Hyundai Elantra vs. Honda Civic: What's The Difference?

Published October 30, 2022
in Car Comparisons

Not everyone shopping for a car these days is searching for an SUV; compact sedans are still alive and well. Two such examples are the Hyundai Elantra and the Honda Civic. Read on as we check out the Hyundai Elantra vs. Honda Civic match-up.

Specifically, we’re only looking at 2023 standard sedan models for each nameplate. Honda also produces the Civic Hatchback and performance-focused Civic Si, while Hyundai builds the Elantra Hybrid and zippy Elantra N. We’ll save those comparisons for another time.

Read on as we look at prices, features, and other factors.

Pricing

The Hyundai Elantra vs. Honda Civic comparison begins with the bottom line. The base Elantra starts at $20,500, making it one of the cheapest new cars on the market. But Hyundai also offers the loaded Elantra Limited, which sells for $26,350. Buyers can also split the difference by choosing the mid-tier SEL at $23,650 with the optional Convenience Package.

Pricing for the Honda Civic starts at $24,650 for the entry-level Sport version. The automaker offers two higher trims: the EX for $26,050 and the top-tier Touring at $29,650.

Verdict: No matter how you look at (or line up the different trims), the Elantra comes out ahead as far as price. A difference of more than $3,000 at the higher end is significant, especially as shoppers in this segment are budget conscious.

Note: All pricing is based on manufacturer-supplied information and excludes destination charges.

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Appearance

Compact sedans generally don’t have a reputation for cutting-edge design and head-turning styling. Still, the looks of the Elantra and Civic have come a long way from their respective econobox origins.

Hyundai completely redesigned the Elantra in 2020 with crisp body panels, distinctive lighting, and an upscale appearance. All these elements, along with a wide-mouth grille, give the seventh-generation Elantra quite an unusual design compared to earlier versions.

Honda debuted the all-new Civic for the 2022 model year, the eleventh generation of the car that helped establish Honda’s U.S. beachhead five decades ago. While Honda enjoys a solid reputation for its engineering prowess, it’s never been known for car designs that make a splash.

Instead, the company prefers to build vehicles that neither offend nor excite. It’s an approach that’s worked quite well over the years. The Civic mirrors the looks of its big brother, the Accord, with gently sculpted body panels, a tall greenhouse, and a hatchback-like profile (even for a sedan).

Verdict: Because looks are up to the buyer, we’ll call this Hyundai Elantra vs. Honda Civic contest a toss-up. Shoppers looking for something bold will go for the Elantra, but those seeking a more understated ride will choose the Civic.

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Powertrain

A vehicle comparison like this Hyundai Elantra vs. Honda Civic comparison often comes down to what’s under the hood. And while both of these vehicles rely on four cylinders, there are substantial differences between the two.

All Elantras (except for the Hybrid and N versions) use the same 2.0-liter engine, making 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It’s a plain-Jane powerplant without any turbos or superchargers and is EPA-estimated to deliver 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway (the SE gets 33 city/42 highway).

Honda offers two different engines. The base Civic Sport gets a naturally aspirated (non-turbo) 2.0-liter, producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, a slightly more powerful engine than the Elantra. However, the Civic in EX or Touring form is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder. It’s a tiny but mighty offering, cranking out a healthy 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. But despite the extra oomph, the Civic promises fuel economy close to or matching the Elantra (Civic Sport=30 city/37 highway, EX=33 city/42 highway, and Touring=31 city/38 highway).

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Verdict: With two engine choices and competitive fuel economy, the Honda Civic sedan drives away with the gold when it comes to powertrains.

Interior Space

Although the Elantra and Civic are marketed as five-passenger vehicles, the truth is either back seat is a tight squeeze for three adults. Keep this in mind if your travels involve a fully-occupied vehicle. Let’s drill down into specific interior capacities and measurements.

*without sunroof

A look at the table uncovers two cars that are almost identical when it comes to interior space. And any distinctions are minor, with the Elantra having a slight edge with the front legroom (an extra 1.3 inches).

Verdict: We’ll call this round a draw. These cars are highly competitive, so it’s no surprise that the Elantra and Civic are closely matched when it comes to cabin spaciousness.

Warranty

One of Hyundai’s strongest marketing points is a generous warranty. All Hyundais benefit from five years (or 60,000 miles) of bumper-to-bumper protection and ten years (or 100,000 miles) of powertrain coverage. Hyundai also includes three years of free maintenance and five years of roadside assistance.

Meanwhile, Honda relies on its reputation to provide a more standard warranty spanning three years (or 36,000) for bumper-to-bumper protection and powertrain coverage that lasts for five years (or 60,000 miles). Civic buyers are on their own paying for maintenance services.

Verdict: When it comes to the manufacturer’s warranty, the Elantra is the hands-down winner.

Wrap-Up

Compact sedan buyers driven chiefly by price or warranty coverage will likely head to their nearest Hyundai dealer. But there are other things to consider for some shoppers. The Civic is appealing for its long track record, Honda’s stellar reputation for reliability, and a more conventional design. Purchasing either the Elantra or the Civic is a safe bet.

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