Hyundai elantra vs chevy cruze: the ultimate subcompact showdown
What To Know
- In terms of transmission options, the Elantra offers a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Cruze comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission.
- The Elantra has received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Elantra offers a more affordable price point and a balanced overall package, while the Cruze provides more power and a more advanced infotainment system.
The compact sedan segment is a fiercely competitive battleground, with automakers vying for supremacy with their offerings. Two prominent contenders in this arena are the Hyundai Elantra and the Chevrolet Cruze. Both vehicles boast impressive features, making it a difficult choice for discerning buyers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of the Hyundai Elantra versus Chevy Cruze to determine which compact sedan emerges victorious.
Performance and Powertrain
The Elantra and Cruze offer a range of engine options to cater to different driving preferences. The Elantra’s standard 2.0-liter inline-four engine produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, while the optional turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivers 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Cruze, on the other hand, comes with a standard 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that generates 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The Cruze also offers a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that produces 252 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of transmission options, the Elantra offers a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Cruze comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many buyers, and both the Elantra and Cruze deliver impressive MPG ratings. The Elantra with the 2.0-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine gets 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The Cruze with the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine achieves 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, while the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine gets 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Comfort
The interiors of the Elantra and Cruze are designed to provide comfort and convenience to occupants. The Elantra features a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The interior materials are of good quality, and the dashboard layout is intuitive and user-friendly. The Cruze also offers a comfortable interior with supportive seats and plenty of space for passengers. The infotainment system is easy to use, and the overall interior design is stylish and modern.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount, and both the Elantra and Cruze come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Elantra has received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Cruze has also received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.
Technology and Features
Both the Elantra and Cruze offer a range of technology and convenience features to enhance the driving experience. The Elantra comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also features a wireless charging pad, a premium audio system, and a sunroof. The Cruze comes with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a Bose premium audio system, a sunroof, and a hands-free liftgate.
Price and Value
The Hyundai Elantra has a starting price of $20,650, while the Chevrolet Cruze has a starting price of $24,495. The Elantra offers a more affordable entry point, while the Cruze comes with a slightly higher price tag. However, the Cruze offers a more powerful engine and a more advanced infotainment system as standard equipment.
The Verdict
The Hyundai Elantra and Chevy Cruze are both excellent compact sedans that offer a compelling combination of performance, fuel economy, safety, and features. The Elantra offers a more affordable price point and a balanced overall package, while the Cruze provides more power and a more advanced infotainment system. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which car has better fuel economy, the Elantra or the Cruze?
A: The Hyundai Elantra has slightly better fuel economy than the Chevy Cruze, especially with the 2.0-liter engine.
Q: Which car has a more powerful engine, the Elantra or the Cruze?
A: The Chevy Cruze has a more powerful engine, especially with the available 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.
Q: Which car has a more spacious interior, the Elantra or the Cruze?
A: The Hyundai Elantra has a slightly more spacious interior than the Chevy Cruze, especially in terms of rear legroom.
Q: Which car has a better safety rating, the Elantra or the Cruze?
A: Both the Hyundai Elantra and the Chevy Cruze have received excellent safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.
Q: Which car is more affordable, the Elantra or the Cruze?
A: The Hyundai Elantra has a lower starting price than the Chevy Cruze.