Hyundai Elantra Lantra 1st generation (J1) 

The Elantra also called Lantra in Europe was built from October 1990 Lantra as a notchback with a comparatively rich equipment level but relatively  inexpensive. Fog lights, air conditioning and a part leather trim were available as optional extras.

In early 1994, the Lantra J1 was subjected to a comprehensive facelift, in which the rear and front end was modified and the interior was upgraded. For the first time ABS was available and a driver airbag as standard. This improved the crash test result.

Reliability

Frequent repairs on the Lantra type J1 are caused by the small-sized brake system and the cooling systems of the engines, which are not dimensioned for full load. With the facelift therefore a modified cooling water thermostat and a stronger oil pump were used. Due to age, however, the cooling water hoses can now be porous. The result of overheated engines is damage to the cylinder head gasket .

Defective timing belts were another source of engine damage to the model maintenance, which then decreased by reinforced timing belt; Statistics are not available for this. The chassis has an early through leaky sleeves weary drive shaft , which is recognizable by crackling noises during steering and load changes . The joints on the front and rear axles also frequently show considerable deficiencies. The body is partially galvanized, but hardly conserved. Rust is therefore slightly above average, even on the brake lines.

In its inspections, the TÜV finds at three percent more Lantra significant deficiencies than the average of the same age vehicles.  Elantra's only real standout feature is generous passenger space for the class trunk space is ample, though some rear leg room is sacrificed to achieve it. 

The only crash test performed on the vehicle is the US NCAP front-end test.  Driving is tested at 46 km / h on a concrete wall.

• US-NCAP 1990-1994 Driver's side: Passenger side:
• US-NCAP 1994-1995 Driver side: Passenger side:
  
  
  

Engines 

The motorization of this generation was still licensed from Mitsubishi engines, but may contain minor changes. They meet the Euro 1 standard .