Unveiling the ultimate duel: hyundai elantra preferred vs ultimate

The Hyundai Elantra has long been a popular choice among compact sedan enthusiasts, offering a blend of style, functionality, and affordability. With its wide range of trim levels, the Elantra provides options to suit every need and budget. Two of the top trims, the Preferred and Ultimate, offer a comprehensive list of features and amenities, making the choice between them a matter of personal preference and budget constraints. In this detailed comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Hyundai Elantra Preferred and Ultimate trims to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The Hyundai Elantra Preferred and Ultimate share the same sleek and aerodynamic exterior design. However, the Ultimate trim features a few exclusive styling enhancements that set it apart from the Preferred. These include:

• 18-inch alloy wheels: The Ultimate trim comes with larger and more stylish 18-inch alloy wheels, enhancing the car’s overall stance and sporty appeal.
• LED headlights with Dynamic Bending Light: The Ultimate trim boasts advanced LED headlights with Dynamic Bending Light technology, providing superior nighttime visibility and illuminating curves more effectively.
• Black exterior accents: The Ultimate trim features black exterior accents on the grille, side mirrors, and window trim, adding a touch of sophistication and sportiness to the car’s exterior.

Interior Features and Technology

Inside, the Hyundai Elantra Preferred and Ultimate trims offer a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. Both trims come standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system. However, the Ultimate trim adds a few notable upgrades:

• Leather-trimmed seats: The Ultimate trim pampers passengers with leather-trimmed seats, providing a more luxurious and upscale feel to the interior.
• Heated and ventilated front seats: For added comfort, the Ultimate trim offers heated and ventilated front seats, allowing occupants to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
• Bose premium audio system: Audiophiles will appreciate the upgraded Bose premium audio system in the Ultimate trim, delivering an immersive and high-quality sound experience.
• Panoramic sunroof: The Ultimate trim features a panoramic sunroof, flooding the cabin with natural light and creating a more spacious and airy atmosphere.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

When it comes to safety, both the Hyundai Elantra Preferred and Ultimate trims provide a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and safety features. These include:

• Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection: This system helps prevent accidents by alerting the driver and automatically braking if a potential collision is detected.
• Lane-keeping assist: This feature helps keep the car centered in its lane, reducing the risk of drifting.
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert: This system warns the driver of vehicles in their blind spots and alerts them to cross-traffic when reversing.

The Ultimate trim adds a few additional safety features:

• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go: This system maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
• Highway Driving Assist: This semi-autonomous driving system combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist, allowing the car to drive itself in certain conditions.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Both the Hyundai Elantra Preferred and Ultimate trims are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The Preferred trim comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the Ultimate trim offers the option of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for improved fuel economy.

In terms of fuel economy, the Hyundai Elantra Preferred with the six-speed automatic transmission achieves an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. The Elantra Ultimate with the CVT gets slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 35 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway.

Price and Value

The Hyundai Elantra Preferred has a starting price of $22,950, while the Elantra Ultimate starts at $27,950. The price difference of $5,000 is significant, so it’s important to carefully consider the additional features and amenities offered by the Ultimate trim before making a decision.

Which Trim is Right for You?

The choice between the Hyundai Elantra Preferred and Ultimate trims ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you’re looking for a well-equipped and affordable compact sedan with a comfortable interior and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Elantra Preferred is a great choice. However, if you’re willing to spend a little extra for added luxury, convenience, and advanced safety features, the Elantra Ultimate is worth considering.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re looking for alternatives to the Hyundai Elantra Preferred and Ultimate trims, here are a few options to consider:

• Honda Civic EX: The Honda Civic EX is a well-rounded compact sedan that offers a similar level of features and performance to the Elantra Preferred, but with a slightly higher price tag.
• Toyota Corolla XSE: The Toyota Corolla XSE is another excellent choice, offering a spacious interior, impressive fuel economy, and a sporty driving experience.
• Kia Forte GT: If you’re looking for a more performance-oriented compact sedan, the Kia Forte GT is a great option, with a powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and a sport-tuned suspension.

Popular Questions

Q: Which trim has leather seats?
A: The Ultimate trim features leather-trimmed seats.

Q: Does the Ultimate trim have a sunroof?
A: Yes, the Ultimate trim comes with a panoramic sunroof.

Q: Which trim offers adaptive cruise control?
A: The Ultimate trim offers adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go.

Q: What is the difference in fuel economy between the Preferred and Ultimate trims?
A: The Ultimate trim with the CVT gets slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 35 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which trim is the best value for money?
A: The Elantra Preferred offers a great value for money, providing a comprehensive list of features at an affordable price. However, if you’re willing to spend a little extra, the Elantra Ultimate offers additional luxury, convenience, and safety features that may be worth the investment.