Hyundai Elantra vs Toyota Corolla: who is better in 2025?

Midsize sedans remain a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle. The Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla are two leaders in this segment that continue to compete for buyers' attention in 2025. The Elantra appeals with its bold design and modern technology, while the Corolla has a proven track record and fuel efficiency. In this article, we'll break down which of these cars is the better choice, comparing them on design, technology, safety, performance, and cost.

Design: Hyundai Elantra vs. Corolla

The appearance of a vehicle is often the deciding factor in a purchase. The 2025 Hyundai Elantra stands out with its aggressive design. Its sharp lines, massive grille and LED headlights create a futuristic look. For example, the Elantra is available in bright colours such as blue and red, making it stand out on the road. However, this style may be too bold for conservative buyers.

The Toyota Corolla, on the other hand, takes a more classic approach. Its design has become more refined for 2025, with an emphasis on flowing lines and LED headlights. Moreover, the Corolla looks elegant in neutral shades such as white or grey. Thus, the Elantra wins in expressiveness and the Corolla wins in versatility.

Space and practicality: Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla, comparison

Practicality is an important aspect for everyday use. The Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla offer enough space, but with different accents. The Elantra has a 14.2 cubic foot boot, which is enough for small trips. For example, the Elantra can easily fit grocery bags or a small suitcase. The Elantra also offers 37.3 inches of rear legroom.

The Corolla is slightly ahead in this aspect. Its boot holds 13.1 cubic feet, but it offers more legroom for rear passengers with 41.4 inches of legroom. Moreover, the Corolla has more comfortable rear seats, making it preferable for long journeys. As a result, the Corolla wins in passenger comfort and the Elantra wins in boot space.

Technology: Elantra and Corolla 2025 review

Modern technology makes driving more convenient. The 2025 Hyundai Elantra features a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For example, the system makes it easy to connect your smartphone and use navigation. The Elantra also offers a digital dashboard of the same size, which creates a high-tech cabin feel.

The Toyota Corolla responds with an 8-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Moreover, the Corolla is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane keeping. However, the Elantra benefits from a larger screen and an intuitive interface that makes it more modern.

Safety: Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla

Safety is a priority for any car. Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla demonstrate a high level of protection. Elantra is equipped with SmartSense, which includes automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring and lane keeping. For example, the Elantra received a 5-star rating in NHTSA tests, which confirms its reliability.

The Corolla also received a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Its Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 system includes pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control with stop-start function. What's more, the Corolla offers a rearview camera even in the base trim. As a result, both models offer a high level of safety, but the Corolla benefits slightly from more advanced systems.

Performance: Hyundai Elantra vs Corolla

Performance is important for a comfortable driving experience. The 2025 Hyundai Elantra offers a 2.0-litre engine with 147 hp. It provides smooth acceleration and the variator makes shifts unnoticeable. For example, the Elantra accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds. Also, its fuel consumption is around 31 miles per gallon in the city and 41 on the motorway.

The Toyota Corolla is equipped with a 2.0-litre engine with 169 hp. It is faster - acceleration to 100 km/h takes 7.9 seconds. Moreover, the Corolla is more economical: 32 miles per gallon in the city and 41 on the motorway. Corolla also offers a hybrid version, which reduces consumption to 4.5 litres per 100 km. Thus, the Corolla wins in power and economy.

Interior comfort: Hyundai Elantra and Corolla - a battle of sedans

Interior comfort has a direct impact on the travelling experience. Hyundai Elantra offers comfortable seats with fabric upholstery in the basic version. Leather is available in top-end configurations. For example, the Elantra is equipped with dual-zone climate control, which allows you to adjust the temperature for the driver and passengers. However, rear legroom is limited to 37.3 inches.

The Toyota Corolla puts an emphasis on spaciousness. Its cabin offers 41.4 inches of rear legroom, and the seats offer better support. Moreover, the Corolla uses better quality materials such as soft plastics. The Corolla also offers better noise insulation, which makes for a more comfortable ride. As a result, the Corolla wins in comfort.

Price and service: Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla, comparison

Price is an important factor when choosing a car. The 2025 Hyundai Elantra starts at $22,000, making it more affordable. The top-of-the-line versions go up to $28,000. For example, the Elantra offers a 5-year warranty, which adds to buyers' confidence. Servicing the Elantra costs an average of $350 per year.

The Toyota Corolla is more expensive: the base price is $23,500, while the top versions go up to $30,000. Moreover, the Corolla has a 3-year warranty, which is less than the Elantra. The Corolla is more expensive to maintain, at around $400 per year. As a result, Elantra wins in availability and cost of ownership.

Eco-friendliness: Hyundai Elantra vs. Corolla

Environmental friendliness is becoming increasingly important. The Hyundai Elantra emits around 130 g/km of CO2, which is higher than some competitors. However, its fuel-efficient engine makes up for this. For example, the Elantra uses less fuel, which reduces its overall carbon footprint.

The Toyota Corolla emits around 120 g/km of CO2, which is better than the Elantra. Moreover, the hybrid version of the Corolla reduces emissions to 90 g/km. Also, the Corolla offers a more efficient engine even in non-hybrid versions. Thus, the Corolla wins in environmental friendliness.

Which to choose: Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla?

The Hyundai Elantra Toyota Corolla offers different benefits. The Elantra is ideal for those looking for an affordable and stylish sedan. For example, it offers more luggage space and modern technology. Moreover, the Elantra benefits from a long warranty and a striking design.

Corolla, on the other hand, is focused on reliability and comfort. It offers more power, better fuel economy and space for passengers. The Corolla also appeals with a more classic design and a hybrid version. As a result, the choice depends on your priorities: style or reliability.

Conclusion: Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla?

The Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla are two worthy representatives of the middle class. Elantra wins in price, design and technology, making it ideal for young drivers. The Corolla appeals with economy, comfort and reliability, but costs more. Weigh your needs and choose the sedan that better suits your lifestyle.