Elantra i30 aka: GT looking for info Options

[bruce19]

I just bought a 2013 Elantra GT 6 sp. It's my understanding that they are Euro versions (i30) of the Elantra and significantly different from other US Elantras. Just wondering if someone can point me to some resource that details the differences. TIA

[Alex2013GT]

Don't know if I have ever found a specific comparison of differences and similarities between the US Elantra sedan and the Elantra GT, but I can run down some basics off the top of my head. Feel free to look around at the features on Hyundai's site as you will likely find more than just my recollection below:

Similarities:
Both the sedan and the GT in the US use the same engine and powerplant. Some have replaced the rear shocks (one of the complaints is there is some rear end hop) and from what I have found the same shock has been used successfully for both the sedan and the GT. KYB is the brand that most have used and those that have done it swear by the results (I myself have not yet done this though).

Differences:
Obviously the body style and exterior styling is completely different between the two. This includes pretty much every body panel, headlights, tail lights, grill, etc. The GT you can get the pano roof, whereas you cannot get that on the sedan or the coupe. On the GT you get the driver selectable steering modes (Sport, Normal, Comfort). On the GT you get a driver side knee airbag. The interior layout and configuration is different between the two. The wheel options are different, though both share the same lug pattern. The GT allows the driver to change various configurations as part of the tripometer menu (i.e. auto lock/unlock, auto turn signal, etc). On the sedan you need to go to the dealer to get these options changed.

I'm sure there are plenty more and feel free to add any that you find to this thread, but those are some that come to me off the top of my mind.

Welcome to the club!

[bruce19]

Thanks Alex. One of the things that Car & Driver noted is that Hyundai "tweaked" the suspension of the GT but I have no idea what that means specifically. I've noticed that the ride can be harsh as if the shocks are not up to the task. I was thinking of replacing them at some point but am not sure if that's the only issue affecting the ride over bumpy surfaces.

[Red Elantra GT]

Hey-Having owned an '11 Elantra, I can tell you there is a difference in ride quality with the '13 GT. Hyundai added better rear shocks and a rear sway bar for improved handling. The front shocks are a little soft, IMO.