Given a choice, it’s safe to say that most people would go for a crossover over a traditional sedan these days. The midsize segment is pretty much stagnant, and the compact market hasn’t been making the same numbers like it once did. Thankfully, there are still a few bright spots here and there.
Sure, Nissan is out of the compact sedan game locally, and Mitsubishi hasn’t had a vehicle in that segment for ages. On the flipside, there’s the value-driven BYD Seal 5, while the Mazda 3 is still the class’ dynamic masterclass. Oh, and let’s not forget the brilliant Honda Civic, especially in hybrid form.
And, suddenly, here comes Hyundai, seemingly out of the blue, bringing in the full range of Elantra models in the country. It was a genuine surprise, to be honest, and the Korean automaker’s return to the segment wasn’t on our 2025 bingo card.
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A few months after its local launch, one of the many Hyundai Elantra variants have ended up with us. More specifically, it’s the Hybrid Premium that we took around for a spin. Not to preempt the review, but it’s a car that deserves your attention.
Styling
In many ways, it reminded of the radical tenth-generation Civic. From its low nose to its swoopy, coupe-like profile, the Elantra’s design is anything but conservative. While the design might not be to everyone’s taste, you have to give props to Hyundai for making each of the cars they make distinct. No ‘sausages cut in different lengths’ here, folks.
Also, it’s been a while since we’ve seen a sedan with a front end this low. We’re not complaining, though, as it gives it a sportier and dynamic look. Deep character lines add to the effect and make the car appear smaller than its 4.7 meter length suggests. As for the rear, we like what Hyundai did with it, complimented by those neat tail lights.
Interior
Following the slashes and acute angles of the exterior, the interior is a complete 180 of the theme. It’s all about gentle lines and the cockpit embraces the driver with a fluid, flowing theme. The low dash also provides great forward visibility, although the same couldn’t be said about the rear. Overall, the cabin design is cohesive and easy on the eye.
The Elantra makes good use of its interior space with acres of legroom at the front and rear. Perhaps it helps that the Elantra is a true global product that caters to people of all sizes, hence the wide degree of adjustability. However, the space utilization does come at the expense of relatively limited cubby spaces.
For the most part, cabin materials are good, although there’s a fair amount of hard plastics in there. At least Hyundai made the common touch points feel expensive, while the buttons and dials are satisfying to work with. Yes, there are still buttons and dials in here, and we’re glad Hyundai is sticking to those.
But where the Elantra excels is in ergonomics. There’s practically no need to reach for the owner’s manual to figure everything out. The touchscreen, while simple, is easy to use. At the same time, the controls are clearly marked and handily laid out for minimum distraction.
And while it’s a sedan, it’s still hugely practical. The trunk is good for 478 liters, and that’s despite the sloping trunklid. The best part is, the floor is low and wide, so bulky items fit with ease. It could do with a bigger opening, though, but those looking for a hybrid will be happy to know that this comes with a spare tire.
Engine performance
We’ll make one thing clear: The Elantra Hybrid’s powertrain isn’t a direct match for the Civic e:HEV. For starters, it has a smaller 1.6-liter Atkinson Cycle engine that’s mated to a single motor. On the flip side, it has a larger battery pack at 1.32kWh, and that came in handy during its time with us.
With the motor and engine working together, combined output is rated at 138hp, which doesn’t sound like a lot these days. However, it does have a healthy amount of torque at 264Nm (combined output). On the road, it pulls like a 2.0-liter and feels as if it has another extra 20hp on tap. Of course, the response from its electric motor does help in giving it peppy, off-the-line performance.
As this is a hybrid, it’s vital we talk about fuel economy. That large (for a hybrid) battery pack did wonders for that as we recorded a high of 24.1km/L in light traffic. But even in heavy traffic, the Elantra absolutely refused to dip below 11km/L. It helps that it runs on electric drive for the most part, kicking in only when the batteries need a bit of a charge.
Ride and handling
For those who’d like to know what a European car feels like, the Elantra comes shockingly close. We will admit that the Honda Civic and Mazda 3 still have the edge in driver engagement, but the Korean strikes a great balance between ride and handling.
Roadholding is excellent, and there’s enough feel and feedback to offer a somewhat engaging driving experience. Despite the low-grip eco tires, the chassis remains playful around the bends. We imagine a change of tires can easily transform the feel behind the wheel.
At the same time, the ride is incredibly supple. The best part is, it doesn’t come at the expense of handling. Body control is well managed with no unnecessary movements, and the suspension does a great job of keeping the body level. It’s something that one needs to experience firsthand because, seriously, this is one of the best all-arounders out there.
Extra features
For its price (which we’ll get to later), equipment levels are fair but not spectacular. There’s advanced driver assists present, which is to be expected these days. But what it doesn’t have is a 360-degree camera (rear only) and rear autonomous emergency braking.
The touchscreen measures 10.25 inches, although there’s a larger screen option but it’s not offered locally. As for the rest of the infotainment system, it has the usual Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity that can be done wirelessly. Vehicle settings can be changed via the multi-information display, and there’s a fair amount of adjustability.
Verdict
Hyundai Philippines made a huge gamble bringing in the Elantra here. It’s a bold move to bring in a new model in a shrinking segment, but we appreciate the fact that it’s here. We’re even happier to report that buzz surrounding its return is definitely worth the hype.
It’s incredibly efficient and offers solid performance. But it’s really the chassis that shines in the Elantra. On that alone, this sedan is worth putting in your shortlist. At P1,680,000, it’s less expensive compared to the Toyota Corolla Altis HEV and Honda Civic hybrid, so it’s a great alternative to the Japanese competition. Sure, the BYD Seal 5 is a good chunk of change less, but it’s not even close in terms of chassis dynamics.
While sedans don’t sell like they used to, the Elantra deserves to be successful. Frankly, it’s a waste to dismiss it on the basis that it’s a sedan, but this car is proof that you don’t always need a crossover or an SUV.
Specs: 2025 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Premium
Price: P1,680,000
Engine: 1.6-liter gasoline I4 + single electric motor
Power: 138hp (combined)
Torque: 264Nm (combined), 147Nm (engine)
Transmission: Six-speed dual-clutch
Layout: FWD
Seating: 5
Score: 9/10
