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- Most significant changes: There's a new SEL trim level, the Sport model adds a power sunroof and safety features, and trims with Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system get three years of service.
- Price change: Most trim levels have lower starting prices. The SE is lower by $200, the Value Edition by $400, the Eco by $100 and the Limited by $250. The Sport version, though, is $150 higher. The destination charge, at $885, is $50 higher for all models.
- On sale: Now
- Which should you buy, 2017 or 2018? The 2018. Slightly lower prices for most models and higher resale value for the newer model year tips the scale in favor of the 2018 version.
Hyundai redesigned the Elantra compact sedan last year and expands the lineup for 2018 by adding a new SEL trim level, which is expected to be the volume seller.
Related: 5 Differences: 2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport Vs. 2017 Honda Civic Si
The SEL slots above the SE trim and includes the contents of the Popular Equipment Package, which was an $800 option on the SE last year (the package is not available for the 2018 SE). SEL features include 16-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, automatic headlights, a 7-inch-display audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, a backup camera, and blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist.
The 2018 Elantra sedan is offered in six trim levels: SE, SEL, Value Edition, Eco, Limited and Sport. Besides a sunroof, the Sport model gains blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist as standard. Hyundai also sells the Elantra GT hatchback, which has been redesigned for 2018.
Most Elantra sedans come with a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, but a manual transmission is available. The Eco version uses a 128-hp, turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Sport model has a 201-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that works with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system is standard on the Limited trim level and optional on the Sport, and it now comes with a suite of services for three years; previously, owners received one year of free Connected Care services and three months of free Remote and Guidance services, with a monthly subscription fee of $99 after the trial period. In addition, navigation-equipped cars will get three years of free map updates that can be downloaded from Hyundai's website.
Passenger car sales continue to decline as new-car shoppers favor SUVs, but the Elantra has seen a 4.1 percent sales increase in the first half of this year thanks in part to heavy incentives. Expect continued incentive spending and deals as Hyundai tries to woo shoppers.
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