2022 Hyundai Elantra vs Honda Civic

Interested in a compact car but feeling overwhelmed? Worry not - the 2022 Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra are both fantastic options. The redesigned Civic offers buyers their choice between sedan or hatchback, while the Elantra is only available as a sedan due to space-making considerations for its subcompact SUVs. Although they have differences when it comes to body type and other aspects, these vehicles share one trait uniformly: affordability! Check out this guide for all you need to know on two of today's most popular rides.

The Powertrain

While the Elantra may not offer multiple body styles, it does have several powertrains to consider. It starts buyers out with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that creates 147-horsepower. Found alongside this engine is a continuously variable transmission. All 2022 Elantra models are equipped with front-wheel drive.

The N-Line version of the Elantra gets a turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder engine that makes 139-horsepower. There is also the performance-oriented N version of the Elantra, which utilizes a turbo 2.0L four-cylinder to create 276-horsepower. Both of these engines can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a dual-clutch automatic. Eco-conscious consumers can choose the Elantra Hybrid. It is built on a 1.6L engine that can create 139-horsepower, and it is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Similarly, the Civic offers multiple powertrains to choose from in 2022. The standard is a 2.0L four-cylinder that makes 158-horsepower. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission. Select hatchback models can swap that out for a six-speed manual.

The 2022 Civic offers a range of trim levels, with the EX and EX-L providing 180 horsepower from their turbo 1.5L four cylinders. For those looking to take things up a notch, there is also the Si sedan model: boasting an identical powertrain but tuned for 200 horses across six speeds paired with larger brakes and sport suspension as standard features. All models come equipped exclusively with front wheel drive technology.

Whether you're going for efficiency or performance, the Elantra has something to offer. Standard models boast an impressive 33mpg in city driving and 43mpg on highways – perfect for those looking to save at the pump. If power is more important than fuel economy, N-Line variants with a manual transmission get 25/34 mpg while automatic versions provide even better results of 28/36 - still quite economical but offering that extra oomph! For maximum performance under the hood though, Elantra N's lower MPG estimates are hard to beat: 22/31 (manual) 20/30 (automatic).

The Elantra Hybrid's fuel economy varies by trim level--ranging from 54 mpg combined for the Blue to 50 mpg combined for the Limited. While Civic models previously came with a hybrid powertrain, this option is currently unavailable; however, there are rumors that it may return in upcoming variations of Honda's popular model.

The Honda Civic's efficient performance is greatly admired - its base engine offers impressive fuel economy of 31mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, while its more powerful option even ups those figures to an admirable 32mpg/42mph. Despite this praiseworthy accomplishment, it can't quite reach Hyundai Elantra's remarkable standard engine numbers.

Hyundai has set a new standard for vehicle warranties. Drivers who opt for the Elantra benefit from an unrivaled 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and five years of limited coverage up to 60K miles. Civic drivers can look forward to a solid 5 year/60K mile guarantee on their powertrains as well as three years or 36,000 miles of limited protection.

Drivability

Both the 2022 Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra have established themselves as fun-to-drive cars, and this remains true for their latest iterations. The Elantra is highly maneuverable, easy to park, and offers great stopping power, as well as well-weighted steering. Opting for the N trim will reward drivers with adaptive shock absorbers and larger brakes, making for a more thrilling driving experience. Meanwhile, the Civic is known for providing passengers with a comfortable ride while still delivering an engaging drive for the driver, thanks to its responsive steering and strong brakes.

The Elantra and Civic offer ample space for passengers and cargo, with slight differences in their respective measurements. The Elantra provides 14.2 cubic feet of trunk space, while the Civic sedan offers slightly more with 14.8 cubic feet. For those in need of more storage, the Civic hatchback boasts a generous 24.5 cubic feet. Both models accommodate up to five passengers, with the Civic standing out for its spacious and comfortable cabin. The Elantra, while offering ample room up front, may feel cramped for adult passengers in the back. Visibility is a strong suit for the Civic, with excellent sightlines in all directions. The Elantra offers good visibility, but the design of its roofline may hinder rear visibility.

Those who opt for the mighty Elantra shall be bestowed with a grand 8-inch touchscreen, whilst the valiant Civic shall only be graced with a 7-inch touchscreen. For the Elantra's humblest trim, wireless renditions of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay shall be gifted. Though it be known that all Civic models possess these powerful smartphone integration tools, only the loftiest of trims shall receive their wireless forms.

