Battle of the budget legends: subaru impreza vs. hyundai elantra – which one wins your wallet?

The Subaru Impreza and Hyundai Elantra are two popular compact cars that offer a blend of practicality, efficiency, and style. Deciding between these two models can be a challenging task, as they both have their unique strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Subaru Impreza vs Hyundai Elantra to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Handling

The Subaru Impreza comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Hyundai Elantra, on the other hand, offers a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 198 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of handling, the Impreza boasts a standard all-wheel-drive system that provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. The Elantra, however, is only available with front-wheel drive, which may be a disadvantage in slippery or off-road situations.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for compact car buyers. The Subaru Impreza with all-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Hyundai Elantra, with its front-wheel-drive setup, offers slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.

Interior Comfort and Space

Both the Subaru Impreza and Hyundai Elantra offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Impreza has a slightly larger interior volume than the Elantra, providing more legroom and headroom for passengers. The Elantra, however, has a more modern and upscale interior design, with high-quality materials and advanced features.

Technology and Safety Features

The Subaru Impreza comes standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Hyundai Elantra, on the other hand, offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen with more advanced features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In terms of safety, both the Impreza and Elantra have received top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Impreza has a slight edge in safety features, as it comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver assistance systems, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

Price and Value

The Subaru Impreza has a starting price of $19,795, while the Hyundai Elantra starts at $20,650. The Impreza offers a lower starting price, but the Elantra provides a more powerful engine, better fuel economy, and a more advanced interior.

Which Car is Right for You?

The Subaru Impreza is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize all-wheel drive, safety, and value. It offers a spacious interior, a capable engine, and a comprehensive suite of safety features at a competitive price.

The Hyundai Elantra is a better option for those who seek a more powerful engine, better fuel economy, and a more modern and upscale interior. It also offers a range of advanced technology and safety features, making it a well-rounded compact car.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which car has a better warranty?
A: The Hyundai Elantra has a longer warranty than the Subaru Impreza, with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty compared to the Impreza’s 5-year/60,000-mile warranty.

Q: Does the Subaru Impreza come with a manual transmission?
A: Yes, the Subaru Impreza offers a six-speed manual transmission as an option on some trim levels.

Q: Is the Hyundai Elantra available with a hybrid powertrain?
A: Yes, the Hyundai Elantra offers a hybrid version called the Elantra Hybrid, which combines a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency.