2021 Hyundai Elantra vs Toyota Corolla

With fuel costs on the rise and more drivers looking to save money, finding a vehicle that gets great gas mileage is essential. Subcompacts still have an advantage over other models in this regard - but which one will come out ahead? Enter the 2021 Hyundai Elantra with its bold redesign combined with the ultra-reliable Toyota Corolla for a highly contested head-to-head comparison of two popular cars! Find out who comes away as champion here.

The Powertrain

When checking out the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, test drivers will have two different powertrains to consider. Hyundai's base four-cylinder engine pushes out around 147 horsepower. Drivers who desire are livelier performance can upgrade to the turbocharged Elantra N-Line. Its 201-horsepower engine ensures especially strong acceleration. To promote the best possible fuel economy, the Elantra’s base engine is mated to a continuous variable transmission. While the N-Line trim comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, buyers can opt for a dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla gives you the power to choose! Get ready for a ride that's tailored just how you want it with two engine options, plus an automatic CVT or six speed manual gearbox. Let your style shine through and make sure everything runs smoothly by keeping up on regular auto services. Make every drive something special - start customizing today.

During real-world driving conditions, don’t expect to notice a major difference in performance between these compact cars. This is especially true for the standard powertrains. There’s just enough pep under the hood to ensure a pleasing commute. Fuel efficiency proves to be a bigger priority.

Drivers who desire more excitement will be deciding between the Corolla Apex Edition and the Elantra N-Line. While the Corolla Apex Edition feels responsive, no version of the Corolla can compete with the Hyundai Elantra N-Line. A 0-60 mph time of roughly 6.5 seconds puts the Elantra N-Line among the swiftest cars in the class. By comparison, the Corolla Apex Edition clocks a 0-60 mph time of roughly 7.6 seconds.

The Elantra N-Line is an absolute thrill ride on the open roads, allowing drivers to take fully advantage of its multi-link rear suspension and high performance exhaust system. Its sound alone will send your heart racing with excitement! The Corolla still maintains respectable driving dynamics, but cannot compare when it comes to providing a full encounter of fun behind the wheel - leaving you wanting for more every time.

It’s important to note that both cars are front-wheel-drive models. An AWD system is not offered as an option. Traction can become a bit dicey in frozen weather.

The new Elantra is more efficient than before. It can return up to an EPA-calculated 33 mpg town/43 mpg freeway. Drivers who choose the more potent Elantra N-Line can anticipate getting up to 28 mpg town/36 mpg city. Choosing the N-Line trim’s manual transmission results in a lower fuel economy rating of 25 mpg town/34 mpg freeway.

While the Corolla is good on gas, it’s not quite as frugal as the new Elantra. Fuel economy estimates for the Corolla stand at 30 mpg city/38 mpg freeway with the base engine. Meanwhile, opting for the stronger engine actually boosts efficiency to 31 mpg city/40 mpg freeway. Like the Corolla, the Elantra is programmed to used regular unleaded gasoline.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra has an effective braking system. While the Elantra’s official stopping distance is not available, test drivers were impressed by how well this car performed during emergency situations. Tests show the Corolla takes around 119 feet to come to a complete stop, which puts it in the middle of the segment.

With its impressive 4.5 rating out of 5, the Corolla has long been a favorite among drivers seeking reliable transport; you can count on it to stay in top condition for years with few unplanned repairs along the way. The Elantra may not hit those same high dependability standards, but still boasts an above-average 3.5 rating that keeps it ahead of much competition in this class!

With the Elantra, Hyundai grants generous coverage that extends far past its competitors. Not only does it have a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty but also ensures bumper protection for an additional 24k miles on top of that! Whereas most other vehicles in this class are limited to just 36k when it comes to their basic warranties - making the Elantra truly stand out from the crowd.

Drivability

Both cars receive high marks in the ride quality department. A comfort-focused suspension comes standard. However, even models equipped with a sport suspension do an admirable job of absorbing bumps. Whether they spend a lot of time in the city or do more highway commuting, drivers can look forward to experiencing a smooth ride.

In terms of outward visibility, the 2021 Toyota Corolla gets good marks. Its low-slung hood and thin A-pillars help drivers to obtain a great view of the entire road. However, it can be a bit difficult to see out of the Corolla’s rear windows. According to most automotive reviewers,the 2021 Hyundai Elantra also offers so-so rear visibility. Because of the sedan's sleek roofline, a greater number of blind spots are present.

Taking the Elantra or Corolla on a highway adventure? You may hear some added engine noise when going up hills and merging onto crowded roads, but rest assured that it won't be loud enough to dampen conversation with your passengers.

