MSRP*: $17,450
Fuel Capacity: 14.0 gal.
Cargo Space: 14.4 cu.ft.
MSRP*: $19,600
Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gal.
Cargo Space: 13.0 cu.ft.
Serving Memphis, TN
The 2020 model year finds two of the more popular compact sedans—the Hyundai Elantra and the Toyota Corolla—at different points in their respective production cycles. As one of the longest-running and best-selling nameplates around, the Corolla is completely redesigned for its twelfth generation of production. Meanwhile, the Elantra is nearing the end of its sixth. While both vehicles receive a substantial number of changes, here are three reasons why you should go with the 2020 Hyundai Elantra rather than the 2020 Toyota Corolla:
If you want to get the most out of your powertrain, both vehicles have options. On the Elantra, you can go with the Sport trim, which is unique with its 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (I4) engine that produces 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. On the Corolla, you would need to go for the SE or XSE trim to maximize total output with a 2.0-liter I4. However, at 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, this engine produces 32 less horsepower and 44 less lb-ft of torque than the Elantra’s turbocharged workhorse.
On the other hand, if you price the economy above acceleration ability, go for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra’s appropriately named Eco trim. This is the only model that is powered by a 1.4-liter I4, which is the smallest of the three engine options available on the vehicle. Better yet, this engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Unique to the Eco, the dual-clutch transmission stands out because it has two clutches: one for even-numbered gears and the other for odd-numbered gears. This enables faster gear switching than a traditional automatic or manual transmission, thus preventing lag from occurring. This Eco powertrain ultimately provides a fuel economy of 33 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. To maximize fuel efficiency on the 2020 Toyota Corolla, you will have to go with the base-level L trim, which combines the standard 1.8-liter I4 with the CVT. However, it produces 30/38 mpg, which is three less mpg in combined fuel economy than the Elantra’s peak numbers.
Although a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard on both Hyundai and Toyota vehicles, they vary in terms of performance. The CVT on the Elantra—officially known as the Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission—is brand-new to the nameplate and performs what it’s designed to do: make the driving experience much smoother due to the lack of gear shifting. By contrast, the CVT on the Corolla is inconsistent in delivering power to the wheels, and it causes a delay in accelerating from a complete stop.
For more information on the 2020 Hyundai Elantra, rather than the 2020 Toyota Corolla, call us today at our dealership in Memphis, Tennessee. With sterling aggregated reviews on platforms such as Google, Cars.com, and CarGurus, we are always committed to providing exceptional customer service. One of our Hyundai sales specialists will be more than happy and willing to assist you.
