Luxury vs affordability: elantra and kicks: finding the perfect balance
What To Know
- While the Elantra offers slightly more power, the Kicks excels in fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to the Elantra’s 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
- The Nissan Kicks has better fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to the Elantra’s 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Kicks have received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but the Elantra received a slightly higher overall safety rating from NHTSA.
In the fiercely competitive automotive market, the Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Kicks stand out as two formidable contenders in the compact crossover segment. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, style, and affordability, catering to a wide range of drivers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Hyundai Elantra vs Nissan Kicks, helping you make an informed decision about your next automotive purchase.
Powertrain and Performance
The Hyundai Elantra boasts a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The Nissan Kicks, on the other hand, is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. While the Elantra offers slightly more power, the Kicks excels in fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to the Elantra’s 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
Design and Styling
The Hyundai Elantra exudes a sleek and sophisticated design, featuring sharp lines, a sloping roofline, and a hexagonal grille. The Nissan Kicks, on the other hand, adopts a more rugged and adventurous aesthetic, with a boxier shape, pronounced wheel arches, and a two-tone color scheme. Both vehicles offer a spacious and comfortable interior, with the Elantra providing slightly more legroom and headroom in the front and rear seats.
Features and Technology
The Hyundai Elantra offers a generous array of standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a suite of advanced safety features. The Nissan Kicks also offers a user-friendly infotainment system, along with a variety of convenience and safety features. However, the Elantra has a slight edge in terms of available features, such as a sunroof, leather seats, and a wireless charging pad.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Kicks have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Elantra received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Kicks earned a four-star overall safety rating. In terms of reliability, both vehicles have comparable track records, with the Elantra slightly edging out the Kicks in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study.
Value and Price
The Hyundai Elantra offers a competitive price point, starting at around $20,000 for the base SE trim. The Nissan Kicks, on the other hand, has a slightly lower starting price of around $19,000 for the S trim. However, the Elantra offers more standard features and a higher level of refinement, making it a better value proposition for many consumers.
Which Vehicle is Right for You?
The choice between the Hyundai Elantra vs Nissan Kicks ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize power, performance, and features, the Hyundai Elantra is the clear winner. However, if you value fuel efficiency, affordability, and a rugged design, the Nissan Kicks is an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts
Both the Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Kicks are exceptional compact crossovers that offer a compelling blend of practicality, style, and affordability. By carefully considering the key differences between these two vehicles, you can make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with your driving needs and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Kicks has better fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to the Elantra’s 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has more power?
A: The Hyundai Elantra has more power, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque compared to the Kicks’ 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Kicks have received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but the Elantra received a slightly higher overall safety rating from NHTSA.