy rating of 26/34 city/highway--a four percent increase for city and three percent highway over the 2009 model year. Our tested Elantras returned a respectable 27 mpg overall. The SE is still the only trim line that comes with standard stability control. Delivery charges will add $720 to all prices.

The Elantra SE scores at the top of the compact sedan segment in Consumer Reports tests. For Ratings, reliability and safety data, see our Elantra model overview (available to online subscribers).  

 —Liza Barth