2017 Hyundai Elantra SE

Ah, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra. Now, here we have a car that embodies a kind of quiet competence, a bit like a dependable pair of shoes that never let you down. At first glance, it’s a fairly unassuming saloon. It’s not shouting for attention with overly aggressive lines or flamboyant design flourishes. Instead, it has this understated, almost humble, demeanor that grows on you the longer you spend with it. It’s a car designed for people who appreciate practicality, not showmanship. Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that’s remarkably well thought out. Everything is where you expect it to be, and the materials, while not luxurious, are solid and feel built to last. Hyundai has clearly focused on comfort and usability here. The seats are supportive without being overly firm, and the controls are pleasantly tactile. It’s a bit like stepping into a very well-organized office – calm, efficient, and utterly unfussy. Now, the driving experience. It’s powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which is entirely adequate for the kind of motoring most of us actually do. No, it won’t give you the neck-snapping acceleration of a sports car, but that’s not really the point, is it? The Elantra is smooth, composed, and wonderfully easy to drive. There’s something quite refreshing about how it just gets on with the job, quietly and without any drama. It’s as if the car is saying, “I’ve got this, don’t worry.” And let’s not forget about the ride quality. The suspension is finely tuned to soak up the bumps and imperfections of the road, meaning your journeys are surprisingly comfortable. Whether you’re on a long motorway run or just popping to the shops, the Elantra glides along with a reassuring sense of calm. It’s not trying to be exciting, it’s trying to make your life easier – and it does that beautifully. What’s more, it’s surprisingly spacious. Rear passengers will find plenty of legroom, and the boot is ample enough for everything from suitcases to the weekly shop. It’s a car that’s been designed with real-world practicality in mind, and in that sense, it excels. In summary, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra is a masterclass in thoughtful, sensible motoring. It’s comfortable, dependable, and utterly unpretentious. It doesn’t scream for attention, but it doesn’t need to. It’s the kind of car you’ll look back on fondly after years of trouble-free service, thinking, “Yes, that was a good one.” Price excludes $399 processing fees