2009 Hyundai Elantra: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Hyundai Elantra is the arrival of the all-new Touring five-door hatchback. This is a meaningful lineup update rather than a full redesign, and the sedans also receive steering, suspension, display, and audio upgrades.
About the 2009 Hyundai Elantra
4th-generation Elantra family (HD), third sedan model year in the U.S.; 2009 is also the first U.S. model year for the Elantra Touring five-door variant in this generation.
Hyundai positions the 2009 Elantra as the smart, roomy compact for people who want practical transportation without a stripped-down feel. The sedan leans on interior space, safety, and everyday value, while the new Touring adds more cargo flexibility and a sportier flavor. Versus rivals, Hyundai's pitch is simple: lots of usable room, strong safety content for the class, and a feature-rich feel without moving up to a larger or more expensive car.
The GLS is the straightforward sedan, with power accessories, four-wheel disc brakes, and a split-folding rear seat. The SE adds everyday upgrades such as air conditioning, alloy wheels, stability control, and USB/iPod audio, while the Touring pairs a flexible hatchback cargo area with sport-tuned suspension and quicker steering.
What changed, by category
2009 Hyundai Elantra specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 33 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 132–138 hp | 132–138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 133–136 lb-ft | 133–136 lb-ft | 136 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.2 cu-ft | 14.2 cu-ft | 24.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in | 36.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Stability Control | |||
| Traction Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Refrigerator/Cooler | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Hyundai Elantra?
The biggest change is the new Elantra Touring five-door hatchback. It adds a more flexible cargo area, sport-tuned suspension, and quicker steering to the Elantra family.
Is the 2009 Hyundai Elantra a full redesign?
No, the 2009 Elantra is not a full redesign. It is a lineup-update year led by the new Touring five-door, along with revised sedan steering and suspension and several cabin-tech updates.
Which trims joined the 2009 Hyundai Elantra lineup?
GLS, SE, and Touring are additions to the 2009 trim roster. Touring is the major product expansion because it brings a five-door hatchback body style to the Elantra family.
Did the 2009 Hyundai Elantra get a new engine?
No, the 2009 Elantra did not get a new engine. The sedan lineup keeps its 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and the new Touring uses the same basic engine family.
Which 2009 Hyundai Elantra trims have USB/iPod connectivity?
USB/iPod connectivity is standard on the 2009 Elantra SE and Touring as part of their upgraded audio systems. The audio update also includes an auxiliary input.