Comparo: 2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2009 Kia Spectra

This was an interesting idea for a comparo since they are from the same company, use the same engine, and occupy the same segment.

But The Truth About Cars is the wrong site to write a review comparing two practical compact sedans. The writer makes a few keen observations and valid opinions, but for the most part this is a bash piece. This is like the bullies on the football team kidnapping the captain of the debating team and the president of the math club and making them fight each other in mock gladitorial combat for the bullies own entertainment.

While there is a place for their type of self-described "no-holds-barred, take-no-prisoners automotive reviews", these guys should stick with reviewing cars that stoke their "automotive passion" instead of reviewing cars that obviously invoke the uglier side of that passion -- hatin' on, derision, and snobbery.

I was going to go into more details, but just don't think it is worth the time or effort. You can read the article yourself here. Not saying it isn't journalism or that I hate the site, but in the hands of someone else it could have been a better article.

Elantra Touring In Showrooms / Consumer Reports Still Hearts the Elantra

Odometer: 10970
MPG: 25.1

Took a look a Craig's List to see if the Elantra Touring has it the Bay Area yet. Saw one going for around 16,900 (lower than the $18495 published price, pic is from the actual ad. ) And they seem pretty desperate to make a sale. Had me wondering [not seriously :) ] how much I could get if I sold the sedan. With the low mileage and the added sun-roof my 2007 SE should attract a higher figure than the $12,500 and $13,000 I saw on GLS's with over 35,000 miles.

The Elantra was Consumer Reports Top Pick for Small Car for the second year in a row. Again value, safety features and reliability, not sexiness gave it the victory.
U.S. News & World Report, which gathers multiple reviews from the car press to create its ratings, still ranks the Elantra #5 out of 35 under affordable small cars.
And perhaps the generally warm reception of the press to Hyundai's Genesis sedan and coupe will boost its brand image in the coming months. Though Honda and Toyota have no competition really when it comes to the brand perception.