The Hyundai Elantra was completely redesigned from headlight to taillight last year. The 2008 Elantra gets even better with the addition of electronic stability control, brake assist and a tire-pressure monitoring system as standard, along with new option packages. For 2008, the two trim levels have also been refined and simplified to better meet customer needs. The Hyundai Elantra is now considered a midsize sedan by the EPA and is available in GLS and SE trim levels. (The top-of-the-line Limited model has been replaced by the SE with an optional premium and leather package.)

Hyundai's advanced 2.0-liter, inline, four-cylinder engine powers the Elantra. This 16-valve power plant employs dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) for broad power spread, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. All trims can be teamed with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The ULEV variation produces 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, and 136 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm. The PZEV engines are available only with a four-speed automatic transmission, and produce 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, and 133 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm. In California, the Elantra automatic is certified as a partial zero emissions vehicles (PZEV) and rated for 132 horsepower. Fuel economy for 2008 is 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Ride quality is smooth and stable, even at high speeds. Wind or road noise is minimal. The Elantra corners well, offering a confident grip with responsive steering.

Chrome headlight bezels and grille bars are standard on the Hyundai Elantra. The car has sculpted surfaces, a rising beltline and an expressive body-side character line shared with other Hyundai models. The body-color door handles and mirrors are neatly integrated. The interior has thoughtful design touches, and boasts more overall space than its close rivals; the rear seat is particularly comfortable for adults thanks to the generous legroom. The base GLS is equipped with keyless entry, tilt steering wheel, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, full power accessories and 15-inch steel wheels. The GLS popular equipment package adds a six-speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player and auxiliary audio jack, air conditioning, cruise control, fog lights and satellite radio. The SE adds a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, a trip computer and 16-inch alloy wheels. The SE premium package has heated seats, leather upholstery and a sunroof (a stand-alone option on the GLS).

For 2008 the Hyundai Elantra comes standard with electronic stability control, brake assist and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The GLS and SE trims each have six standard air bags, including two advanced front air bags, two front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, and two side curtain air bags protecting front- and rear-seat outboard passengers. The 2008 Elantra earned the top five-star rating in frontal-impact collision protection in crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA); and a four-star rating for side collisions. In frontal offset tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also it received the highest rating.