2006 Hyundai Elantra 4-Door SE and 5-Door GT Road Test

2006 Hyundai Elantra 4-Door SE October 13, 2005
2006 Hyundai Elantra 4-Door SE and 5-Door GT Road Test
by Alexandra Straub , Canadian Auto Press
Two Similar Cars with Two Distinct Personalities

Like fraternal twins, the Elantra SE 4-door and the 5-door GT share the same DNA in multiple ways. They both come with a front independent MacPherson Strut suspension and rear independent Multi-Link setup, they
Of the two siblings, the SE 4-door would be the conservative personality. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)
are powered by the same inline 16-valve, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing), producing 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, and come with quite a few similar standard features, but at heart, they are two completely different personalities.

Of the two siblings, the SE 4-door would be the conservative personality. While its European-influenced styling gives it some edge, it is definitely not as bold-looking as the 5-door GT. I wouldn't go as far as saying it blends in with the rest of the cars in its class, but its presence is of a softer influence.

Speaking of road presence, I am frequently asked what kind of car I am driving for the week. When I responded to this question by saying I was
While its European-influenced styling gives the sedan some edge, it is definitely not as bold-looking as the 5-door GT. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)
in the Elantra sedan, my friend said, "Oh, you're driving a normal person's car this week. Welcome back!" I laughed. I then thought about what "normal person's car" meant. Perhaps it means a reliable vehicle that gets me from point A to B with comfort and convenience, but nothing that attracts too much attention, unlike the notice-me-yellow Hyundai Tiburon Tuscani I drove a couple of months ago.

Sometimes, I like driving a normal person's car. From time to time, I just want to drive around in my sweatpants and baggy t-shirt with no makeup on and listen to cheesy '80s music and not get noticed because of the colour or model of a car. It's great that way. Then again, sometimes I like the attention a sweet ride attracts. There's just no winning with me!
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