With the 2022 Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra, drivers can combine state-of-the art visuals with powerful audio experiences. The Honda boasts a 9-inch touchscreen and 10.2 inch digital instrument panel - you have the option to upgrade from 4 speakers all the way up to 12 for an incredible soundscape! Meanwhile, if you choose Elantra's sleek design then get ready for its impressive 10.25'' touch screen – paired alongside your standard four speaker system upgradable to 8 loudspeakers so that every journey is backed by quality acoustics.

Safety

With exemplary crash testing scores, the Elantra and Civic are two of the safest vehicles on today's roads. In fact, both have earned "Good" ratings in all six categories evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety - a feat that wasn't overlooked as 2022 Elantra was named a "Top Safety Pick," with its sedan and hatchback counterparts taking it one step further to receive an even more impressive “Top Safety Pick” title.

Hyundai's 2022 Elantra provides an impressive range of driver safety features with no cost to the buyer. Standard amenities encompass pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning for optimal security on the road. Additionally, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert come standard in all models while secure exit warnings adds further assurance that occupants are safe when exiting their vehicles.

For the modern driver, both the Civic and Elantra offer an array of features to keep you safe on your journey. Enjoy peace of mind from amenities like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, rear seat reminder technology, adaptive cruise control and more! Plus for added protection in uncertain driving conditions - automatic high beams are included standard with each model as well traffic sign recognition exclusive to Honda's offering.

Those who choose the Elantra Limited will get a highway driving assist feature, which essentially combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering. Other available Elantra driver aids include cyclist detection, rear collision warning, and rear parking sensors. Top Civic trim levels add things like blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Which Has the Best Value?

Boasting an impressive base price, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra provides a viable option for those seeking quality on a budget. Drivers searching for luxury can upgrade to the Limited or sporty N-Line trims - both offering robust features at competitive prices of $25,600 and $24,250 respectively.

Taking style and performance to another level, the 2022 Honda Civic is a perfect blend of quality craftsmanship and affordability. Starting at just $21,700 for its enhanced sedan model or $22,900 for the hatchback variant - there's something to suit all budgets. For those that demand only premium features however; you can expect prices up to 28300 (sedan) or 29400 (hatchback). Invest wisely in this highly regarded car today.

Both the entry-level Civic and Elantra come at attractive prices, making it difficult for buyers to determine which vehicle is best suited for their needs. However, weighing features can help make this decision easier - The Elantra offers a larger touchscreen display than its counterpart along with blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert as standard equipment. On the other hand, drivers looking for high-tech amenities may find advanced cruise control and an elevated cabin experience in the Civic more appealing.

For those seeking a cost-effective car, the Elantra SE and Civic LX sedans are two of the top contenders. To make sure you get bang for your buck, it pays to do some comparison shopping when deciding between these popular models. With an assumed annual mileage of 15,000 miles taking into account ownership costs can help ensure that whichever choice is made offers lasting value well beyond purchasing price.

With its impressive reputation for strong resale value, the Civic LX sedan offers an attractive long-term ownership option that is estimated to depreciate less over a five year period than Elantra SE's $8,500 loss. However, when it comes to costs at the pump during this same span of time, potential owners should consider taking home the Elantra SE instead - as fuel expenses are projected at a more wallet friendly cost of only $8,800. But if you're looking for even greater gas savings? Opting in on an Elantra Hybrid Blue model will set you back just around six grand.

If you're looking for cost-effectiveness when it comes to maintenance and repairs, the Elantra is your car of choice. Over five years there's a significant difference in repair costs between these two models - Elantra owners spend about $525 on average while those driving a Civic can expect upwards of $600. When considering upkeep too, maintaining an Elantra over five years will only set you back around $2,500 compared to the approximately doubled amount that Civic drivers need at nearly triple ($3200).

Which is Better?

With its lower purchase and ownership costs, the 2022 Elantra is an economical choice for drivers seeking a modern ride. It offers state-of-the art features like a standard touchscreen display and blind spot monitoring not found in entry level Civics - plus it has hybrid powertrain as well! However, Honda's Civic retains better resale values and provides more sophistication inside the cabin.

On the other hand, the redesigned 2022 Civic has a more upscale cabin. It utilizes premium materials and offers a bit more space in the backseat. The trunk is a little larger as well. While both of these sedans are fun to drive, the Civic is the more athletic of the two. It can also potentially be worth considerably more when it is time to trade it in or sell it.

Searching for a great value on an everyday sedan? The 2022 Hyundai Elantra is the perfect pick, offering all you need without anything extra. But if it's luxury and style that piques your interest, then be sure to check out the new Honda Civic – it offers drivers sophistication every time they get behind the wheel.