Hyundai Elantra GT research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Elantra GT is the hatchback version of Hyundai's compact, based on the European i30. It offers more cargo flexibility than the sedan and a slightly sportier feel. 2014-2017 cars use a 173-hp 2.0L; the redesigned 2018-2020 car adds a standard touchscreen with smartphone integration and a 201-hp turbo GT Sport / N Line that is a budget alternative to a VW GTI. It was discontinued after 2020.
Model years covered: 2013–2020. The Elantra GT was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2020 model year; there is no 2021 or later U.S. Elantra GT, and no Elantra GT before 2013 (the earlier hatch-style model was the Elantra Touring wagon).
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Hatchback cargo flexibility
- About 55 cu ft max cargo 2018 2020
- Sporty 201 hp n line option
- Manual transmission available
- Smartphone integration standard 2018 2020
- Good used value
Things to know before you buy
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
- 2016 driver airbag inflator recall
- Anti theft upgrade eligibility 2013 2020
- Fuel economy trails the sedan
- Dual clutch feel on turbo models
- Check turbo cars for modifications
- US elantra GT discontinued after 2020
Generations
Generation 1 (2013–2017)
The first U.S. Elantra GT (i30 'GD') replaced the Elantra Touring for 2013 with a 148-hp 1.8L; a 173-hp direct-injected 2.0L took over for 2014 along with selectable steering. Both use a 6-speed manual or automatic. It ran through 2017, a year past the sedan.
Buyer takeaway: Choose a 2014-2017 for the stronger 2.0L; the 2017 can have Apple CarPlay/Android Auto with the Tech package. Check the 2016 airbag inflator recall by VIN.
Generation 2 (2018–2020)
The redesigned 2018-2020 GT (i30 'PD') has a stiffer body, more cargo space and a standard 8-inch touchscreen. The base car uses a 161-hp 2.0L; the 2018 GT Sport and 2019-2020 N Line use a 201-hp 1.6L turbo with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch.
Buyer takeaway: The best all-round used GT; pick the N Line for driving fun and the base for simplicity.
Hyundai Elantra GT by model year
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT
The 2020 Elantra GT is the final U.S. model year. The base hatch uses a 161-hp 2.0L four and 6-speed automatic (about 25 city / 32 highway mpg); the N Line has the 201-hp 1.6L turbo with a manual or dual-clutch. Hyundai dropped the hatch after 2020, so used examples are the only option; it is a practical, well-equipped choice.
- Engines: 2.0 liter direct injection I4 161 hp 150 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic base; 6 speed manual or 7 speed dual clutch n line
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- Final US model year for the elantra GT
- Carryover base and n line
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Dual clutch low speed engagement if turbo; Turbo boost and intercooler hoses if turbo; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2019 Hyundai Elantra GT
For 2019 the GT Sport became the GT N Line, with sportier styling and the same 201-hp 1.6L turbo, offered with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch. The base GT keeps its 161-hp 2.0L, now with the 6-speed automatic, rated about 25 city / 32 highway mpg. The N Line is a fun, practical alternative to a VW GTI for less money.
- Engines: 2.0 liter direct injection I4 161 hp 150 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic base; 6 speed manual or 7 speed dual clutch n line
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- GT sport renamed n line
- N line adds sportier styling
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Dual clutch low speed engagement if turbo; Turbo boost and intercooler hoses if turbo; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2018 Hyundai Elantra GT
The 2018 Elantra GT was redesigned with a stiffer body, more cargo space (about 55 cu ft with the seats folded) and a standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base car has a 161-hp 2.0L four; the new GT Sport has a 201-hp 1.6L turbo with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch. Check the VIN for a panoramic sunroof recall.
- Engines: 2.0 liter direct injection I4 161 hp 150 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft GT sport
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic base; 7 speed dual clutch GT sport
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- All new second generation hatchback
- New 201 hp turbo GT sport
- 8 inch touchscreen with smartphone integration standard
- Stiffer body and more cargo space
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Dual clutch low speed engagement if turbo; Turbo boost and intercooler hoses if turbo; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Panoramic sunroof auto reverse recall completion.
2017 Hyundai Elantra GT
The 2017 Elantra GT is the last of the first generation, even though the Elantra sedan was redesigned that year. It keeps the 173-hp 2.0L four with a 6-speed manual or automatic (about 24 city / 32 highway mpg) and adds a Value Edition package plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the Tech package. It is a practical, value-priced hatch.
- Engines: 2.0 liter direct injection I4 173 hp 154 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- Value edition package added
- Apple carplay android auto with tech package
- Final year of the first US elantra GT
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2016 Hyundai Elantra GT
The 2016 Elantra GT carries over its 2.0L four (rated 166-173 hp depending on emissions version) and 6-speed manual or automatic, about 24 city / 32 highway mpg. Important: certain 2016 Elantra GTs are under a 2026 recall for a driver airbag inflator that may rupture; check remedy status by VIN with a Hyundai dealer before buying.
