I am looking at buying a 2012 Elantra Touring but have been doing some reading on the upcoming GT (new i30).

I really like the large amount of space in the ET and it is the main thing holding me back from waiting for the GT. But if the GT will be available soon I would like to do a side by side comparison. Does anyone know when the GT is expected to arrive in Canada?

 

Wait.

Engine: 2013 GT (2011-up 1.8L Nu) > 2012 Touring (1997-2012 2.0L Beta)
Trans: 2013 GT (6-speed manual/6-speed auto) > 2012 Touring (5-speed manual/4-speed auto)
Power: 2013 GT (148-hp/131-tq) = 2012 Touring (138-hp/136-tq)
Fuel Economy: 2013 GT (28/39) > 2012 Touring (23/31)
Cargo: 2013 GT (approx 59 cu.ft) < 2012 Touring (65.3 cu.ft)
Styling: 2013 GT > 2012 Touring (opinion)

Bottom line 2013 GT > 2012 Touring

 

Here's the first video review of the GT (i30 in the UK), where it won car of the year there from Carbuyer.co.uk
NEW Hyundai i30 review - CarBuyer - YouTube

In-depth car review:
i30 Driving Experience - Silverstone (UK) 24th February 2012, by AlanHo

He does comparisons with the UK versions of the VW Golf, Ford Focus and Mazda 3:
New i30 Compared with the Golf, Focus and Mazda 3