The Hyundai Elantra, also the 2012 North American Car of the Year, continues to set the bar in the compact sedan category, as it was recognized as a Best Family Car of 2012 by Parentsmagazine and Edmunds.com in their annual list of family vehicles. The Best Family Cars of 2012 will appear in the July 2012 issue of Parents magazine, available at newsstands nationwide on June 12.

“Thanks to head-turning styling, a fuel-efficient engine, a long list of standard safety features and notably upscale options, the very popular Hyundai Elantra is a wonderful package for small families on a tight budget,” said Scott Oldham, editor in chief, Edmunds.com.

For the fifth consecutive year, car experts from Parents and Edmunds.com scrutinized hundreds of vehicles focusing on safety and reliability as top priorities. Each car was also judged on performance, interior, exterior, and family-friendly features. Every car on the list is equipped with antilock brakes, electronic stability control, and a minimum of six air bags. Plus, a record 14 vehicles recommended by Parents/Edmunds.com, including Elantra, earned a “Top Safety Pick” designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Vehicles (IIHS).

“Hyundai offers class-leading interior volume and family-friendly equipment in the Elantra, making it an ideal car for parents,” said Scott Margason, director, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Additionally, safety is the most important aspect of a vehicle for families and the Elantra’s six standard airbags, state-of-the-art braking package, and electronic stability control make it one of the safest sedans on the road.”

For the 2013 model year, Hyundai will increase its reach of the Elantra by launching a pair of new variants with the bold Elantra Coupe and versatile Elantra Hatchback. Powering Hyundai’s new family members will be a 148 horsepower 1.8-liter engine, mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Mileage is estimated to be 8.11 L/100km city and 5.88 L/100km on the highway for the manual and 8.4 L/100km city and 6.03L/100km highway for the auto.