2009 Hyundai Elantra

Equipped with a 141 horsepower, 16-valve 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and five-speed manual transmission (a four-speed automatic is optional), the Elantra Touring's acceleration will probably fall in the peppy category -- just shy of brisk.

A six-speaker audio setup plays CDs and features both an auxiliary input and a USB port for playing MP3s from a mobile device.

Exterior styling seems to be par for the course, as far as the five-door segment is concerned. Chrome accents, tinted glass, fog lamps, and optional 17-inch wheels give the Elantra Touring a little edge, but it will take some bright paintwork (the red shown in these pictures will do nicely) before it gets a second look approaching in the rear-view mirror.

The Elantra Touring will not only have the most interior volume of any five-door in its class, it'll also be the first with standard stability control. (Anti-lock brakes are also standard, as are six airbags and active front head restraints.)

Based on the forthcoming European-market i30, the Elantra Touring shares the Elantra sedan's 2.0-liter four, but has a unique sport suspension and improved steering. It is the first Hyundai vehicle to receive a USB port in addition to its standard auxiliary audio jack and XM satellite radio which, are big bonus features in this segment, which includes Toyota's Matrix, Dodge's Caliber, and Mazda's 3.