Scotty, does a Hyundai Elantra make a good first car? Does the top-of-the-line trim have good tech? Are they high-quality or I would I just get a Corolla or a Mazda3 instead?
NO. A HARDCORE NO!!
My father-in-law just had his 2017 Elantra engine blown up. It's not even high mileage, less than 50k miles.
If you want more power, late model Mazda 3 is a good one, if you want more power. Late Corolla is also good, but I would recommend 1.8L.
I personally did some research on Hyundai/Kai engine. The used engines are very expensive due to their engine problem and dealer trying to find parts for replacement. You won't see it happen on Toyota/Honda/Mazda, or even VW.
No, absolutely not! Definitely look at a Corolla, Civic, or Mazda3 instead.
Due to poor Hyundai quality (esp. if you plan to keep long term), we are currently not recommending any Hyundai Motor Group products.
Also, the 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty usually applies to the original owner. Hyundai service and standing by their products is also lacking, and more times than not they have tried to get out of a warranty claim (some of my family, co-workers who had Hyundai products had to go through hell, and they ended getting rid of their vehicles and leaving the Hyundai brand altogether). If there was any doubt, see below and do a search on this forum and you‘ll see the constant barrage of quality issues.
https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/qa/why-all-the-hyundai-hate/
In a word: NO.
In a nutshell NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.
Go for the Mazda3 or the Corolla. The civic is also a great choice!
Hyundai is never a good car
Add Kia to that list.