2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue added to Elantra Range

Hyundai added another trim to its Elantra range for 2010, intended as the fuel efficient version of the Elantra. The 2010 Hyundai Elantra’s base price remains unchanged at $14,120.

Hyundai created the Blue trim level to help the Elantra’s fuel efficiency. With the Blue model, customers get a “smart” alternator management system, lower friction engine components, taller transmission gear ratios, updated engine calibration, and a shift indicator to achieve a 2 mpg increase in fuel economy in both city and highway driving, to 26/35 mpg (city/highway).

The big news for the 2010 Elantra was the Blue trim, but both the Elantra GLS and SE receive updates as well. Hyundai’s iPod/USB and auxiliary audio inputs are now standard and XM Satellite radio is an option. To improve the functionality of the iPod/car interface, Hyundai updated the radio to allow the driver and passenger to control the music from the radio itself rather than the iPod.

Updates to the Elantra aren’t only to the radio and electronics. Elantra SE buyers now get a monotone black interior color option and all Elantra’s get an updated exterior with a new waterfall grill.

Hyunda’s new 2010 Elantra lineup is available at dealers today with a starting price of $14,120 (including destination) for the new Elantra Blue. Hyundai hasn’t announced destination charges for the 2010 Elantra, but it should remain close to the $720 destination charge on the 2009 models.