2021 Nissan Sentra vs 2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra stood out with its bold and distinctive design, characterized by sharp creases and dramatic angles, thanks to Hyundai's Sensuous Sportiness design language. The Z-shaped dent in the doors, a controversial design cue, added a unique character to the vehicle, breaking conventional automotive design rules. The Elantra's interior varied in quality depending on the trim level, with the Ultimate trim offering a modern and upscale look with its light gray seats and contrasting black cabin. However, lower-grade interiors were less impressive, with drab black interiors and noticeable glossy black plastic.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Sentra sported an athletic exterior with crisp bends and lines, featuring Nissan's V-Motion grille and expressive headlights. The Sentra offered a range of exterior paint colours, including two-tone options for the SR trim, enhancing its bold look. Inside, the Sentra's layered dash and 8-inch infotainment touchscreen provided a spacious feel, while the flat-bottomed steering wheel added a sporty touch. The second row was roomy, though better suited for two passengers. The Sentra's trunk offered 404 litres of cargo space, with a 60/40 split rear seat for added utility.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. The Elantra Hybrid combined a 1.6-litre Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor, delivering 139 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency. The Elantra N Line featured a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 201 horsepower, while the high-performance Elantra N boasted a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with 276 horsepower. The Elantra's handling varied across trims, with the N Line and N models offering sportier driving experiences.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra was equipped with a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine producing 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. The Sentra's lightweight design and well-sorted CVT provided adequate performance for commuting and city driving. Fuel consumption was competitive, with the Sentra offering a balance of power and efficiency. The Sentra's suspension and steering delivered tidy road manners and cornering, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra was classified as a midsize car, offering a spacious interior with height-adjustable driver’s seat and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. The rear seat provided ample legroom, though the backrest shape lacked upper back support. The Elantra's trunk offered 402 litres of space, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. However, the absence of a height-adjustable front passenger seat and hard plastic upper door panels were drawbacks.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra featured a well-organized interior with a traditional gear selector, open cupholders, and ample storage options. The Sentra's Zero Gravity front seats provided comfort on long rides, with heated front seats standard. The SR Premium grade offered a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a power-sliding glass moonroof. The Sentra's interior design focused on practicality and comfort, making it suitable for long journeys.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Ultimate trim featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a digital instrumentation screen, providing a high-tech experience. The Elantra also offered a Bose premium audio system, enhancing the in-car entertainment experience.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra included a 7-inch touchscreen in the S trim, with an 8-inch touchscreen in SV and SR trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity were standard, along with Bluetooth audio and hands-free features. The SR Premium offered a Bose audio system, providing an upgraded sound experience. While navigation was not available, smartphone integration allowed access to navigation apps.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra featured a new platform with multiple structural collision energy pathways. Most trims included SmartSense, Hyundai's suite of advanced driving assistance systems, offering features like forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive cruise control and Highway Drive Assist.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra came with a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including Nissan's advanced airbag system, tire pressure monitoring, and driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning. The Sentra received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.