Twitter Test Driver: David Yoon

Vehicle: 2012 Hyundai Elantra

Twitter account: @daejin_v2

What did you like about the vehicle?

I chose the Elantra because Hyundai has changed in the last few years- my family drives sub-compact cars and the used ones have gone up in price and it’s getting more and more completive in the new car area- and Hyundai has some aggressive hours. Hyundai is more and more appealing for a newer car. The styling of both interior and exterior is fantastic. Very surprised by the interior- lots of space and super comfortable seats- it’s a very stylish looking car.

What didn't you like about the vehicle?

It’s a 1.8 so it felt underpowered but maybe that’s because it was an automatic and not a stick. The car is like that so it gets the great mileage. It’s a little slower out of the gate or for passing. It’s different than what I’m used to. But for 80% of my driving in the city- it’s perfect. After a few days you’re used to the speed. More power means a midsize and I’m looking more for a compact.

What was your first impression when you saw the vehicle? When you first drove it?

The big thing was the styling- it was a big deal and a big difference for me. Our neighbours have a Tucson and love the styling- the fluid styling of the elantra is very very nice. It’s new looking. It’s a higher-waisted car- the doors are higher and it took some time to get used to the car. You can’t see the hood when you’re driving- visibility was great.

What did your neighbour / friends say when they saw it parked in your driveway?

As soon as they found out it was an Elantra a lot of people on twitter were like “oh my god I love my Elantra”. My wife found it very comfortable, easy to drive and stylish. There’s enough room in the back for my daughter as well even though it’s a subcompact. Lots of trunk space. Neighbours really liked the styling of the car as well- they just bought a corolla.

Has this experienced changed or enhanced your opinion of the vehicle / brand you drove?

It opened my eyes as far as the power of it. By driving it you sort of want to research it a little bit more. I did a lot of reading online about the car. The twitter test drive allows you to experiment with the car for two days and let you see if the things written online are true or not. The reviews have all been really great! It’s head to head with the civic and the focus. You can drive it and then read about it and then drive it and read about it and repeat.

Would you buy this vehicle?

Yeah- as far as power goes I think would get used to it. The leasing options are great, finance rates sound fantastic. Cost of upkeep sound like it will be low. This car is definitely what we are looking for. It’s a contender- the Elantra wins when it comes down to dollars and cents. It would be nice to have a new car.