This is a hatchback version of the Elantra sedan offering a sportier design and more cargo space. EUROPEAN ROOTS Unlike the Elantra sedan which was designed mainly for the U.S. the Elantra GT was based on the European Hyundai i30. That's why it has a sportier suspension and a more refined feel. HIDDEN CARRGO FEATURES The rear seats don't just fold down--they also fold completely flat and there's an underfloor storage compartment in the trunk for extra hidden storage. DRIVER-SELECTABLE STEERING MODE It has three steering modes--Normal Comfort and Sport--letting drivers adjust steering feel based on preference. Most economy hatchbacks didn't have this feature at the time. MORE SPACE THAN YOU'D THINK Despite being compact it offers 51 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded--more than some small SUVs! BETTER POWER THAN RIVALS Its 2.0L engine (173 hp) had more power than competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla hatchbacks of the time. NO TURBO BUT QUICK Unlike the Veloster Turbo the Elantra GT didn't get a turbocharged engine but it was still fun to drive due to its lightweight chassis and sportier suspension. MPG TRICK Even though it had a decent 24 city/34 highway MPG some owners found that using cruise control and Eco mode could push it beyond 40 MPG on the highway under the right conditions. HIDDEN REAR CAMERA TRICK On models equipped with a backup camera the camera was hidden behind the Hyundai badge and it would only pop out when reversing to keep it from getting dirty. DISCONTINUED IN 2017 The Elantra GT was discontinued after the 2020 model year in the U.S. but it remained available in other markets as the Hyundai i30.