Don't get me wrong, I love my new little Rio SX, but as I just stumbled on to the newly released Elantra GT, I have to say - it looks impressive too. In fact, I may have seriously considered spending the extra coin on this one if the timing was right.
Now I realize this isn't an apples to apples comparison - as the new Elantra GT is one class larger than the Rio (Compact vs Subcompact). But it has an almost identical EPA, and I'm sure that many of us compared vehicles in both these classes anyway - I know I did. And of course, it's a few grand more $$$
In comparing the top levels of each, it has most everything the Rio5 has, plus:
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Dual Zone Climate Control
- Power Driver's Seat
- Hidden Rear Camera
- Driver Selectable Steering
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
- Driver's Knee Airbag
- Front Wiper De-Icer
- More Interior Space
Styling is sensational! It really grabs me. It has very nice lines that mimic both the Rio and the Elantra sedan (which I like too). And while styling is personal taste, the GT certainly has a more sporty, aggressive stance and sharper lines than the Rio5 - which you may or may not like. But as the GT has some very trendy styling cues, I'm betting (hoping) that our Rio ages better
To be fair - the GT is missing a few little things that our Rio's have:
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Power Folding Side Mirrors
- Front & Rear LED Lights
- Way Smaller (still cooled) Glovebox
Now I realize this isn't an apples to apples comparison - as the new Elantra GT is one class larger than the Rio (Compact vs Subcompact). But it has an almost identical EPA, and I'm sure that many of us compared vehicles in both these classes anyway - I know I did. And of course, it's a few grand more $$$
In comparing the top levels of each, it has most everything the Rio5 has, plus:
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Dual Zone Climate Control
- Power Driver's Seat
- Hidden Rear Camera
- Driver Selectable Steering
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
- Driver's Knee Airbag
- Front Wiper De-Icer
- More Interior Space
Styling is sensational! It really grabs me. It has very nice lines that mimic both the Rio and the Elantra sedan (which I like too). And while styling is personal taste, the GT certainly has a more sporty, aggressive stance and sharper lines than the Rio5 - which you may or may not like. But as the GT has some very trendy styling cues, I'm betting (hoping) that our Rio ages better

To be fair - the GT is missing a few little things that our Rio's have:
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Power Folding Side Mirrors
- Front & Rear LED Lights
- Way Smaller (still cooled) Glovebox