Hyundai Introduces Elantra Blue With High Mileage and Low Price
Taking a page from the Chevy Cobalt XFE, Hyundai has introduced a new entry-level trim for its Elantra compact sedan that promises improved gas mileage over the regular model. With a starting price of $14,145, the 2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue is essentially a base Elantra that features a "smart" alternator management system, lower friction engine components, revised transmission gear ratios, engine calibration changes and a manual transmission shift indicator. A five-speed manual is the only transmission available, whereas the GLS and SE trim levels come standard with a four-speed automatic.
However, most of the Blue's mileage enhancement features have been carried over to those other Elantra trims. As such, the fuel economy differences between them are negligible. Estimated mileage for the Elantra Blue is 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, and increase over the 24/33 achieved by the '09 base Elantra with manual. The auto-equipped GLS and SE now achieve 26/34, which is an improvement over last year's 25/33.
The Elantra Blue is now the cheapest car in its class, undercutting the Cobalt XFE while boasting standard features the Chevy doesn't offer like power windows and locks, and four-wheel disc brakes.
- Posted by
- James Riswick September 21, 2009, 8:43 AM
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- Automotive Consumer News, Hyundai
The only question I have is- where did they come up with the "Blue" designation? Green seems much more logical, if unattractive...and will the car only be available in the color "Blue"? Just wondering...