How Does the Hyundai Elantra Compare to Kia K4?
2025 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2025 Kia K4
General Comparison
Hyundai and Kia have long been popular entrants in the compact car segment. For 2025 Kia has introduced the K4 compact sedan to replace the Forte. When comparing Hyundai Elantra to Kia Forte in the past, Elantra has stood out for offering more space and more efficiency. Is Hyundai Elantra a better value than Kia K4 in small sedans? Let’s compare.
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 Kia K4 are attractively priced within the compact sedan segment, but the Elantra offers more standard features, giving it an edge in value.
| 2025 Hyundai Elantra | 2025 Kia K4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $21,875 | $21,990 |
| Fuel Economy | 32/41/36 | 30/40/34 |
| Available Hybrid | YES | NO |
| Passenger Volume (cu. ft) | 99.4 | 98.7 |
| Front Headroom (in) | 40.6 | 39 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (in) | 55.6 | 54.7 |
| Blind-spot monitoring | Standard | Available |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Available |
Efficiency Comparison
Both the Hyundai Elantra and Kia K4 offer solid performance with their respective powertrains, but the Elantra delivers a more efficient driving experience. The Elantra is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Kia K4 has similar power, but lower estimated fuel economy, rated at 34 mpg combined to the Elantra’s 36. This can add up over time, giving Hyundai Elantra a lower cost of ownership.
The Elantra also offers an available hybrid powertrain for those seeking better fuel efficiency, delivering up to an estimated 51 mpg city/58 highway/54 combined. This engine option still provides spirited driving dynamics while delivering even greater efficiency. Kia doesn’t offer a hybrid on the K4 at all, and no hybrid in the Kia lineup for as low as the pricepoint of Elantra Hybrid.
Verdict: The Hyundai Elantra offers a more fuel efficient package while still providing a dynamic driving experience.
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 Kia K4, while stylish, features harder-edged lines and design cues that are less user-friendly, such as the hidden rear door handles that are higher for shorter passengers to reach.
In terms of exterior features, the Elantra comes standard with LED daytime running lights and alloy wheels, which enhance its sporty appearance. Alloy wheels are optional on Kia K4. 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.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Hyundai Elantra excels with a spacious, comfortable, and tech-forward cabin. The Elantra offers more overall interior space than the K4 for passengers front and rear, with more front headroom and more rear shoulder room. 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 K4. It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also features 6 speakers standard, versus Kia K4’s 4 speakers. For those seeking more advanced tech, the Elantra offers an available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, digital instrument cluster, and premium audio system.
In terms of safety, 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 K4 offers comparable safety features, but they’re not all standard like they are on Elantra. Like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which are standard on every Elantra but optional on Kia K4.
Verdict: The Hyundai Elantra provides a more comfortable and technologically advanced interior, coupled with more standard safety features.
Conclusion
Despite new challenges from the new Kia K4, the Elantra remains the clear winner by comparison. Hyundai Elantra stands out with its comprehensive package of features at a lower starting price. With its superior value, refined performance, striking design, luxurious interior, and advanced technology, the Hyundai Elantra offers the smarter 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 right choice for your next vehicle purchase.
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