2016 Hyundai Elantra vs Toyota Corolla Comparison
2016 Hyundai Elantra
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2016 Toyota Corolla
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Base Engine: |
1.8 L Inline 4 |
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Horsepower: |
132 hp @ 6000 rpm |
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Torque: |
128 ft-lbs. @ 4400 rpm |
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Fuel Economy: |
27/36 mpg* |
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Transmission: |
4-speed automatic |
2016 Hyundai Elantra vs Toyota Corolla
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The compact-to-midsize vehicle class is a hazy, difficult-to-define region. These cars are roomy enough for four - and sometimes even five - passengers, but getting real value for the money involves some homework on your part. The base trims offered by most automakers don't include some of the convenience features you want, and you have to shell out more to get the optional extras. The 2016 Hyundai Elantra is certainly worth a close look, however, as it offers a good balance of performance, high-tech niceties, and ride comfort without having to the bank. One of its closest rivals is the Toyota Corolla, a similarly equipped vehicle but a more costly one to own.
Options
Upon first glance, the Elantra will turn plenty of heads. Its sporty appearance is a higher quality than that of the Toyota Corolla, including side rocker panels with chrome molding. While the Corolla features front and rear fascia, it cannot match the Elantra's rotational-dip paint process, which distributes primer over every inch, reducing the effects of the elements. Both cars give you a panoramic sunroof, but only the Elantra offers the option of a power tilt and slide sunroof for easy conversion in ever changing weather.
The Elantra is also the midsize with the interior space of a much larger car. With 122.4 cubic feet inside, there's room for more cargo and people than any other midsize sedan. Loading parcels just got easier with the smart trunk feature. This allows the trunk to automatically open when it senses the Proximity key behind the vehicle within three feet for more than three seconds. This features is nowhere to be found on the Corolla.
Performance
The 2016 Elantra is powered by a 1.8L engine that produces a total of 145 horsepower. If that isn’t enough power for you, upgrade to the Sport trim that’s equipped with a larger 2.0L engine, producing 173 horsepower, and makes for much better acceleration and handling. The ride is stable and secure in all trims, while the Sport version has an upgraded suspension that gives you more control when you're behind the wheel. The 2016 Corolla is powered by a similar size 1.8L engine, but acceleration is noticeably weak as it only produces 132 horsepower. Unlike the Elantra, there is not another engine option with the Corolla.
Features
The biggest selling point of any car is the features you get for the price you pay. The 2016 Elantra won't disappoint you. Even if you choose the affordable base trim, you get such goodies as full power accessories, air conditioning, satellite radio, and USB port. For a little more money, you can select the Value edition trim and enjoy a driver blind-spot mirror, automatic headlights, Bluetooth, voice controls, a nice touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. The 2016 Corolla comes with the same basic features, but you have to pay a lot more to get the rearview camera or the integrated navigation system.
Interior
One of the biggest complaints consumers have about small or mid-size sedans is the loud ride. While it's true that many compacts and mid-size passenger vehicles don't contain much sound-dampening technology, the 2016 Elantra is surprisingly quiet. The interior is certainly spacious enough, and passengers ride in comfort because the engine and road contact vibration is barely noticeable. On the other hand, the Corolla is known for its lack of adequate headroom in the rear seating area, and although the ride is fairly quiet, road bumps are always felt.
If you haven't yet taken the 2016 Elantra for a test drive, we encourage you to do so. Contact your local Hyundai dealership today and schedule a test drive.
* EPA estimated MPG may vary by transmission, trim and individual driving behavior.