Honda Pilot vs. Hyundai Elantra

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Do you want a vehicle that is packed with the latest safety technology features? What about a vehicle that has a comfortable and roomy cabin? The Honda Pilot and Hyundai Elantra are two excellent models that deliver on both of these features. 

If you're beginning car shopping, you may be looking at a bunch of different options. The Honda Pilot is an SUV with a tough exterior, while the Hyundai Elantra is a stylish sedan. However, they both have great technology features and offer an incredibly comfortable riding experience. 

We'll go over some of the pros and cons of each model to help you narrow down your car search. We'll review important categories like fuel efficiency, safety, design, and performance, so you'll be able to make the best choice possible.

Honda Pilot (2023)

The Honda Pilot is a durable SUV with a truck-like exterior. It has a refined cabin interior with comfortable seating, plus safety and technology features. The Pilot is available in five trim levels–the Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Elite. The base trim level can be bought for $39,150, while the highest trim level can be bought for $52,030.

With all trim levels, you can expect a lot of standard safety features. On the base trim level (the Sport), you'll drive with features like a forward collision warning, a blind spot information system, a traffic jam assist, and a driver attention monitor. 

In addition to safety features, you'll enjoy other high-quality features that promote comfort, convenience, and entertainment. For your convenience, the Sport trim has a push-button start, a cargo area light, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system. If you like having entertainment during your rides, then you'll appreciate the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. 

Hyundai Elantra (2023)

The Hyundai Elantra is a sleek and stylish sedan. It's available in seven different trim levels–the SE, SEL, Limited, N Line, Blue, Limited (hybrid), and N. The base trim (SE) is the most affordable option starting at $ 20,500. If you are interested in the highest trim level, it will cost you $32,650.

On the base trim level, you can expect decent fuel efficiency, effective safety features, and convenient technology. Some of the safety features that come standard even on base trim levels include but are not limited to forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, blind spot collision avoidance system, safe exit warning, and driver attention warning. 

There are a lot of features available on the Elantra, including a touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and solar glass. 

How Do They Compare?

If you are considering the Honda Pilot vs. Hyundai Elantra, we'll compare the two models in top categories that are important to consider when car shopping.

The Hyundai Elantra Has a More Affordable Range of Trim Levels

Price can be a big factor for car shoppers. If you're working with a tight budget, then you'll appreciate the Hyundai Elantra's price range. The Elantra is much more affordable than the Passport by a wide margin. Even if you opt for the highest trim level of the Elantra, it will still be less expensive than the base trim of the Passport.

The Honda Pilot Has More Seating Available Than the Hyundai Elantra

Lifestyle and certain needs can take precedence when you are searching for a new car. If you have a big family or plan on taking a lot of passengers regularly, then you'll appreciate the dimensions of the Honda Pilot vs. the Hyundai Elantra. 

The Pilot is able to accommodate eight passengers, while the Elantra can only seat five people. The Pilot's cabin is also very versatile, so if you often find yourself wanting a lot of cargo room, then you'll enjoy the space of the Pilot. The rows of seating can be folded down to expand the cargo area. 

In comparison, the Elantra is roomy for a sedan but offers less space than the Pilot.

The Hyundai Elantra Is More Fuel Efficient Than the Honda Pilot

The Elantra is more fuel efficient than the Pilot. With the Elantra, you can expect to save at the gas pumps as it has a 33 City/ 42 Highway mpg. In contrast, the Pilot only has an estimated 19 City/ 27 Highway mpg.

The Honda Pilot Has the Most Powerful Engine

The Pilot has a more powerful engine than the Elantra. On all trim levels of the Pilot, the engine is able to generate up to 285 horsepower. The Elantra is only able to produce 201 horsepower on higher trim levels.

The Honda Pilot Can Handle Harsh Driving Conditions 

If you often find yourself having to drive in harsh conditions, then you'll appreciate the Pilot. Whether you have heavy winters and need to drive your kids to school in the morning in the snow or you have to deal with light offroading, then you'll prefer the Honda Pilot vs. the Hyundai Elantra. 

The Pilot has optional all-wheel drive, all-season tires, and different driving modes (snow, ECON, tow, sport, and trail & sand options). The Elantra is not as capable in tough weather or harsh driving conditions and only provides three different driving modes–normal, sport, and smart. 

Ultimately, choosing the right car depends on your situation and preferences. Do you have a strict budget? Do you need a vehicle that can handle harsh winters? How much space do you need? The answers to these questions will help determine what choice is best for you. If you need a durable, powerful car that can drive your family around during the winter, then the Honda Pilot is the best option for you. However, if you wouldn't mind a more compact vehicle that doesn't hold up as well in the snow, then the fuel-efficient Elantra is a great choice.