Nissan maxima vs hyundai elantra: battle of the midsize sedans
What To Know
- While the Maxima is more expensive, it offers a more powerful engine, a more spacious cabin, and a more comprehensive list of features.
- The Hyundai Elantra has better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway compared to the Maxima’s 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- The Maxima received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all IIHS crash tests, while the Elantra also earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating….
The automotive landscape is constantly evolving, and with it, the competition between renowned manufacturers. The Nissan Maxima and Hyundai Elantra are two such vehicles that have garnered significant attention in the midsize sedan segment. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of these two rivals, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition.
Performance and Power
The Nissan Maxima boasts a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. This potent powertrain delivers exhilarating acceleration and effortless cruising on the open road. Conversely, the Hyundai Elantra features a more modest 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. While adequate for daily commutes, the Elantra’s performance falls short of the Maxima’s spirited demeanor.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its impressive performance, the Nissan Maxima still manages to achieve respectable fuel economy. With an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, the Maxima balances power and efficiency. The Hyundai Elantra, with its smaller engine, excels in this category, offering an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Nissan Maxima provides ample room for both front and rear passengers. The spacious cabin features comfortable seats, a well-appointed dashboard, and a generous amount of legroom. The Hyundai Elantra, while slightly smaller, still offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior. However, the Maxima’s larger dimensions give it a slight edge in terms of overall space and comfort.
Features and Technology
The Nissan Maxima comes standard with an array of advanced features, including an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium Bose audio system. The Hyundai Elantra, while less feature-rich, still offers a decent selection of amenities, such as a 7-inch touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system.
Safety
Both the Nissan Maxima and Hyundai Elantra have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Maxima received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all IIHS crash tests. The Elantra also earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in most IIHS crash tests.
Price and Value
The Nissan Maxima starts at a price of $37,490, while the Hyundai Elantra has a base price of $21,650. While the Maxima is more expensive, it offers a more powerful engine, a more spacious cabin, and a more comprehensive list of features. The Elantra, on the other hand, represents a more budget-friendly option with good fuel economy and a solid safety record.
Final Note
The Nissan Maxima and Hyundai Elantra are two compelling choices in the midsize sedan segment. The Maxima excels in performance, space, and features, while the Elantra offers a more affordable option with good fuel economy and safety. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which car is more powerful, the Maxima or the Elantra?
The Nissan Maxima is more powerful, with a 300-horsepower V6 engine compared to the Elantra’s 147-horsepower inline-four engine.
2. Which car has better fuel economy, the Maxima or the Elantra?
The Hyundai Elantra has better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway compared to the Maxima’s 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
3. Which car has a more spacious interior, the Maxima or the Elantra?
The Nissan Maxima has a more spacious interior, with more legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.
4. Which car has more advanced features, the Maxima or the Elantra?
The Nissan Maxima has more advanced features, including an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium Bose audio system.
5. Which car is safer, the Maxima or the Elantra?
Both the Nissan Maxima and Hyundai Elantra have earned high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. The Maxima received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all IIHS crash tests, while the Elantra also earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in most IIHS crash tests.