Hyundai returns the 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (HEV) to showrooms unchanged from last year. This HEV’s trim-level lineup consists of the Blue and the Limited Hybrid. In terms of content, the Blue grade mimics the gas-fueled SEL. The Limited Hybrid is the HEV version of the gas-fueled Limited trim.
What separates the HEV trims from the standard Elantra is the powertrain. 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine teams with an electric motor to produce a combined 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) funnels engine output to the front wheels.
In the Blue, the HEV powertrain delivers EPA-rated fuel economy of 53 mpg in the city, 56 mpg on the highway, and 54 mpg in combined driving. Mileage in the Limited is impressive but not quite as good as the Blue. The Limited’s numbers are 49 mpg/52 mpg/50 mpg.
Generally, we like the Elantra for its stylish exterior, roomy cabin, impressive array of safety technologies, and strong powertrain warranty.
Seating five, the Elantra HEV offers bucket seats up front and a folding bench seat in the rear. In the Blue, it’s a solid bench. In the Limited HEV, it’s a 60/40 split backseat.
With the Elantra HEV, Hyundai competes with the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Toyota Camry Hybrid.
2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Blue (starting at $23,438)
The Blue grade is well-stocked with content because it follows the SEL’s playbook. Therefore, it provides 16-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off projector headlights, cruise control, and a hands-free power trunk lid. Other content includes remote keyless entry, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, hill-start assist, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Hyundai also includes a 4.2-inch color cluster display, two USB ports, and a 12-volt power port.
An 8-inch touchscreen provides the foundation for the infotainment array that also adds a 6-speaker audio system and Bluetooth. Wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and satellite-radio capability round out the entertainment mix.
Blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking are just the tip of the safety-technology iceberg. Also included are Safe Exit Warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Driver-attention warning and high-beam assist are standard, too.
Hyundai doesn’t offer any factory-installed options on either HEV trim.
Adding the $1,045 destination fee to the Blue base price brings the total to $24,483. With no money down, financing for 60 months at 3% interest works out to about $440 per month. See 2023 Hyundai Elantra Blue models for sale
2023 Hyundai Elantra Blue includes:
Hybrid powertrain – A 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine conspires with an electric motor to produce 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed DCT delivers all that power to the front wheels.
Proximity keyless entry – If the key fob is on your person, the doors automatically unlock when you touch the door handle. Push-button start pairs with keyless entry.
Suite of driver aids – Includes forward-collision warning with emergency braking, blind-spot warning, lane-changing assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and high-beam assist.
2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Limited (starting at $29,000)
Building on the Blue, the Limited HEV adds an advanced forward-collision system with Junction-Turning Detection and rear-park assist with reverse automatic braking. Hyundai also includes adaptive cruise control and its Highway Drive Assist. This semi-autonomous system can steer, brake, and accelerate the vehicle under certain conditions.
Other additions to the Blue content are 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a sunroof, and heated outboard mirrors with integrated turn signals. Leather seating, a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, and heated/ventilated front seats are standard, too. Hyundai also tosses in a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
A 10.25-inch color LCD gauge cluster keeps the driver informed. Wireless phone charging, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and Hyundai Digital Key are also included. Pumping up the infotainment system are a 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, voice recognition, and an 8-speaker Bose audio system.
For whatever reason, the Limited HEV replaces the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with wired versions.
Adding the destination fee to the Limited HEV base price totals $30,045. Financing for 60 months at 3% interest with no money down works out to a monthly payment of about $540. See 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Limited models for sale
2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Limited includes:
Digital key – Hyundai Digital Key allows you to access and start your Elantra with your smartphone.
Junction-Turning Detection – When making a left-hand turn at an intersection, this system detects oncoming vehicles, issues a warning, and even provides braking assistance.
Adaptive cruise control – Once you have engaged the system and set the speed, the system will maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, braking and accelerating as needed.
