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 emerges as the stronger contender for drivers prioritizing modern efficiency and dynamic performance. Its available hybrid powertrain and quicker acceleration give it a clear edge. However, the Toyota Corolla remains a steadfast choice for those valuing traditional reliability and a larger single-fill fuel range, despite its more modest performance figures.
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Price Comparison
Starting at76,250 – 132,000 AED—
Engine & Power
Engine1,580 – 1,999 cc · 4 cyl1,600 – 2,000 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)127 – 159 hp121 – 143 hp
Torque (Nm)157 – 264 Nm154 – 187 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9 – 9.5 s10.2 – 12 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 209 km/h189 – 200 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)4.7 – 7.4 L/100km6.8 – 7.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity42 – 50 L55 L
Gears64
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeHybrid / PetrolPetrol
Battery Size1.3 kWh—
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 kg1,265 – 1,315 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
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Body Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFront Seat ArmrestHalogen HeadlampsImmobilizerKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorManual ACNumber of SpeakersOdometerPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear Window DefoggerSeat Adjustment - ManualSteering Tilt AdjustmentUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - Steel

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Fuel Economy

The Hyundai Elantra is the clear winner here, especially with its hybrid variant achieving as low as 4.7 L/100km, significantly outperforming the petrol-only Toyota Corolla.

2

Best for Driving Performance

For a more engaging drive, the Hyundai Elantra takes the lead with up to 159 hp and faster 0-100 km/h acceleration in 9 seconds, compared to the Corolla's 143 hp and slower 10.2 seconds.

3

Best for Longer Journeys

The Toyota Corolla offers a larger 55 L fuel tank, providing a greater range between fill-ups, which might appeal to drivers undertaking frequent long-distance trips.

4

Best for Modern Options

The Hyundai Elantra provides more contemporary powertrain choices, including a hybrid option and a 6-speed transmission, offering a more advanced driving experience than the Corolla's petrol-only, 4-speed setup.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Elantra

Pros

  • Superior fuel efficiency with hybrid option (as low as 4.7 L/100km)
  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 159 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (0-100 km/h in 9 seconds)
  • More advanced 6-speed transmission
  • Modern and distinctive design aesthetic

Cons

  • Smaller fuel tank capacity (42-50 L) compared to Corolla
  • Smaller minimum trunk space

Toyota Corolla

Pros

  • Larger 55 L fuel tank capacity for extended range
  • Consistent 470 L trunk space
  • Toyota's renowned reputation for reliability

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower (up to 143 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds)
  • Higher minimum fuel consumption (6.8 L/100km)
  • No hybrid powertrain option

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more fuel-efficient, the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla?

The Hyundai Elantra is significantly more fuel-efficient, particularly its hybrid variant which can achieve as low as 4.7 L/100km. The petrol-only Toyota Corolla's fuel economy starts at 6.8 L/100km. If fuel savings are your priority, the Elantra with its hybrid option is the better choice for everyday commuting in the UAE.

Which car offers better performance, the Elantra or Corolla?

The Hyundai Elantra generally offers superior performance. It boasts up to 159 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds, while the Toyota Corolla reaches up to 143 hp with a slower acceleration of 10.2 seconds. For a more dynamic driving experience, the Elantra is the stronger performer.

Is the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla better for long-distance driving in the UAE?

For long-distance driving, the Toyota Corolla might be marginally better due to its larger 55 L fuel tank, potentially offering a longer range between fill-ups. While the Elantra's hybrid option offers better efficiency overall, its smaller fuel tank means more frequent stops. Consider the Corolla for fewer refueling stops on extended journeys.

Which car has more advanced features, the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla?

The Hyundai Elantra generally offers more advanced powertrain features, including an available hybrid option and a 6-speed automatic transmission, compared to the Corolla's petrol-only setup with a 4-speed automatic. The Elantra's modern offerings provide a more contemporary driving experience.

What is the price difference between the Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla in the UAE?

The Hyundai Elantra is priced between 76,250 – 132,000 AED in the UAE. Unfortunately, specific pricing for the Toyota Corolla was not provided. Shoppers interested in the Corolla should check with local dealerships for current pricing information.