Hyundai Elantra vs Toyota Corolla: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

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

⁦Hyundai Elantra⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Corolla⁩: the verdict

The Toyota Corolla narrowly wins this comparison for its superior fuel efficiency and slightly lower starting price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers in KSA. However, the Hyundai Elantra offers a compelling counter-argument with its significantly larger trunk capacity and higher torque, appealing to those needing more practicality and responsive driving feel.
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Price Comparison
Starting at80,000 – 102,200 SAR79,350 – 109,940 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine1,580 – 1,999 cc · 4 cyl1,500 – 2,000 cc · 3 – 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)127 – 159 hp119 – 168 hp
Torque (Nm)157 – 264 Nm142 – 200 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9.5 s9.2 – 11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 209 km/h190 – 200 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)4.7 – 7.4 L/100km4.5 – 6.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity42 – 50 L43 – 50 L
Gears610
TransmissionAutomaticCVT
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeHybrid / PetrolHybrid / Petrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m4.6 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,185 – 1,345 kg1,380 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)402 – 480 L368 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
360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Cruise ControlAirbagsAlloy PedalsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto Retractable Hardtop RoofAUXBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Door MirrorsChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDifferential LockDisc BrakesDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Handles - Other ColorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDVDDVD PlayerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofFire ExtinguisherFog Lamps - Front OnlyFront BrakesFront BumperGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHID HeadlightsHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationManual ACMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off-Road DampersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear LampsRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsSeatbeltsSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterUSB PortVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Wheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Toyota Corolla excels in fuel economy, achieving as low as 4.5 L/100km. This makes it the top choice for drivers in KSA prioritizing lower running costs and fewer trips to the pump.

2

Best for Cargo Space

The Hyundai Elantra offers a considerably larger trunk capacity, reaching up to 480 liters. For shoppers who frequently carry luggage or groceries, the Elantra provides superior practicality.

3

Best for Initial Budget

The Toyota Corolla has a slightly more accessible entry point, starting at 79,350 SAR. Buyers focused on securing the lowest possible upfront cost will find the Corolla a marginal winner.

4

Best for Driving Dynamics

With its higher maximum torque of 264 Nm and a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission, the Hyundai Elantra delivers a more engaging and responsive driving experience compared to the Corolla's CVT.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Elantra

Pros

  • Significantly larger trunk capacity (up to 480 L)
  • Higher maximum torque (up to 264 Nm)
  • Traditional 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Higher top speed (up to 209 km/h)

Cons

  • Slightly higher starting price
  • Less fuel-efficient than its rival
  • Lower maximum horsepower

Toyota Corolla

Pros

  • Better maximum fuel efficiency (as low as 4.5 L/100km)
  • Slightly lower starting price (79,350 SAR)
  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 168 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 9.2 s)

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity
  • Lower maximum torque
  • CVT transmission might not appeal to all drivers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla more fuel-efficient in KSA?

The Toyota Corolla generally offers better fuel efficiency, achieving as low as 4.5 L/100km compared to the Hyundai Elantra's lowest of 4.7 L/100km. For drivers prioritizing lower fuel costs, the Corolla is the stronger choice.

Which car, the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla, has more cargo space?

The Hyundai Elantra provides significantly more trunk capacity, offering up to 480 liters, whereas the Toyota Corolla has 368 liters. If cargo space for groceries or luggage is a priority, the Elantra is the clear winner.

Which car is more affordable: the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla?

The Toyota Corolla has a slightly lower starting price, beginning at 79,350 SAR compared to the Hyundai Elantra's 80,000 SAR. For budget-conscious buyers looking for the lowest entry point, the Corolla offers a marginal advantage.

What are the performance differences between the Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla?

The Toyota Corolla boasts a higher maximum horsepower of 168 hp and can accelerate quicker at 9.2 seconds. However, the Hyundai Elantra offers superior maximum torque at 264 Nm and uses a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission. Choose the Corolla for quicker sprints, or the Elantra for stronger pulling power and a conventional automatic feel.

Which transmission type does the Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla use?

The Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, known for its predictable shifts. In contrast, the Toyota Corolla utilizes a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with 10 simulated gears, which prioritizes smoothness and fuel efficiency.