I’ve always liked this generation of the Hyundai Elantra. Since it was launched in 2011, it has managed to remain current over the years with a youthful look and a features list that belies its sticker price.

That being said, it is getting a bit long in the tooth in terms of design. However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that this little hatchback has so much going for it from the way it drives to the amenities packed inside.

I still like it alottle (a little bit a lot)

The last time I got behind the wheel of a Hyundai Elantra was when I drove the 2014 Elantra Limited sedan. So, the same trim level as this latest test vehicle, but with a trunk instead of a hatch. I liked it then, and I like it now (since not much has changed).

I really do prefer the hatchback, though. There’s something about the lines that really sets it apart. With fluid fender arches that tie in beautifully with the shoulder line and stretch back to the rear where the car showcases a youthful, sporty nature, it is still great to look at.

Inside, the fluid, modern, and youthful look continues. For a vehicle in this price range, I guarantee you’ll be shocked by the level of design and quality of materials used in the GT Limited. Symmetrical in look, the centre stack is supremely well laid out, and may be one of my favourites in the industry. Buttons are easily at hand, and the entertainment system is definitely one of my favourites with a quick response.

One thing I really like in the Hyundai Elantra (and every other Hyundai for that matter) is the fact that, when flipping t hrough songs on satellite radio, the titles currently playing are displayed immediately (without having to select the station). There are few, if any, other HMI systems that function that way. It’s a small detail, but I love it.

Features like heated front seats, Bluetooth, keyless start/stop and entry, and even a cooled glove box (great for road trips!) set the Hyundai Elantra GT apart and really make you take a second look when you think about the price you pay for such amenities (MSRP of $27,349 for the GT Limited). By the way, the lineup starts at $18,549 for the L with a manual transmission.

Then there’s the interior space – there’s so much of it! My son’s baby seat fit beautifully in the back, and the front passenger had plenty of room ahead without having Owen’s feet in their back the entire ride. Cargo room, which is well over 600 litres, is fantastic. That’s the real beauty of a hatchback, and one of the main reasons I love them so much.

The 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT Limited has the practicality box checked, for sure.

The drive is as well laid out as the interior

The Elantra GT comes with the same engine as the rest of the lineup: a 2.0L 4-cylinder mill that produces 173 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque. My particular tester came equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission, but there is an available 6-speed manual as well. While I always prefer to row my own gears, the SHIFTRONIC is actually quite good, and features a manual shift mode, too.

Power is sent to the front wheels, and thanks to the vehicle’s refined chassis there’s limited body roll, even if you push it a bit in corners. A Driver Selectable Steering Mode (DSSM) allows you to choose between Normal, Comfort, and Sport to customize the control and feel of your steering. It might seem gimmicky (and kind of is), but it’s an interesting feature nonetheless.

This isn’t a highly powerful hatchback, however, it’s plenty powerful for city life and day-to-day activities, as well as merging onto the highway and other instances where a bit of extra oomph is needed.

Still a viable choice

Really, the only foible the Elantra GT Limited suffers from right now is its “outdated” design, which isn’t really that outdated at all. Personally, I can’t wait to see what they do with it next. Otherwise, this Korean is an excellent choice for those in the market for a perfect little commuter that’ll get them from point A to point B without costing a fortune in fuel while still being fun to drive and offering a great look inside and out, as well.

Road Tests and Reviews Experts 1 road test Consumers