The new 2022 Hyundai Elantra is a stunning combination of futuristic style and affordability. Its 8.8/10 rating places it third on Motor Trend‘s compact car rankings, making it a tough competitor for new cars such as the Volkswagen Jetta, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, and Toyota Corolla. So, which trim level of the 2022 Hyundai Elantra is the best?

2022 Hyundai Elantra pricing and available trim levels

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra is available in 5 trim levels: SE, SEL, Limited, N Line, and the powerful Elantra N model.

Edmunds reports the MSRP for the base SE trim is $20,995, the popular SEL trim is $22,245, and the Limited is $26,745. The SE, SEL, and Limited trims have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower.

Meanwhile, the N-Line trim with a starting MSRP of $26,495 comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 201 horsepower in addition to the following added performance features:

• Choice of a six-speed manual transmission or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
• 18-inch performance wheels
• Sport-tuned suspension
• Sport styling accents on the exterior
• Combined leather and cloth seats

The Hyundai Elantra N model retails for $34,445 and is similar to the Limited but includes further performance and styling enhancements such as:

• A 276-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine
• Choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
• 19-inch high-performance wheels
• Information and entertainment system with a 10.25-inch screen

Critics believe that the SEL trim offers the best overall value

According to Car and Driver, the midrange Hyundai Elantra SEL trim appears to be the favorite among car critics since it offers the best balance of price and features. The Elantra’s SEL trim level has dark chrome grilles, heated side mirrors with turn-signal indicators, and chrome window trim as optional extras. Active safety features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction-Turn Detection, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go are also available. 

The Elantra SEL trim also has a hands-free smart trunk release as standard, while the SE trim does not. Having many of the same features and options as the more expensive Limited trim is undoubtedly a plus for consumers shopping for an affordable new car.

Additionally, the new Hyundai Elantra gives both drivers and passengers peace of mind with the following safety features:

• Safe Exit Warning Rear Occupant Alert
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Following Assist
• High Beam Assist
• Driver Attention Warning
• Highway Driving Assist
• Parking Distance Warning-Reverse
• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist-Reverse

It is estimated that the Hyundai Elantra SEL will get fewer miles per gallon than its SE counterpart but still achieve a respectable 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. 

What options are available for the Hyundai Elantra SEL trim level?

The Hyundai Elantra SEL convenience package is the way to go for high-end practicality. It has an array of extra features compared to the SE base trim and some premium options that come standard with the Limited trim. The package offers a variety of standard features, including a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, power sunroof, wireless charging pad, an eight-speaker Bose premium sound system, and heated front seats.

With its cutting-edge design and smooth ride, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra is a great car to drive. The SEL trim level is an upgrade from the base SE and provides many of the same features as the more expensive Limited trim but at a lower price. Critics seem to agree the SEL trim level is the best of both worlds.