Compact Hyundai Elantra sedan excels in hybrid mode

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- There's a lot to like about the Hyundai Elantra.

I should know.  I've driven quite a few of them over the years.

Consider the positives: compact size, affordability (that rare view of a sub-$30,000 starting price always prompts a double-take), good safety ratings, excellent reliability, top-tier warranties and a surprising number of standard features one does not expect in the affordable compact segment.

So, what could be better for the 2023 model year?  Fuel mileage ratings of 49 miles per gallon in the city and 52 mpg on the highway.

Those are the numbers standing out in the recently tested 2023 Hyundai Elantra HEV Limited.

Sure, I like driving the car.  But that smile on my face also was influenced by the knowledge that I would be blowing past gas stations for some time to come.

Even with the hybrid technology, the starting price comes in at $29,000 ... a head-turner on its own.

But wait, there's much, much more.

Power comes from a 1.6-liter GDI Atkinson Cycle four-cylinder engine/hybrid system with a combined engine/electric motor output of 139 horsepower.  That's not a giant number, but it's entirely sufficient for this particular model.

I was scooting the tester around with ease and enthusiasm. At no point did I feel like begging for more power.  Steering was nicely firm.  Interior comfort in the cockpit was good.  The back seat is a tight fit for large adults, but you can say that about most in the compact sedan class.

Per usual, this Hyundai won a bunch of max five-star ratings in federal government crash tests, including a solid five in the overall score.

The tester lived up to Hyundai's reputation for putting a lot into even its more-affordable models.

The list included heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, a wireless charging pad, collision-avoidance assist, LEDs front and rear, ventilated front seats and a power sunroof.

Simply said, buyers of this hybrid Elantra get a lot for their money, with long runs between gas station stops as an extra bonus.