Manual Transmission Makes All The Difference
When equipped with the automatic transmission, this generation of Elantra is an excellent daily driver for the everyday commuter. Peppy enough to get out of its own way, comfortable enough to make a commute livable, and with standard maintenance it is a reliable and economical choice for any consumer.
When equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, however, the Elantra goes from an excellent commuter to a fun car. The close-ratio transmission is extremely smooth, and the throw is short but not too short, with the whole thing light enough to be shifted by a couple of fingertips, but not so light as to feel loose or flimsy. Despite some roughness at idle, the Nu engine becomes glass-smooth when power is applied, and it's easy to find yourself cruising past the speed limit without a second thought. This surprisingly quick acceleration is certainly helped by the car's relatively low curb weight, and that low weight also contributes to the car's nimble (but stable and communicative) handling characteristics.
All in all, the manual-transmission Elantra GLS provides a driving experience reminiscent of the iconic 90s sport-compact cars, while being wrapped in sheet metal that is both attractive and forgettable (the latter being a boon when you frequently find yourself jumping out ahead of traffic).
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