When searching for the perfect car, families should consider both the Elantra and Corolla. The former provides 99.4 cubic feet of passenger space - enough to seat five people comfortably - while there's 88.6 cubic feet inside the latter vehicle; this means that passengers in its backseat will revel in an additional 3.2 inches of legroom! In terms of front legroom, only a slight difference exists between these cars making them ideal options for loved ones who travel together frequently.

The Elantra sets the bar for seating coziness, while some reviewers find the Corolla's passenger seat a bit too low. No adjustments can be made though; however both cars provide comfy heated front seats to keep you warm on your journey.

Drivers of the Toyota Corolla may be disappointed to find that its trunk is undersized, providing only a scant 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space compared with 14.2 in the Hyundai Elantra's roomier luggage compartment - which also contains an exclusive Smart Trunk feature enabling hands-free access when you approach! This can save drivers crucial time by eliminating any outward motions like waving or kicking required for opening up their trunks - leaving more energy and effort free to cram those extra shopping bags inside your car with ease.

Hyundai’s Blue Link infotainment system comes standard on the new Elantra. This interface’s overall simplicity makes it a great asset. For 2021, it has been updated with wireless smartphone integration. While the standard 8.0-inch touchscreen is a breeze to use, an upgraded 10.25-inch touchscreen is offered. Not only does the top-of-the-line unit have quicker processing, but it also provides split-screen functionality.

Toyota’s Entune infotainment system is just as simple to operate. Drivers will grow to appreciate the unit’s physical buttons and knobs. While even the standard 7.0-inch touch display provides Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, a larger 8.0-inch screen with navigation is available. Keep in mind that wireless smartphone support is not offered on the Corolla.

Enhanced voice recognition technology is found on the upscale Elantra Limited. Drivers can make verbal commands using natural language. Toyota’s voice command technology is not as advanced.

Safety

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra has yet to be officially crash tested by the federal government or the IIHS. However, it does feature a high-strength safety cage and upgraded side impact airbags.

Few compact sedans provide as much impact protection as the 2021 Toyota Corolla. It received a flawless score in every major crash test, thus helping it to earn an NHTSA five-star overall safety rating. Last year, the Corolla also managed to be named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Both the Elantra and Corolla come with advanced safety features to help ensure your protection on the road, such as pre-collision braking technology for pedestrian detection and active lane assistance. The higher trim levels of the Corolla also have a blind spot monitor, while only it provides smart cruise control as standard – so you can navigate busy highways in peace.

Safe Exit Assist is exclusively found on the Elantra. The system is designed to prevent passengers from opening their door into oncoming traffic. It will prove to be extremely helpful when parking along a busy street. Hyundai’s driver attention warning system can also enhance security. Advanced software enables the system to estimate the driver’s level of alertness, thus helping to prevent a fatigue-related accident.

What Has the Best Value?

With the 2021 Hyundai Elantra starting at $19,650 and Toyota's Corolla beginning just over $500 higher at 19,825 MSRP - shoppers are presented with two great value vehicles. But dig deeper and you'll find noteworthy differences beyond price alone: The Elantra boasts a larger touchscreen display equipped for wireless smartphone support as well as a blind-spot monitor that aren't standard on even the base level of its competitor. Plus it comes backed by an impressive warranty longevity to provide extra peace of mind down the road.

For thrill-seekers searching for an adrenaline rush, two cars stand out from the pack: The Elantra N-Line and the Corolla Apex Edition. While both come with a hefty price tag - $24,100 for the former and $26,000 for latter - experts agree that you get more bang (and horsepower!) for your buck when opting to go with Hyundai's N-Line model. With its stylish exterior design and upgraded infotainment system in addition to its impressive performance capabilities, it is easy to see why this car has become so popular!

Which Is Better?

Last year, the Corolla was a best-seller. Expect the 2021 model to remain just as popular. However, a lot of people are also expected to choose the redesigned 2021 Hyundai Elantra.

Both cars are great for daily commuting. They’re efficient and easy to drive. However, folks wanting more driving excitement will be happier with the Elantra N-Line. It delivers one of the best performances in the segment.

Road trips are the perfect way to create memories with your family - and what better car to take on these long-distance journeys than the 2021 Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla? Their roomy interiors will ensure everyone's comfort while active safety features promise peace of mind. But when you opt for a new Elantra, it'll be like taking things up several gears – wireless smartphone integration unlocks brand-new opportunities plus enhanced voice control capabilities provide ultimate ease of use. So why not get out there with an all-star vehicle fit for today’s high expectations.

With so many car models available, making the right choice can be overwhelming. However, you don't have to worry - two of today's most popular cars are here! The Corolla offers a sporty edge while the Elantra is chic and modern with alloy wheels and LED running lights even on its base trim model. Both offer reliability and impressive warranties but if what matters to you is having an unforgettable driving experience combined with premium features then go for Hyundai’s new Elantra – it will surely exceed your expectations!