The 2016 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car with a price range of $14,532 to $18,180. Long-lasting engines and comfortable interior help it stand out from the crowd. It’s a good value for shoppers looking for a simple daily driver.
2016 Hyundai Elantra: Quick Overview
- New for 2016, Hyundai adds the Value Edition model, with more than $1,000 in upgrades compared to the SE, but only costs $550 more.
- Reliability ratings are above average according to J.D. Power with fewer problems than earlier model years.
- Two engines are available. Both are four-cylinders, and the 1.8L is the more fuel-efficient choice.
- Fuel economy is good for its class, ranking 7th out of 38 compact cars with a combined rating of up to 31 miles per gallon.
- Safety is above average for a compact car, getting five-stars in government crash tests.
- The 2016 Elantra ranks near the middle of its class based on owner reviews. It doesn’t have the latest technology, but is a good choice with its dependable powertrain. Check out CarGuru’s video review for a closer in-depth look at the sedan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2016 Hyundai Elantra Have?
The 2016 Hyundai Elantra has fewer problems than earlier years, including the problematic 2013 model. It has a similar number of complaints compared to other compact sedans. The 2016 Elantra problems include engine knock, airbags not deploying, and various electrical malfunctions.
Electrical problems are the most common, with owners complaining that the soy wire covering attracts rodents. There are also some reports of alternators failing.
Engines stalling while driving are also mentioned by owners. Sensor and computer issues are the most common source of the problem. Replacing the sensors costs about $800, and gets the car working again.
Steering problems are also listed, with owners saying the steering system locks up while driving. Replacing the power steering system will solve the problem, but it can be a costly solution for a car out of warranty.
There are no recalls on the 2016 Elantra, which is rare for a car its age.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2016 Hyundai Elantra is an average-price compact car, available from $14,532 to $18,180 depending on the model and mileage. When new, it had a retail price of $17,250 to $21,700. It depreciates at an average rate for its class, losing 47% of its value in the first five years.
- SE is the entry-level model with 15-inch steel wheels, power windows and door locks, cloth seating, USB and Aux connectivity, and a six-speaker stereo system.
- Value Edition is above it and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a blind spot mirror, backup camera, sunroof, and a 4.3-inch touchscreen display.
- Sport is next in the lineup with LED lighting, a 7-inch infotainment screen, 17-inch alloy wheels, a black grille, aluminum pedals, and projector headlights.
- Limited is the flagship model featuring leather seating, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and chrome accents.
How Long Will the 2016 Hyundai Elantra Last?
A properly maintained 2016 Hyundai Elantra will last about 250,000 miles, average for its class. Repair costs can get expensive if there are steering or electrical problems. Maintenance costs are average for a compact car. Repair Pal estimates them to be about $455 per year.
It is a very reliable car. The only problem I have had with the car, is it being so low to the ground. It seems to scratch up on a bunch of stuff.
It is reliable. There are no problems with it. I think it may just be due to the fact that I take good care of it.
Yes it is reliable - you do not need to worry about any major breakdowns. The worse you can have is a battery problem or your breaks but nothing that cannot be fixed within a week.
It is very reliable. It runs well and doesn't hasn't had problems since I have had it. Great on gas mileage.
Yes it is reliable and I have not had any problems since buying it, I have always been able to use the car problem-free whenever.
The car is very reliable. I did have an issue with the thermostat of my car that was covered by warranty that the dealership made sure to take care of within two days, but any issue I have ever had has been addressed and fixed extremely quickly.
Very reliable car. I have not had any problems with it so far since purchased two years ago. Love the car.
No it does not have any problems except it is a little to low to the ground it is a standard and automatic in one goes pretty fast and reliable getting place's.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology in the 2016 Elantra is below average for its age. It’s the final model year of the 5th generation. An updated version with new technology was released in 2017.
- Base technology includes a stereo system with 6-speakers, AM/FM/CD playback and Bluetooth & USB connectivity.
- Upgrades include a 4.3 inch touch screen on the value edition, and a seven-inch on the Sport and Limited models. There’s also an upgraded stereo available for higher-fidelity sound.
- For safety, it has airbags, antilock brakes, traction control and stability control. Options include a backup camera that is available on the Value Edition and higher models.
What Engine Options are Available?
Two engines are available in the 2016 Elantra, a 1.8L and 2.0L that are practical but not very powerful. Performance is weak for its class, going from 0 to 60 in 8.6 seconds with the upgraded engine.
- The base, and most efficient engine is a 1.8L four-cylinder with 143 horsepower.
- An upgraded 2.0L engine produces 173 horsepower.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Elantra?
The 2016 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car, similar in size to its competitors. Passenger room is acceptable, with good room in the front seats. The rear seats are cramped for adults, with limited headroom. It has above-average cargo space, with 14.8 cu. ft. of room in the trunk. More than enough room to fit three suitcases.
How Does the 2016 Hyundai Elantra Compare to Other Cars?
Owners rank the 2016 Hyundai Elantra 19th out of 38 compact cars, placing it in the middle of its group. At the top of the compact car class is the Volkswagen Beetle, which has more unique styling than the Hyundai. Pricing is similar, but the Beetle’s higher-end models are more expensive. The Beetle is a funner car to drive with a better suspension and more power. Where the Hyundai wins out is that it’s more practical with a refined interior, roomier, and has better technology. The Beetle is a very niche car targeting a particular buyer, and the Elantra is a better general purpose daily driver.
Another competitor is the Honda Civic, which is slightly more expensive than the Hyundai. Where the Civic wins out is with newer technology, better fuel economy, and a more comfortable interior. 2016 is the final year for the 5th generation of the Elantra, and the first model year for the 6th generation Civic. The new technology and upgraded interior make the Civic a better choice between the two cars since reliability is similar.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Hyundai Elantra a Good Car?
Based on 1,004 owner reviews and research from 13 automotive and government websites, yes, the 2016 Elantra is a good car. It improves on earlier model years with fewer problems and a nicer interior for its price. Where it loses some points is with outdated technology and underpowered engine choices. Overall, if you need a simple daily driver, the Elantra is a good choice.
