The 2020 Hyundai Elantra SEL is a compact sedan designed for drivers who want reliability, efficiency, and modern safety features without paying a premium price. With just under 70,000 miles, this Elantra falls into a normal used-car range and can still provide many years of dependable service if properly maintained.
The SEL trim is one of the most popular versions because it balances cost and comfort better than the base model while avoiding the higher price of fully loaded trims.
Engine, Transmission & Performance
Under the hood is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower, paired with Hyundai's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT).
Acceleration is adequate for daily driving, commuting, and highway merging.
The IVT prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth operation, though it can feel less responsive than a traditional automatic when accelerating hard.
This is not a sporty car, but it performs consistently and predictably.
Fuel Economy: Expect around 30-34 MPG combined, making it economical for both city and highway driving.
Ride Quality & Driving Experience
The Elantra SEL is tuned for comfort:
Suspension absorbs bumps well on most road surfaces
Light steering makes parking and city driving easy
Stable and confident at highway speeds
Some road and wind noise are noticeable, especially compared to higher-end sedans, but overall ride comfort is solid for the class.
Interior Comfort & Space
The interior focuses on practicality and ease of use.
Cloth seats are comfortable for short and long drives, though lumbar support is average.
Front-seat space is good; rear-seat room is adequate for adults.
Trunk space is competitive for a compact sedan and works well for groceries or luggage.
Materials are durable rather than luxurious, which suits daily use and long-term ownership.
Technology & Convenience Features
The SEL trim includes a good selection of tech:
7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Bluetooth connectivity
USB ports
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Keyless entry with push-button start (when equipped)
Controls are simple and intuitive, with physical buttons that many drivers prefer over touch-only systems.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety is one of the Elantras strongest points.
Standard or commonly equipped features include:
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
Lane-keeping assist
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Driver attention warning
Crash-test ratings are strong for the class, making this a solid option for families, commuters, and new drivers.
