Hyundai Elantra vs Kia Cerato: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Hyundai Elantra⁩ VS ⁦Kia Cerato⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦Hyundai Elantra⁩ VS ⁦Kia Cerato⁩: the verdict

The Hyundai Elantra emerges as the stronger contender overall, offering superior performance, a wider range of engine options including a fuel-efficient hybrid, and a more versatile cargo space. While the Kia Cerato provides a simpler, petrol-only package with a slightly larger fuel tank for longer drives, it ultimately falls short of the Elantra's dynamic capabilities and modern efficiency. For those prioritizing power and economy, the Elantra is the clear winner.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at80 – 92,000 SAR91 – 93 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine1,580 – 1,999 cc · 4 cyl1,600 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)127 – 159 hp128 hp
Torque (Nm)157 – 264 Nm154 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9.5 s11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 209 km/h190 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)4.7 – 7.4 L/100km6.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity42 – 50 L53 L
Gears66
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeHybrid / PetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m4.6 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,185 – 1,345 kg—
Trunk Capacity (liters)402 – 480 L427 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAir ConditioningAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAluminum WheelsAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBody KItBonnet LightBreakover AngleBumper Side StepCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersCVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)Daytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDVD PlayerElectric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFog LightsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHeated Cooled SeatsHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportManual ACMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSecurity SystemSemi-LED TaillightsSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSuperchargerTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverToolkitTorqueTorque SteerTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTowing HookTPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)Traction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrunk CapacityTurbochargerTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheelbaseWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood TrimXenon Headlamps
12V Socket360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

The Hyundai Elantra wins for performance, offering a higher maximum horsepower of 159 hp and a quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 9.5 seconds, making it more engaging to drive.

2

Best for Fuel Efficiency

For maximum fuel savings, the Hyundai Elantra is the top choice. Its available hybrid powertrain achieves an impressive fuel economy as low as 4.7 L/100km, significantly outperforming the Cerato.

3

Best for Long-Distance Driving

The Kia Cerato is better suited for extended journeys, thanks to its larger 53-liter fuel tank capacity, which allows for fewer stops at the petrol station compared to the Elantra's maximum of 50 liters.

4

Best for Cargo Capacity

The Hyundai Elantra provides more practicality for hauling luggage or groceries, boasting a larger maximum trunk capacity of 480 liters, surpassing the Kia Cerato's 427 liters.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Elantra

Pros

  • Higher max horsepower (159 hp)
  • Quicker acceleration (9.5s)
  • Hybrid powertrain option available
  • Better fuel economy (as low as 4.7 L/100km)
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (480 L)

Cons

  • Smaller maximum fuel tank capacity (50 L)
  • Higher potential price range (up to 91,370 SAR)

Kia Cerato

Pros

  • Larger fuel tank capacity (53 L)
  • Simpler petrol-only engine lineup

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower (128 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (11s)
  • No hybrid option available
  • Worse minimum fuel economy (6.7 L/100km)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato?

The Hyundai Elantra is the faster car, achieving 0-100 km/h in 9.5 seconds, significantly quicker than the Kia Cerato's 11 seconds. For drivers prioritizing acceleration and a higher top speed (up to 209 km/h), the Elantra is the superior choice.

Is the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato more fuel-efficient?

The Hyundai Elantra is more fuel-efficient, especially with its available hybrid powertrain, offering consumption as low as 4.7 L/100km. The petrol-only Kia Cerato's best fuel economy is 6.7 L/100km, making the Elantra the better option for saving on fuel.

Which car offers more cargo space, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato?

The Hyundai Elantra provides more cargo space, with a maximum trunk capacity of 480 liters. The Kia Cerato offers a respectable 427 liters, but if maximizing luggage room is a priority for your daily needs or trips, the Elantra is the winner.

Which car is better for long drives, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato?

While both are comfortable sedans, the Kia Cerato might offer a slight edge for very long drives due to its larger 53-liter fuel tank, potentially providing a longer range between fill-ups. However, the Elantra's superior fuel economy could also mean fewer stops overall.

Does the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato have more engine options?

The Hyundai Elantra offers a wider range of engine options, including a hybrid variant and petrol engines up to 1,999 cc and 159 hp. The Kia Cerato is available with a single 1,600 cc petrol engine producing 128 hp, limiting its versatility.