Well, that’s about to change.

Expect a Hyundai hybrid in 2010 in the form of an Avante or Elantra.

Hyundai Chairman Chung Mong Koo stated, “The importance of developing futuristic, environmentally-friendly cars is increasing for sustainable growth, therefore, technology for advanced cars, like the hybrid, is imperative. We also plan to produce a small fleet of fuel cell electric vehicles from 2012.”

Hopefully by then the economy will no longer be an issue anyway.

The Elantra is big enough to be a mid-size vehicle, but it still offers the same advantages of the compact line. The interior can comfortably fit five passengers with enough backseat room to keep everyone comfortable; it has the highest cubic feet volume in its class. The cargo space is impressive as well, with only room to increase with the added room when you fold down then 60/40 split backseat. All of the occupants are kept contented with the options of air conditioning, 172-watt stereo system, various cup holders and storage compartments and more! All of the occupants are safe with front, front seat side-impact and side curtain airbags. The electronic stability control with the traction control system and brake assist make the Elantras AI help you in any scenario and keep the occupants further from harm.

Two transmissions are available, and really give the driver the option to control this 2008 vehicle to their liking. The 5-speed manual transmission gives you full control over the cars operating, while the 4-speed automatic transmission leaves more of the work to the Elantras superior system; both give you the feeling that you’re in safe hands. Two engines are also available, the higher end one being138-hp, 2.0-liter I-4 with continuously variable valve timing; the engine performs with seamless effort. This car delivers a consistent performance.

With so many standard and optional features, you can make this sedan your dream car, but at a fraction of the expected price!