The 2025 Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Sentra's style, efficiency, and tech features draw in value-conscious buyers looking for great compact sedans. These affordable four-door cars remain popular despite the SUV craze, particularly with first-time buyers, young professionals, and empty-nesters who don't need hulking vehicles for their daily commutes. We'll compare these vehicles — from what makes them go to how comfy they feel on Texas roads — so you can figure out which one belongs in your garage.
Performance and Engine Capabilities
Under the hood of these rival sedans, you'll find key differences between them. The 2025 Elantra runs on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, featuring a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth shifts. Want more power? The Elantra N Line packs a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the Sentra offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. Both sedans use front-wheel drive.
The standard Elantra hits 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, with the Sentra trailing at 8.9 seconds. Quarter-mile times tell a similar story with Elantra's 16.3 seconds versus Sentra's 17 seconds. Transmission choices differ too — the Sentra offers only a CVT while the Elantra provides more drivetrain options for Texas roads. The N Line's sportier suspension also makes those twisty roads north of McKinney a lot more fun.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Fuel economy matters to many drivers. The base Elantra gets an EPA-estimated 32 mpg city and 41 mpg highway, while the Sentra manages 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. That 2-mpg edge might seem tiny, but it adds up fast. That means fewer fill-ups and more money staying in your wallet rather than going to the pump.
The Elantra's true advantage is its hybrid option. The Blue trim achieves an eye-popping 51 mpg city and 58 mpg highway — numbers the Sentra can't match since Nissan offers no hybrid variant in its lineup. Even the sportier Elantra N Line offers decent mileage at 28 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 31 mpg combined. Whether you prioritize maximum efficiency or power, this gives you more flexibility. Additionally, both cars use stop-start technology to reduce fuel waste while idling.
Interior and Comfort
Style-wise, these sedans differ dramatically: the Elantra sports bold, sharp angles, while the Sentra adopts flowing, classic lines. The Elantra wins on space with 99.4 cubic feet for passengers versus the Sentra's 96.1. Back-seat passengers also get 38 inches of legroom in the Elantra compared to just 34.9 in the Sentra. Tall drivers might prefer the Sentra up front, though — its 43.8 inches of legroom tops the Elantra's 42.3.
These sedans offer similar amounts of trunk space, with the Sentra's 14.3 cubic feet barely edging the Elantra's 14.2. Both fit groceries easily and offer 60/40-split seats for larger loads. As for tech, the Elantra's base 8-inch touch screen beats the Sentra's 7-inch one, with the Elantra offering up to a 10.3-inch screen on higher trims. Each model is packed with convenient features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Upper trims add heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and sunroofs. For brutal Texas summers, available cooling seats in both models prove invaluable.
Safety and Reliability
Both sedans offer key driver aids, including forward collision warning, automatic braking, and lane departure warning. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave both models five-star overall ratings. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests show the Elantra earned “Good” ratings across all tests, including side impacts. While the Sentra did well, it received “Acceptable” in that key side test. Both will protect you and your passengers on Texas roads, but the Elantra holds a slight edge.
For reliability, U.S. News rated both 86/100. Hyundai's excellent warranty includes five-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage. Nissan only offers three-year/36,000-mile basic and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain protection. This matters when parts fail, such as air conditioning in July heat or transmission issues in year 8.
Which Fits Your Needs Better?
Comparing these sedans shows that each offers unique strengths for different kinds of drivers. The Elantra wins with multiple engine options, better mileage, roomier rear seats, and a superior warranty package. It fits efficiency-minded drivers who value cutting-edge tech and long-term reliability.
The Sentra offers solid ride quality, excellent craftsmanship, comprehensive safety features, and a peppy base engine that feels zippy around town. Its generous front-seat space and more classic styling appeal to many buyers who prefer a more subdued look. The suspension also handles potholes and construction zones with surprising smoothness.
Test-Drive the 2025 Hyundai Elantra Today
When deciding between the 2025 Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Sentra, consider what matters most to you and your specific driving needs. With remarkably similar pricing between comparable trims, the warranty difference could potentially save thousands later when cars start showing their age. Try both cars yourself and test them on actual Plano roads with your daily driving routes. Ready to make your choice? Visit our Huffines Hyundai Plano dealership, and we'll help you find your perfect match and provide expert guidance through the selection process.
