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

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

⁦Hyundai Elantra⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Corolla⁩: the verdict

The Hyundai Elantra edges out the Toyota Corolla for drivers prioritizing dynamic performance and advanced powertrain options, including a hybrid. However, the Corolla remains a compelling choice for its exceptional value, lower entry price, and Toyota's legendary reliability. For the budget-conscious seeking a dependable sedan, the Corolla is hard to beat, while the Elantra offers a more spirited and modern driving experience.
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Price Comparison
Starting at76,250 – 133,000 AED73,400 – 96,600 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,580 – 1,999 cc · 4 cyl1,598 – 1,987 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)127 – 159 hp121 – 143 hp
Torque (Nm)157 – 264 Nm154 – 187 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9.5 s9.7 – 11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 209 km/h190 – 195 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)4.7 – 7.4 L/100km5.5 – 6.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity42 – 50 L55 L
Gears6—
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 × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,185 – 1,345 kg1,300 – 1,350 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)402 – 480 L470 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBody KItBonnet LightBumper Side StepCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDVD PlayerElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFog LightsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront 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 LightsLegroomLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving 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 BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSecurity SystemSemi-LED TaillightsSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTowing HookTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Defect IndicatorUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood TrimXenon Headlamps
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAirbagsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter 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)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamp - Rear OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHigh Mount Stop LampImmobilizerIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorManual ACMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelWinchWireless Headphones

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance

The Hyundai Elantra offers a more powerful engine option with 159 hp and quicker acceleration at 9.5 seconds, making it the better choice for those seeking a more engaging drive.

2

Best for Value

With a starting price of 73,400 AED and a significantly lower top-end price, the Toyota Corolla provides superior value for buyers on a tighter budget.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Hyundai Elantra's available hybrid variant boasts an impressive fuel economy of 4.7 L/100km, making it the top pick for maximum fuel savings.

4

Best for Longer Range

The Toyota Corolla features a larger 55-liter fuel tank, offering a longer driving range between fill-ups, ideal for extended journeys.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Elantra

Pros

  • Higher peak horsepower (159 hp)
  • Quicker acceleration (9.5s)
  • Available Hybrid powertrain
  • Potentially larger trunk space (up to 480L)
  • Higher top speed (209 km/h)

Cons

  • Higher maximum price (133,000 AED)
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity
  • Base petrol variants less efficient than Corolla's consistent range

Toyota Corolla

Pros

  • Lower starting price (73,400 AED)
  • More affordable top trim (96,600 AED)
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (55 L)
  • Reputation for reliability

Cons

  • Lower peak performance (143 hp)
  • Slower acceleration
  • No hybrid option available
  • Lower top speed

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla better for performance?

The Hyundai Elantra generally offers better performance, with a higher peak horsepower of 159 hp and quicker acceleration at 9.5 seconds compared to the Toyota Corolla's 143 hp and 9.7-11 seconds. For drivers seeking a more dynamic and responsive ride, the Elantra is the superior choice.

Which car, Elantra or Corolla, is more fuel-efficient in the UAE?

The Hyundai Elantra can be more fuel-efficient, especially with its available hybrid variant achieving as low as 4.7 L/100km. While the Toyota Corolla offers consistent petrol efficiency, the Elantra's hybrid option provides a significant advantage for those prioritizing ultimate fuel savings.

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

The Toyota Corolla is generally more affordable, with a starting price of 73,400 AED and a top-end price of 96,600 AED. The Hyundai Elantra starts slightly higher and can go up to 133,000 AED for its premium trims. For buyers on a strict budget, the Corolla offers better value across its range.

Which has more trunk space, the Elantra or Corolla?

The Hyundai Elantra offers a slightly larger maximum trunk capacity of 480 liters compared to the Toyota Corolla's 470 liters. While both provide ample space, those needing every bit of extra room for luggage or shopping might find the Elantra's top-tier variants more accommodating.