Honda Civic versus Hyundai Elantra

If you're looking for a compact sedan, the Honda Civic and the Hyundai Elantra are two of the most popular choices available on the market. Due to their reliability, safety features, and affordability, a lot of car shoppers choose to buy one of these models. However, you'll notice some differences between these two options that may impact your car-buying decision.

Perhaps, you're looking for the most fuel-efficient car. Or, maybe you want a model with all of the latest safety features. No matter what your priorities may be, you should consider the differences between the Civic vs. the Elantra. We'll go over the pros and cons of each model in important categories so that you can choose the option that best fits your priorities and preferences.

Honda Civic (2023)

The current model year Civic is a well-built car with a comfortable, upscale cabin that's packed with Honda's standard safety features. It's reliable and fuel-efficient, making it a favorite choice in the compact car market segment. Though this model doesn't have any hybrid trims, the fuel efficiency ratings are relatively high at 36 combined city/highway mpg rating for its EX trim.

There are only three trims to choose from–the Sport, EX, and Touring. The most affordable option is the Sport at $25,050. If you're looking for a more high-end trim, the Touring is available for $30,050. 

The Civic has a lot of standard safety features that are available even in the base trim. You can expect features such as a collision mitigation braking system, traffic jam assist, adaptive cruise control, and a traffic sign recognition system. There is also additional technology available throughout the cabin that is designed to make the driving experience more comfortable and enjoyable. You'll have features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a touchscreen, and Bluetooth in all trim levels. On the highest trim level, you'll also have Sirius XM, a wireless phone charger, and a premium Bose sound system.

Hyundai Elantra (2023)

The Hyundai Elantra is a sophisticated sedan with an impressive exterior style and a comfortably designed cabin. The Elantra's gas engines have decent fuel efficiency that ranges from 34-37 combined city/highway mpg ratings. The hybrid options have even better fuel efficiency at an estimated 50-54 combined city/highway mpg.

There are a few different trims available for purchase including the SE (base trim), SEL, Limited, N Line, Blue Hybrid, Limited Hybrid, and N. If you're interested in the base trim level, it will cost upwards of $20,650. For the highest trim level available, the N costs $32,900.

Much like the Civic, the Elantra has quite a few helpful and entertaining technology features to make the ride convenient and enjoyable. On all trim levels, you'll have standard safety features like forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. On higher-level trims, you'll also have features like smart cruise control, highway drive assist, and parking distance warning. 

How Do They Compare?

Deciding between the Civic vs. the Elantra can be challenging. Both models have a lot to offer drivers. However, there are a few key differences between them. We'll go over some of the major pros and cons so that you can find the option that works best for you.

The Hyundai Elantra Has More Affordable Options Than the Honda Civic

The Elantra has lower-priced base models. So, those who are on a budget will appreciate a few affordable options. However, the Elantra also has the most expensive option. So depending on which trim level you prefer, the price differences may vary. 

The Honda Civic's Base Engines Are More Powerful 

If you're looking to purchase one of the lower-priced trims, the Civic's engines will have more horsepower capability than the Elantra's engines. The Civic's base trim (Sport) can generate up to 158 @6500 rpm, while the higher trims (EX and Touring) can generate up to 180 horsepower @6000 rpm. In comparison, the Elantra's base engines can only produce up to 147 horsepower @6200. 

However, if you're willing to pay the top price of the highest Elantra trim level (N), then you'll get the most powerful engine option of the two models. The N trim's engine can produce up to 201 horsepower @6000 rpm. 

The Hyundai Elantra Is More Fuel Efficient Than the Honda Civic

For a lot of drivers, having a fuel-efficient car is important. The Hyundai Elantra will be the best option for you, whether you choose one of the lower trims or the hybrid options. The base trim (SE) of the Elantra has a 37 combined city/highway mpg rating. In comparison, the base trim of the Civic (Sport) has an estimated 33 combined city/highway mpg rating. 

The Elantra's Blue Hybrid trim has the best fuel economy of the two models with an estimated 54 combined city/highway mpg rating. Unfortunately, there is not a hybrid Civic option for the current model year. So the Elantra is the clear winner in the fuel efficiency category.

The Honda Civic Has More Standard Safety Features Than the Hyundai Elantra

The base trims of the Civic are packed with all of the latest Honda safety features. If you prefer the option with the best safety features available, then you'll prefer the Civic vs. the Elantra. The Civic Sport trim has features that the Elantra doesn't, like adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, and a traffic sign recognition system. 

The Honda Civic Has Slightly More Cargo Space Than the Hyundai Elantra

Though the Civic and Elantra have very similar sizes, the Civic has slightly more cargo space than the Elantra. If you opt for the Civic, you can expect a trunk space of 14.8 cubic feet. The Elantra has a trunk space of 14.2 cubic feet. 

Overall, choosing between the Civic vs. the Elantra is a tough decision. There are a lot of great advantages to each model, so the right choice will come down to your own preferences and needs. The Elantra is perfect for those who are on a tight budget and want great fuel efficiency. However, the Civic is reliable, safe, and performs well. If you're interested in learning more about the 2023 Honda Civic and possibly taking the car for a test drive, get in touch with our team.