How Does Hyundai Elantra Compare to Honda Civic?

 

 

Gray Hyundai Elantra and silver Honda Civic with versus text in center

2025 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2025 Honda Civic

General Comparison

When it comes to overall value, the Hyundai Elantra stands out with its comprehensive package of features at a competitive price. Both the Elantra and the Civic are attractively priced within the compact sedan segment, but the Elantra offers more standard features and starts substantially lower, giving it a real edge in value.

The Elantra also boasts more interior space with more total interior volume and more headroom than Civic, for example. This makes the Elantra a more comfortable choice for those looking to save on gas but still want to enjoy a comfortable car both as a driver and for their passengers.

Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty also gives the Elantra a significant edge in the segment against other compact cars, with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Honda offers a 5 year/60,000 mile on the powertrain.

Verdict: The Hyundai Elantra offers better value with more standard features and a longer standard warranty.

2025 Hyundai Elantra 2025 Honda Civic
Base MSRP $21,875 $24,250
Standard Audio 8″ display w/ 6 speakers 7″ display w/ 4 speakers
Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Standard Available
Variable Intermittent Wipers Standard Available
Alloy Wheels Standard Available
Passenger Volume (cu. ft) 99.4 99.0
Front Headroom (in) 40.6 39.3
Rear Headroom (in) 37.3 37.1
Front Legroom (in) 42.3 42.3
Rear Legroom (in) 38 37.4
Blind-spot monitoring Standard Available
Rear Cross Traffic Alert Standard Available

Safety Features Comparison

Both Hyundai Elantra and Honda Civic get good marks for safety ratings. The 2024 models of each were named an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The Elantra comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced safety features that includes forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. The Civic offers comparable safety features, but not all of them are standard like they are on Elantra. Notably, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which are standard on every Elantra but optional on Civic.

Verdict: The Hyundai Elantra offers additional safety features at a more affordable starting price.

Exterior Design and Features

The Hyundai Elantra’s exterior design is one of its strongest selling points. With its bold and futuristic styling, the Elantra turns heads wherever it goes. The car’s sharp lines, distinctive front grille, and sleek LED headlights give it a modern and sophisticated look. In contrast, the Honda Civic features a more traditional sedan design that isn’t as aggressive..

In terms of exterior features, the Elantra comes standard with LED daytime running lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels, which enhance its sporty appearance. Alloy wheels are optional on Honda Civic. The Elantra also offers more exterior color options, allowing drivers to customize their vehicle to better suit their personal style.

Verdict: The Hyundai Elantra wins in the design category with its cutting-edge aesthetics and superior exterior features.

Red Hyundai Elantra sedan driving

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the Hyundai Elantra excels with a spacious, comfortable, and tech-forward cabin. The Elantra offers more interior space than the Civic, particularly in headroom, where passengers will appreciate the extra legroom. The Elantra’s interior materials are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces and premium accents that create an upscale atmosphere.

The Elantra’s technology also surpasses that of the Civic. It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with 6 speakers. Civic uses a wired connection in the base model and only includes a 7-inch touchscreen with 4 speakers standard. For those seeking more advanced tech, the Elantra offers an available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, digital instrument cluster, and premium audio system. Elantra also offers USB inputs for the rear seat to charge devices, which Honda does not offer.

Verdict: The Hyundai Elantra provides a more comfortable and technologically advanced interior, coupled with superior safety features.

Conclusion

In the comparison between the Hyundai Elantra and Honda Civic, the Elantra emerges as the clear winner. With its superior value, refined performance, striking design, luxurious interior, and advanced technology, the Hyundai Elantra offers a more compelling package for drivers seeking a compact sedan that excels in every category. Whether you’re looking for a car that delivers on comfort, style, or safety, the Elantra is the smarter choice for your next vehicle purchase.

Pinehurst Hyundai in Southern Pines is the smart destination for your next new car or SUV purchase too, with the peace of mind provided by the Advantage Plan. Not only are you protected by America’s Best Warranty, but the ample selection of new Hyundais and satisfaction guarantee mean you can buy with confidence.

*Claims made based on comparison of specifications on manufacturer websites. Information deemed accurate at time of print and distribution; information is subject to change and may vary. Fuel economy figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle’s condition. Do not rely exclusively on vehicle safety systems; these are supplemental systems that do not replace driver attentiveness and caution when driving. It is the driver’s responsibility to be aware of the surroundings and ensure it is clear before changing lanes or directions. Certain features may have limitations in functionality. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations on certain features. Apple CarPlay is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. Android Auto is compatible with Android phones running Android 6.0 or higher. Android Auto may not be available on all devices and is not available in all countries or regions. Additional apps may be required. Android and Android Auto are trademarks of Google LLC. Vehicles depicted are for display purposes only and equipment may vary. Prices exclude destination fees, dealer fees, tax, title, license. See dealer for details.