2019 Hyundai Elantra vs 2020 Toyota Corolla

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant redesign, featuring new styling elements forward of the windshield and front doors, along with redesigned wheels, a new trunk lid, taillights, and rear bumper. The design was described as kaleidoscopic, with a focus on geometric patterns, which some found less appealing than previous models. Inside, the Elantra received subtle improvements, such as new air vents, carbon-texture finishes on some plastic housings, and updated gauges and dashboard controls. The interior was noted for its high-quality feel, with a robust shifter and tightly assembled parts, although some materials felt inexpensive. The Elantra was available in various trims, with the Ultimate trim offering advanced features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and a larger touchscreen display.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, with its redesigned look, was not initially considered pretty, but the SE and XSE trims, especially with the Celestite paint colour, offered a more attractive appearance. The interior quality improved significantly, with soft-touch surfaces replacing the cheap plastics of previous models. However, the transmission shifter reminded drivers of the Corolla's economy car status. The Corolla's base MSRP was slightly higher than the Elantra's, and it offered various trims, including a hybrid option for maximum fuel efficiency. The XSE trim provided a sportier driving experience, although it lacked the power to fully satisfy enthusiastic drivers.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra, particularly in the Ultimate trim, was equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the Elantra offered Normal, Sport, and Smart driving modes, the driving dynamics were not particularly inspiring. The car's fuel efficiency was rated at 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with real-world testing showing similar results. Handling was decent, but the ride quality was affected by the torsion-beam rear-axle suspension, making it less rewarding to drive.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota Corolla offered a more engaging driving experience, especially in the SE and XSE trims, which featured a 169-horsepower, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. The Corolla's independent rear suspension provided a smooth and stable ride, and the car's handling was confidence-inspiring. However, the Corolla XSE struggled with acceleration, lacking the power to fully exploit its sporty potential. The CVT performed well during commutes, and the Corolla's fuel efficiency was rated at 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with real-world testing showing slightly higher consumption.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra offered good front-seat comfort, with height-adjustable seats and heated front seats standard across all trims in Canada. The backseat comfort was less impressive, with hard plastic front seatbacks and a lack of rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. Interior storage was decent, with a good-sized centre-console storage bin and a wireless charging pad in the Ultimate trim. The Elantra's trunk provided 408 litres of cargo space, which was generous for a compact car.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, while smaller than a Camry, accommodated a family of four for various trips. However, the lack of rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports, along with the absence of a front seat height adjuster, led to discomfort for some passengers. The driver's seat was comfortable, and the climate control system was effective. The Corolla's interior storage was limited, with small cupholders and a lack of storage bins. The trunk offered 371 litres of space, sufficient for several bags and a compact stroller.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra came with a standard rear-view camera and Bluetooth connectivity. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate trim offered an 8-inch display, an Infinity premium sound system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a good balance of knobs and buttons. The Elantra also provided a five-year trial of Hyundai Bluelink services, offering various safety and convenience functions.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla featured the Entune 3.0 infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay available but not Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a high-mounted touchscreen and familiar controls. Higher trims included an 8-inch display and additional features like HD Radio and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Corolla's infotainment system was well-suited for iPhone users, but Android users might find it lacking.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of driver-assistance and safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection. The Elantra received top marks from the IIHS, except for an Acceptable rating for LATCH anchor accessibility. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign recognition, and Lane Tracing Assist. The system operated with refinement and accuracy, although the lane-departure warning alert was considered irritating. The Corolla received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.