The 2011 Elantra is a great value, offering good technology and safety with a price range from $6,440 to $9,862. For 2011, Hyundai redesigned the entire car, improving its reliability and quality.
- Interior materials are better than other compact cars found at this price.
- Technology is good for a compact car, with navigation and a backup camera available.
- Passenger room is better than other small cars, with back seats that fit adults.
- There is a lot of road noise while driving.
- The engine feels weaker compared to other cars in its class.
- Exterior paint quality is below average, chipping easily.
2011 Hyundai Elantra: Quick Overview
- For the 2011 model year, the Elantra is completely redesigned with a new interior, exterior, and powertrain choices.
- Reliability ratings are average for a small car based on long-term ownership reviews.
- Only one engine is available. Power is average for its class, but not exciting to drive.
- The Elantra is an efficient compact car, and ranks 2nd out of 29 small cars for fuel economy, getting up to 32 miles per gallon combined.
- Safety is average in the Elantra, getting a 4-star rating in government crash tests.
- The Elantra ranks 17th out of 29 small cars based on owner reviews, putting it near the middle of its group. It offers all you really need in a daily driver, but it doesn’t stand out as a class leader.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Hyundai Elantra Have?
The 2011 Hyundai Elantra has an average number of problems for the 2010 through 2015 generation, and far less than the 2013 model.
Engine ticking sounds are the most common problem reported by owners. The noise can be as simple as valve springs, or as complex as rare crankshaft or piston problems which require an engine replacement. Although engine failures are possible, they are not as common as they were in earlier years.
Poor fuel economy is also reported by owners of the Elantra, Hyundai has issued a gas refund to original buyers due to inaccurate original fuel estimates.
Transmission problems are less common in the 2011 Elantra compared to the 2010, but they still exist. Shifting roughly between gears is a sign of transmission problems. It’s a good idea to pay close attention to how the vehicle shifts when you test drive one.
There are 7 recalls affecting the 2011 Elantra, average for its age. Recalls cover the headliner, stop lamp switch, front springs, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and the 12V accessory outlet. The most serious item covered is the front springs, if one fractures it can increase the risk of an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2011 Hyundai Elantra offers something for everyone in two distinct styles. The 2011 Hyundai Elantra is an average priced compact car, available from $6,440 to $9,862 depending on the mileage and model. When new, it had a retail price of $14,945 to $20,195. It depreciates at the usual rate for its class, losing 47% of its value in the first 5 years.
- GLS is the base model. Standard features include 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, heated and power mirrors, a 6-speaker stereo system with CD, Satellite Radio, and USB connectivity.
- LTD is the flagship model. Amenities include 17-Inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, a power sunroof, and push button ignition. Options include heated rear seats, an upgraded stereo system, and DVD-based navigation.
How Long Will the 2011 Hyundai Elantra Last?
Based on ownership data, we can estimate that a 2011 Hyundai Elantra will last over 200,000 miles, which is average for its class. Repair Pal estimates it will cost $475 per year to maintain, which is also in line with what we expect for a compact car.
It is a very reliable car. It has been good to me for 8 years. The only problem I have had constant since I first purchased it is with the tires. It didn't come with a spare, which I was not told about upon purchase, the low tire pressure light is constantly coming on, even when there are 4 brand new tires on and I have to replace all 4 tires at least once a year!
It is reliable. I have had it for 9 years now and no issues! Thankfully I have never had an accident with the Elantra.
It is reliable it does not have any problems other than the steering wheel makes a clicking noise that I believe the bolt just needs to be tightened.
The vehicle is very reliable as long as it is kept up with basic maintenance. It has a nice sunroof. GPS capable and trunk space deep and dependable.
I haven't dealt with more than a couple little manufacturer recalls. The tan cloth seats do stain easily. I have driven this car a lot and it seems to be better for long range trips.
This vehicle does not appear to have any major issues. I have not had to take it to a mechanic for any major repairs in the time I have had it.
It has been super reliable! I have had it for about two years now and haven't had any major issues. I even feel comfortable letting my teenage daughter learn to drive with it!
I have found it to be very reliable. I have had the car since 2010, put 105,000 miles on it and have never been stranded or broken down. I have invested only routine maintenance and only problem is that the gas door lever doesn't always release properly.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is good in the 2011 Elantra. It has more available than most competitors, especially at its price point.
- Standard technology includes a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 and USB connectivity.
- Upgrades include a 7-inch infotainment screen with Bluetooth connectivity, and a more powerful stereo system.
- For safety, the Elantra has 6 airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control is standard. Optional is a backup camera that is included with the navigation system.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is a weak spot for the Elantra since it’s a compact car built for commuting, not going to the track. It goes from 0 to 60 in 9.1 seconds, which is slow for its class. Only one engine is available, a 1.8L 4-cylinder producing 148 horsepower. 1.8L inline-four is powerful, but powertrain reliability is inconsistent.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Elantra?
The 2011 Elantra is similar in size to other compact cars on the market, but it has a spacious interior. Second row legroom is adequate for an adult, but it may be small if you plan on taking a long road trip. The Elantra also has 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, slightly above average for its class.
How Does the 2011 Hyundai Elantra Compare to Other Cars?
Based on owner reviews, the Elantra ties for 17th place, out of 29 compact cars. One of the strongest competitors in its class is the Volkswagen Golf, which has more power and is more fuel efficient than the Elantra. The Hyundai has a better interior with more up-to-date technology, and a lower cost of ownership. The two cars are similar, but the Elantra is the better value.
Another rival is the Toyota Corolla, which scores better in long-term reliability, and overall build quality. Technology, ride quality, and passenger room is better in the Elantra, though, since it is less stripped-down compared to the Corolla. Both are good small cars, but between the two the Toyota wins simply because it’s going to be cheaper to own, and has fewer reported problems.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Hyundai Elantra a Good Car?
Based on our research and ownership information, we say yes, the 2011 Hyundai Elantra is a good car. The 2011 Elantra fixes problems found on earlier model years. It scores well in safety tests and it has a better interior than other budget-friendly cars. Where it loses is power since the engine is weak and visibility is limited with the new curved design. Overall, the Elantra is a good vehicle to test drive if you want an affordable compact car.