Everyone wants a feature-packed car, but no one wants to pay an arm and a leg to get one. Thankfully, there are some fantastic value buys on the market, such as the 2021 Hyundai Elantra.

The 2021 Elantra has a starting MSRP of just $19,650, which vastly undercuts its rivals like the Honda Civic. Plus, the Elantra beats the Civic in categories other than affordability, as it also saves drivers money in the long run with its excellent gas mileage and incredible warranty.

However, we know people don’t get excited about warranties and pinching pennies. So, let’s examine the features of the 2021 Hyundai Elantra. You’d be surprised just how much Hyundai packed into the lower-level trims of the compact car.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra has cutting-edge technology in spades

Hyundai is providing drivers a whole lot of innovative features on the base model 2021 Hyundai Elantra. The Elantra SE now comes with an eight-inch touchscreen display to go along with its infotainment system. Plus, it is compatible with the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to leave their chords at home. 

In comparison, the 2020 Elantra’s base trim only featured a five-inch touchscreen, and it didn’t even have the cabled version of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other upgrades that the previous model year didn’t offer include HD Radio, a second USB port, a larger cluster gauge, and LED daytime running lights.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra SE is also equipped with an impressive assortment of driver-assistance technologies. These include blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, safe-exit warning, and high-beam assist systems.

This compact car is pretty plush, too

Sure, bells and whistles are great, but it doesn’t matter if the car is an uncomfortable ride. Thankfully, that’s not the case with the 2021 Hyundai Elantra. 

In its review of the 2020 Elantra, Consumer Reports said, “Spacious and accommodating, the Elantra fits most drivers well. Nothing crowds the driving space, plus there is a surplus of head, knee, and foot room.”

With so much standard technology, why would drivers bother spending more for a higher trim level? Well, it’s not too much more expensive to do so, and there are many comfort features available. The SEL trim has a starting MSRP of just $20,900, and the top-tier Limited model comes in at $25,450.

Moving up to the SEL affords you a hands-free smart trunk, heated front seats, and an optional wireless charging pad. Meanwhile, the Limited trim has a navigation system, ventilated front seats, and an all-new natural language voice recognition system.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is a well-equipped daily driver

There just aren’t too many value-packed vehicles on the market for less than $20,000. Budget-conscious shoppers should be excited about all the additional features the 2021 Hyundai Elantra brings without incurring a substantial price increase. In fact, it only costs $300 more than the previous model year.

If you’re looking for a thrilling driving experience similar to that of specific Honda Civic models won’t find an equal match with a regular Elantra. Although, the performance-inspired Elantra N Line might give you the adrenaline rush you crave. Hyundai also manufactures an Elantra Hybrid model for eco-conscious drivers.

All-in-all, the 2021 Hyundai Elantra is a spectacular option for anyone seeking a feature-rich commuter car.