- Engines: 2.0 liter direct injection I4 166 to 173 hp
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- Carryover mechanicals
- Driver airbag inflator recall issued in 2026
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Driver airbag inflator recall status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2015 Hyundai Elantra GT
The 2015 Elantra GT carries over with the 173-hp 2.0L four and a 6-speed manual or automatic, rated about 24 city / 32-33 highway mpg. It is a roomy, versatile hatchback with a large cargo area and available panoramic sunroof. Buyers should favor cars with regular oil changes and confirm the anti-theft upgrade by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter direct injection I4 173 hp 154 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- Carryover with minor equipment changes
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2014 Hyundai Elantra GT
For 2014 the Elantra GT got a stronger 173-hp 2.0L direct-injected four in place of the 1.8L, making it noticeably quicker, along with selectable steering modes and new taillights. A 6-speed manual or automatic is offered, rated about 24 city / 33-34 highway mpg. Certain 2013-2014 cars have a brake-pedal stopper pad recall, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter direct injection I4 173 hp 154 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- 173 hp 2.0 liter replaces the 1.8 liter
- Driver selectable steering modes
- New taillights and updated audio
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Brake pedal stopper pad recall completion; Automatic transmission shift quality; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2013 Hyundai Elantra GT
The 2013 Elantra GT was a new 5-door hatchback, the U.S. version of Hyundai's European i30, replacing the Elantra Touring wagon. It uses the sedan's 148-hp 1.8L four with a 6-speed manual or automatic, rated about 26-27 city / 37 highway mpg, and offers more cargo flexibility and a sportier suspension than the sedan. Check the VIN for the brake-pedal stopper pad recall and the anti-theft upgrade.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 148 hp 131 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- New model replacing the elantra touring wagon
- US version of the european i30
- 148 hp 1.8 liter shared with the sedan
- Panoramic sunroof available
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Brake pedal stopper pad recall completion; Brake lights turn off when pedal released; Automatic transmission shift quality; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Rear hatch struts and latch; Panoramic sunroof operation if equipped; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- Driver Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall (2016) (2016)
NHTSA recall 26V307 (2026) covers certain 2016 Elantra GTs (and 2015-2016 Elantra sedans): the driver's airbag inflator may rupture when it deploys. Interim owner letters were mailed in July 2026, with the final remedy (inspection and inflator replacement) to follow. Remedy availability may be limited.
What to do: On a 2016 Elantra GT, check this recall by VIN and ask a Hyundai dealer about remedy timing. - Anti-Theft Software Upgrade (2013-2020 Key-Start Cars) (2013–2020)
Key-start Hyundais without an engine immobilizer were targeted by thieves. Hyundai offers a free anti-theft software upgrade for eligible 2013-2020 Elantra GTs and a free steering-wheel lock where the software cannot be installed. Push-button-start cars are generally not affected; eligibility is VIN-specific.
What to do: Check the VIN on Hyundai's anti-theft site and get the free upgrade if needed. - Brake-Pedal Stopper Pad Recall (2013-2014) (2013–2014)
Recall 17V769 (expanding 16V574) covers certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedans, coupes and GTs. The brake-pedal stopper pad can deteriorate so the brake lights stay on, the shifter can leave Park without pressing the brake, or the brake-override feature activates. Dealers replace the pad free.
What to do: Confirm the recall by VIN and check that the brake lights go off when the pedal is released. - Panoramic Sunroof Auto-Reverse Recall (2018) (2018)
Recall 18V891 covers certain 2018 Elantra GTs whose panoramic sunroof motor may be programmed incorrectly, so the roof may not detect an obstacle and reverse while closing. Dealers reprogram the motor free.
What to do: On a 2018 GT with the panoramic roof, confirm the recall by VIN. - Turbo and Dual-Clutch Care on GT Sport / N Line (2018-2020) (2018–2020)
The 201-hp GT Sport and N Line use a 1.6L turbo, available with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Dual-clutch units can feel hesitant or jerky at very low speeds, and turbo engines reward on-time oil changes. Sporty cars may also have been modified or driven hard.
What to do: Test drive in traffic and check service records and modifications on a turbo GT. - 2.0L Direct-Injection Engine Maintenance (2014–2020)
From 2014 the Elantra GT uses a direct-injected 2.0L four. Like other direct-injection engines it benefits from on-time oil changes; neglected engines can show oil consumption, rough idle or carbon buildup.
What to do: Favor GTs with documented oil changes. - Elantra GT vs. Elantra Sedan, Touring and Engines (2013–2020)
The Elantra GT is the 5-door hatchback (the European i30), separate from the Elantra sedan and the older Elantra Touring wagon. Engines: 1.8L (2013), 173-hp 2.0L (2014-2017), 161-hp 2.0L (2018-2020) and a 201-hp 1.6L turbo in the 2018 GT Sport and 2019-2020 N Line. Some recalls list the GT under the Elantra name, so always run the VIN.
What to do: Confirm the year, engine and transmission before comparing prices.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, equipment, and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies. Some recalls list the GT under the Elantra name; also check anti-theft software eligibility.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Volkswagen Golf
- Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback
- Honda Civic Hatchback
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback
- Kia Forte5
- Ford Focus
- Subaru Impreza
- Volkswagen GTI
- Hyundai Elantra
- Hyundai Veloster
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Hyundai Elantra GT?
- What engine does this Elantra GT have?
- What is the Elantra GT N Line?
- How much cargo space does the Elantra GT have?
- Is the 2016 Elantra GT airbag recall fixed on this car?
- Does this Elantra GT need the anti-theft software upgrade?
- What should I inspect on a used Elantra GT?
- How is the Elantra GT different from the Elantra sedan?
- Why was the Elantra GT discontinued?
- What similar hatchbacks should I consider?