If you’re in the market for a compact sedan, there’s a good chance you’re comparing the 2025 Hyundai Elantra with the 2025 Toyota Corolla. I did the same—and lucky for me, I had the keys to both for a few days. I drove them around Erie, from downtown traffic to a loop around Presque Isle. And by the end of it? The Elantra felt like a car built for now, while the Corolla felt like it was still playing catch-up.
Here’s what really stood out.
I’ll be honest—when I first walked up to the 2025 Elantra, it didn’t look like your typical compact car. The sharp lines, bold front grille, and futuristic lighting give it a sporty, high-end vibe. Hyundai really leaned into design this year, and it shows.
Inside, the cabin feels more modern and upscale than you'd expect at this price point. The driver-centric layout and available ambient lighting add a touch of class I didn’t feel in the Corolla.
The Corolla’s design is clean and safe—but maybe a bit too safe. It doesn’t stand out as much, and the interior, while functional, feels more traditional and a bit tighter.
On the road, the Elantra immediately felt lighter and more connected. I drove the standard 2.0L 4-cylinder, and it handled city traffic and highway cruising with ease. The suspension is tuned for comfort but doesn’t feel floaty, and the steering is responsive.
The Corolla’s engine also gets the job done, but it felt more sluggish—especially during highway merges. It does offer a hybrid version with better MPG, but so does Hyundai. And the Elantra Hybrid? It still brings more flair inside and out.
Hyundai is doing some big things with in-car tech. The 2025 Elantra comes with an available 10.25-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster that looks and feels high-end. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard—and wireless on most trims. I especially liked the voice control features when I was driving solo.
The Corolla's infotainment system is decent, but smaller and not quite as intuitive. Toyota’s system has improved, but Hyundai’s interface is just easier to use on the go.
Hyundai is doing some big things with in-car tech. The 2025 Elantra comes with an available 10.25-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster that looks and feels high-end. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard—and wireless on most trims. I especially liked the voice control features when I was driving solo.
The Corolla's infotainment system is decent, but smaller and not quite as intuitive. Toyota’s system has improved, but Hyundai’s interface is just easier to use on the go.
Both cars come loaded with safety features, but Hyundai’s SmartSense suite includes everything I needed—and more.
The Corolla also offers Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and the systems are fairly even on paper. But from behind the wheel, the alerts and assistance in the Elantra felt less intrusive and more natural.
| Feature | 2025 Hyundai Elantra | 2025 Toyota Corolla |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 2.0L I4 – 147 hp / 132 lb-ft | 2.0L I4 – 169 hp / 151 lb-ft |
| Hybrid Available | Yes | Yes |
| Transmission | Smartstream IVT (CVT) | CVT |
| Max Display Size | 10.25" (dual available) | 8" or optional 12.3" cluster |
| Passenger Volume | 99.4 cu. ft. | 88.6 cu. ft. |
| Trunk Space | 14.2 cu. ft. | 13.1 cu. ft. |
| Safety Tech | Hyundai SmartSense | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes (on most trims) | Limited availability |
The 2025 Elantra outshines competitors with its refined design, smooth ride, and quiet interior. It offers maximized usable space and integrated smart technology for seamless connectivity and advanced safety. Ideal for any driver, the Elantra delivers an exceptional experience without a high price.
There’s nothing quite like the experience of seeing and feeling a car in person. We invite you to visit us at Dave Hallman Hyundai in Erie and take the exciting 2025 Elantra for a spin. Our knowledgeable team will be delighted to walk you through all the available trims, answer any questions you may have, and help you find a vehicle you’ll absolutely love driving every single day. We look forward to helping you discover your perfect Hyundai.
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