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 buyers prioritizing performance and cargo space. With its more powerful engine options and larger trunk, the Elantra offers a more dynamic driving experience and greater practicality. However, the Corolla remains a strong contender for its slightly lower entry price and renowned fuel efficiency, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious commuters.
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Price Comparison
Starting at76,000 – 89,000 AED74,900 – 85,900 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,580 – 1,999 cc · 4 cyl1,200 – 1,800 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)127 – 159 hp116 – 121 hp
Torque (Nm)157 – 264 Nm142 – 185 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9.5 s10 – 11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 209 km/h190 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)4.7 – 7.4 L/100km4.5 – 7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity42 – 50 L43 – 50 L
Gears6—
TransmissionAutomaticCVT
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeHybrid / PetrolHybrid / Petrol
Battery Size1.3 kWh—
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 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 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
360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringAirbagsAnti theft alarmAuto Dimming MirrorAUXBluetoothBonnet LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Door MirrorsChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionCruise ControlDifferential LockDisc BrakesDoor Handles - Other ColorEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorFire ExtinguisherFog Lamps - Front OnlyFront BumperGas Shock AbsorberHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHill AssistImmobilizerLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsManual ACMP3Multi-Information DisplayNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear BlindsRear CameraRear LampsRear Window DefoggerRemote StartSeatbeltsSpare WheelSteering Tilt AdjustmentTouchscreenTrip ComputerTrip MeterUSB PortVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Wheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelWinchWireless Headphones

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

The Hyundai Elantra wins here with its higher power output of up to 159 hp and quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration of 9.5 seconds, offering a more engaging drive than the Corolla.

2

Best for Cargo Space

For those needing more room for luggage or groceries, the Hyundai Elantra is the clear choice, boasting a significantly larger trunk capacity of up to 480 liters compared to the Corolla's 368 liters.

3

Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers

The Toyota Corolla offers a more accessible entry point, starting at 74,900 AED, making it a slightly more budget-friendly option for those looking to maximize value.

4

Best for Fuel Efficiency (Base Models)

While both offer hybrid options, the Toyota Corolla's most efficient petrol variant achieves 4.5 L/100km, giving it a slight edge for those prioritizing minimal fuel consumption.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Elantra

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 159 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (9.5 seconds 0-100 km/h)
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (480 L)
  • Higher top speed (up to 209 km/h)
  • More traditional automatic transmission (6 gears)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (76,000 AED)
  • Slightly less efficient at its best (4.7 L/100km)
  • No CVT option for those who prefer it

Toyota Corolla

Pros

  • Lower starting price (74,900 AED)
  • Slightly better base fuel economy (4.5 L/100km)
  • Lower maximum price (85,900 AED)
  • Smooth CVT transmission

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower (121 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (10-11 seconds 0-100 km/h)
  • Smaller trunk capacity (368 L)
  • Lower top speed (190 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla better for performance?

The Hyundai Elantra generally offers superior performance compared to the Toyota Corolla. With engine options delivering up to 159 hp and a quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 9.5 seconds, the Elantra provides a more spirited driving experience. The Corolla's maximum power is 121 hp and acceleration is 10-11 seconds. If driving dynamics are a priority, the Elantra is the better choice.

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

The Hyundai Elantra offers significantly more cargo space, making it the better option for those who need to carry more luggage or groceries. Its trunk capacity ranges up to 480 liters, substantially larger than the Toyota Corolla's 368 liters. For practical utility and storage, choose the Elantra.

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

Both the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra offer competitive fuel efficiency, including hybrid variants. The Toyota Corolla has a slight edge in its most efficient petrol variant, achieving 4.5 L/100km compared to the Elantra's best of 4.7 L/100km. For maximum fuel savings, especially in city driving, the Corolla might offer a marginal advantage.

Which car is cheaper, the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla?

The Toyota Corolla generally has a lower entry price point, starting at 74,900 AED, compared to the Hyundai Elantra's starting price of 76,000 AED. The Corolla also has a lower maximum price. If budget is a primary concern, the Toyota Corolla presents a more affordable option across its trim levels.

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

The main differences lie in performance, cargo space, and pricing. The Elantra offers more power (up to 159 hp), faster acceleration (9.5s), and a larger trunk (up to 480 L). The Corolla counters with a slightly lower starting price (74,900 AED) and marginally better base fuel economy (4.5 L/100km). Your choice depends on whether you prioritize dynamic driving and space or initial cost and marginal fuel savings.