Initial Prices

If you are shopping for a small car, chances are that you are on a budget. So we’ll start this comparison with a look at initial prices and operating costs.

 For starters, let’s discuss Elantra vs Civic prices. Whether you are looking at entry level Elantra prices, Elantra Hybrid prices or a higher trim, you’ll probably find you can save money by choosing the Hyundai over the Civic.

 Both models offer a number of trim levels, but only the Elantra and Elantra Hybrid have 8 models that are priced under $30,000. The Honda Civic has only 4 models with a price under $30,000.

Fuel Economy

Looking at fuel economy, you’ll find it is virtually the same. Both cars can earn 32 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway for a combined rate of 36 mpg. These two small cars also have idle stop and go which can further reduce fuel consumption in busy city traffic.

On the other hand, the Elantra Hybrid pulls out ahead of the Civic Hybrid when it comes to the same issue. Elantra Hybrid Blue models can earn 54 mpg combined while Civic Sport Hybrids earn 50 mpg.  

Long Term Ownership Costs

When it comes to long term costs, the best prediction may be tied to the warranties. In every case, it seems that Hyundai comes out ahead.

The three-year Hyundai maintenance plan outlasts the Honda plan by one year and/or 12,000 miles. The five-year Hyundai bumper-to-bumper warranty outlasts Honda by two years and 24,000 miles.  

Most importantly, the 10-year Hyundai powertrain warranty outlasts Honda by 5 years or 40,000 miles. That’s serious reassurance that backs up the Elantra in this competition.  

Size Comparison

The Honda Civic grew bigger in 2024. This new generation celebrated more headroom and legroom as well as a higher passenger volume. Nonetheless, it still falls short of the Elantra’s numbers when it comes to front headroom, rear headroom and -- most importantly -- rear legroom.

There’s a tiny advantage for the Honda trunk at 14.4 cubic feet vs 14.2 cubic feet in the Hyundai. However, this is 0.2 cu ft is unlikely to be noticeable. In this part of the competition, we’d say that the Elantra remains ahead of the Honda Civic in Phoenix.  

Driver Assistance

Honda touchscreens remain smaller and less powerful when compared to rivals. This is especially true when comparing the 7-inch Civic screen with the 8-inch Elantra screen. In another instance, Hyundai lets you step up to a 10.25 inch screen, which is bigger than the largest Honda screen at 9 inches.

Hyundai drivers can count on wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you want this smartphone mirroring to be wireless, you’ll need to step all the way up to the pricey Honda Civic Sport Touring in Phoenix.  

While the Honda promises a high-tech package of driver assistance, it doesn’t include a standard blind spot monitor. It doesn’t have a standard rear cross traffic alert to reduce dangers when parking. To get these Elantra standards, shoppers must choose the Honda Civic Sport trim level.  

If you want better technology, it’s easy to see that the Hyundai Elantra once again pulls ahead of the Honda Civic in Phoenix.  

Conclusion

With the many advantages -- in size, technology, and ownership costs -- it seems logical to put the Hyundai Elantra first on our shopping list.

This smart sedan is available now from your Earnhardt Hyundai -- San Tan dealership. Schedule a test drive today.